Ayurveda, the traditional Indian medical system, introduced us to the many wonders of nature.
For example, research discovered that the giloy plant (Tinospora Cordifolia) can be used to naturally treat various diseases and conditions. Some of them are fever, gout, urinary problems, Hansen’s disease, colds and coughs, asthma, jaundice, eye problems, and skin infections.
Many need help to understand the importance of Giloy. But, even if they do, they might wonder if it’s healthy for managing chronic conditions like diabetes.
This article explores how giloy is suitable for diabetic patients and why it should be introduced into a diabetic’s diet.
What is Giloy: the basics
Giloy, a member of the Menispermaceae botanical family, is a climbing shrub native to India. However, you can also find the herb growing in China.
People generally use all parts of the plant, but the stem contains the most beneficial compounds. Research revealed various compounds in giloy, including terpenoids, alkaloids, lignans, and steroids.
Terpenoids
Terpenoids, active compounds in plants, are known for their distinctive flavor, taste and color. In addition, these compounds possess antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties.
Alkaloids
Humans have used plant alkaloids since ancient times as poisons and treatments for various diseases. These compounds are incredibly potent and a source of bitterness in some plants.
It is fascinating to reflect on the history and uses of alkaloids in human society. They also became the basis of many medicines we use today.
Lignans
Substances known as lignans are mainly found in fibrous plants. They potentially block the growth of microbes such as fungi, viruses and other pathogens.
Additionally, they may also protect cells from oxidative damage due to their purported anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Steroid
Plants containing steroid compounds can potentially lower blood cholesterol levels. In addition, they also provide benefits for skin health and wound healing.
Giloy for Diabetes – How does it work?
Several experts believe that giloy extract may have hypoglycemic and antidiabetic properties. Insulin is a peptide hormone that helps regulate blood sugar.
Giloy, the Ayurvedic herb, can help the body naturally create insulin, which can be beneficial in managing diabetes. Additionally, Giloy may improve the digestive system and gut health, helping in the management of diabetes. This is because digestive health determines how efficiently our bodies absorb nutrients from food.
Giloy may be effective in reducing insulin resistance, improving glucose utilization, reducing oxidative stress, and increasing antioxidant status of cells.
All of this could potentially lower blood sugar. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects and understand the mechanisms by which giloy may help control blood sugar.
What does current research say?
Research suggests that the heart-shaped leafy herb, giloy, offers many benefits.
The bitter-tasting herb is beneficial for diabetic patients as it helps manage and control blood sugar levels. Giloy may also help with weight management, which is essential for people with diabetes. In addition to consuming raw giloy, one can consume it in many forms, such as tablets and syrups.
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, Giloy can help manage complications associated with diabetes, such as ulcers, sores, and kidney damage. Research also show that giloy has a protective role against inflammatory conditions.
A recent to study found that giloy has strong anti-diabetic properties. Its qualities help the body to burn excess glucose and hence lower blood sugar levels. In addition, it is a hypoglycemic agent, which helps reduce blood sugar.
Note from The Fitness Freak
Giloy is a beneficial herb for diabetes since it is a hypoglycemic agent that lowers blood sugar. In addition, its anti-diabetic effects promote insulin secretion. Additionally, the high fiber content slows the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, helping to regulate blood sugar.
How to use Giloy for diabetes?
There are several ways to consume giloy for diabetes management:
Giloy juice
Extracting the juice from the stem of the giloy plant and consuming it on an empty stomach every morning is an easy way to use this herb for diabetes management. The herb has hypoglycemic and anti-diabetic properties, which can help reduce blood sugar levels.
Giloy decoction
Take pieces of giloy stem and boil them in water. Filter the water and let it cool. Drink it on an empty stomach or before meals.
Giloy tablets or capsules
Giloy supplements come in tablet and capsule form. However, one should follow the dosage prescribed by a medical professional.
Giloy and Neem juice
Mixing giloy and neem juice in equal proportions and consuming them daily can bring the best results. This is because both are known for their anti-diabetic properties.
Giloy Blows
To make giloy shots, start by boiling water. Then add a stalk of giloy, a piece of ginger and 2-3 tulsi leaves. Finally, add black pepper, cloves, and lime juice, and it’s ready to drink.
Potential Side Effects of Giloy
Although giloy is generally safe when taken in the right amounts, one may experience side effects if consuming too much giloy or taking it for a long time.
Some potential side effects of giloy consumption include:
Upset stomach
Too much giloy juice or decoction can lead to stomach discomfort, nausea or diarrhea.
Hypoglycemia
People with diabetes should exercise caution when consuming giloy, as it can lower blood sugar levels to dangerous levels. Additionally, people who are already taking medication to regulate their blood sugar levels should pay special attention and monitor their levels closely when consuming this herb.
Interactions with other drugs
Giloy may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and immunosuppressive medications. Therefore, people on medication should consult a doctor before consuming Giloy.
Pregnancy and breast feeding
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not take giloy due to insufficient data on its safety in these populations. Therefore, it is better to refrain from taking it.
Allergic reactions
If you are allergic to giloy, you may experience skin rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing after consuming it. If this happens, stop using the herb and see a doctor immediately.
Note from The Fitness Freak
It is essential to remember that self-medication with giloy is not advised. Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor before using it for diabetes management. In addition, it is advisable to monitor blood sugar before and after ingestion of giloy. Giloy can also cause your blood sugar level to drop too low, which is dangerous. Therefore, if you are using giloy to control your diabetes, talk to your doctor and take your medications as directed.
Conclusion
For centuries, Indian Ayurvedic medicine has used giloy for various medicinal purposes. Taking giloy can help boost your immune system and regulate your blood sugar.
As long as you follow product label directions, consuming giloy is generally safe. However, it is always beneficial to consult a medical professional before taking herbal supplements.
Diet and lifestyle changes are key to managing diabetes. HealthifyPro 2.0 has certified nutritionists dedicated to helping you improve your health.
Coaches provide expert advice to help you manage your diabetes and live a healthier life. So if you want a holistic approach to diabetes management, speak to a HealthifyMe nutritionist today.
Sources of support
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https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34509604/
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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6827274/
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