Tinospora cordifolia

Tinospora cordifolia, also known as Guduchi or Giloy, is a herbaceous vine of the family Menispermaceae native to the tropical regions of India, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. Its roots, stems, and leaves are used in Ayurvedic medicine for their various medicinal properties.

Description

Tinospora cordifolia is a large, deciduous, extensively-spreading, climbing shrub with several elongated twining branches. Leaves are heart-shaped and flowers are yellow or greenish-yellow. The plant bears fruits which are pea-sized, fleshy and ripe to red in color.

Medicinal Uses

In Ayurveda, Tinospora cordifolia is considered a divine herb with supreme healing properties. It is used to enhance the immune system and body's resistance against infections. It is also used in the treatment of fever, jaundice, skin diseases, and to improve digestion. The plant is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic properties.

Chemical Composition

The plant contains a variety of chemical compounds including alkaloids, steroids, diterpenoid lactones, aliphatics, and glycosides. The stem contains the alkaloid Berberine, which is known for its diverse pharmacological effects.

Cultivation

Tinospora cordifolia is a hardy and drought-tolerant vine. It grows well in almost all types of soils, including poor and stony soils. It can be propagated by stem cuttings.

Research

Numerous studies have been conducted on the medicinal properties of Tinospora cordifolia. These studies have confirmed its immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties.

See Also

• Ayurveda
• Medicinal plants
• Herbal medicine