Giloy is a herb that has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional system of medicine in India. Giloy is also called guduchi, amrita, or the root of immortality, because it has many health benefits and healing properties. Giloy is a climbing shrub that grows on other trees, and its stem is the most useful part for medicinal purposes.
Giloy has various plant compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, anticancer, and antidiabetic effects. These compounds can help protect the body from various diseases and boost the immune system. Some of the potential health benefits of giloy are:
Fever: Giloy can help reduce fever and prevent complications from infections like dengue, malaria, and swine flu. Giloy is also a natural antipyretic, meaning it can lower body temperature.
Digestion: Giloy can help improve digestion and treat bowel-related issues like constipation, diarrhea, and dysentery. Giloy can also help prevent stomach ulcers and liver damage.
Diabetes: Giloy can help lower blood sugar levels and enhance insulin production in the body. Giloy can also prevent diabetic complications like kidney problems and nerve damage.
Skin and hair: Giloy can help improve skin health and treat skin infections, wounds, and allergies. Giloy can also promote hair growth and prevent hair loss.
Cancer: Giloy can help prevent and treat cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and enhancing the effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Giloy can also reduce the side effects of cancer treatment like nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
Immunity: Giloy can help boost the immune system and fight off infections and diseases. Giloy can also modulate the immune response and prevent autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
How to use giloy
Giloy can be consumed in various forms, such as juice, powder, capsules, or decoction. Giloy can also be combined with other herbs like amla, neem, tulsi, or ashwagandha for enhanced benefits. However, the dosage and duration of giloy intake may vary depending on the individual’s health condition, age, and weight. Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using giloy.
Precautions and side effects of giloy
Giloy is generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people. However, some people may experience some side effects or allergic reactions from giloy, such as:
Low blood sugar: Giloy can lower blood sugar levels, which may interfere with diabetes medication or cause hypoglycemia in some people. Therefore, people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels and adjust their medication accordingly when using giloy.
Low blood pressure: Giloy can lower blood pressure, which may cause dizziness, fainting, or heart problems in some people. Therefore, people with low blood pressure or heart conditions should be cautious when using giloy.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Giloy is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, as it may affect the fetus or the baby. Therefore, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using giloy or consult their doctor before doing so.
Autoimmune diseases: Giloy can modulate the immune system, which may worsen the symptoms of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or multiple sclerosis. Therefore, people with autoimmune diseases should consult their doctor before using giloy or avoid it altogether.
Surgery: Giloy can affect blood sugar and blood pressure levels, which may interfere with surgery or anesthesia. Therefore, people who are scheduled for surgery should stop using giloy at least two weeks before the surgery or as directed by their doctor.
Summary
Giloy is a herb that has many health benefits and healing properties. It can help treat and prevent various diseases and conditions, such as fever, digestion, diabetes, skin and hair, cancer, and immunity. Giloy can be consumed in different forms, such as juice, powder, capsules, or decoction. However, giloy may also have some side effects or interactions with certain medications or health conditions. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor before using giloy.
Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)
Internal Medicine Specialist
Kify Hospital
Danavaipeta
Rajahmundry
Phone : 85000 23456
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