4 Possible Side Effects Of Giloy You Must Know

Giloy is an immune-boosting herb known for its many health benefits! However, if you have ever wondered about the side effects of giloy, then this article would clear it for you! An essential herb in many ayurvedic medicines and treatments, giloy has become a common name in many households. Different parts of the plant are used to treat a wide range of infections and health issues like diarrhea and diabetes. However, one must also be aware of its dosage and side effects! Read on to learn if giloy is safe for everyone and how to avoid its possible risks and side effects.

Giloy – A Brief

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In Sanskrit, Giloy is known as ‘Amrita’, which means ‘the root of immortality’, because of its abundance of medicinal properties. Capsules are made from the pure herbal extract that is obtained from the plant, which has the botanical name, Tinospora cordifolia.

It may have anti-pyreticⁱ  XDrugs that are used to lower body temperature in a state of fever by regulating the hypothalamus and inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. , anti-arthriticⁱ  XA class of drugs used to treat arthritis symptoms such as inflammation, pain, tenderness, and joint deformity. , antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancerous properties. It aids in digestion and is also well-known as a highly effective blood purifier. It may be used to manage many ailments such as cardiac debilityⁱ  XA condition that causes the heart muscles to weaken, increasing the chances of other cardiac conditions such as cardiomyopathy. , gout, anemia, leprosyⁱ  XA serious bacterial disease causing skin ulcers, nerve damage, and muscle weakness. It can cause disability if left untreated. , jaundice, as well as other serious diseases like cancer (1). In recent times, Giloy has become hugely popular due to its ability to manage symptoms of swine flu.

All About Side Effects Of Giloy

There are no serious side-effects that occur due to the short-term consumption of Giloy. It is not known how safe it is when it is used on a long-term basis, that is, 8 weeks or more. It is a natural and safe herbal remedy that is used to treat a large number of health problems, from the simplest to life-threatening ones. Here are some side effects of Giloy use:

1. Constipation:

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In some cases, the use of Giloy can cause constipation. The problem can be caused by using Giloy in any form. Whether you take it as a juice or a supplement capsule, this is one of the serious side effects of giloy that you should consider keeping in mind. It may also cause stomach irritation (2).

2. Low Levels Of Blood Sugar:

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Giloy may reduce blood sugar levels. If you are a diabetic, your blood sugar levels should be regularly monitored and you should use this herb with caution. You should consult your doctor before using it, as the doses of the medications prescribed for diabetes may need to be adjusted or changed (3), (4).

3. Increase In Autoimmune Disease Symptoms:

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Giloy may over-stimulate the immune system and make it more active. This can result in an increase of symptoms of autoimmune diseases such as lupusⁱ  XAn inflammatory autoimmune disorder affecting the tissues and usually triggered by exposure to the sun, infections, and certain drugs. (SLE or systemic lupus erythematosus), multiple sclerosisⁱ  XA central nervous system disorder where the immune system depletes the protective cover of the nerves causing inflammation and scars. , and rheumatoid arthritisⁱ  XA chronic inflammatory condition mainly affecting the joints of the body caused by immune dysfunction. . If you suffer from any of these conditions, it is best to avoid the use of Giloy.

4. Interference With Blood Sugar Control:

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Giloy may have an effect on the blood sugar levels in your body (5), (6). Hence, there is a chance that it could interfere with the control of blood sugar during surgery, as well as afterward. It is best to stop taking this herb in any form 2 weeks prior to scheduled surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does giloy damage the liver?

Giloy may cause liver damage in some people (7).

Can giloy damage the kidneys?

No. The herbal extracts of giloy may help prevent kidney stone formation (8).

Is giloy hot or cold in nature?

Giloy is cold in nature.

Sources

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Tracy TredouxDipION, mBANT, CNHC, AFMCP

   

Tracy is a fully qualified nutritional therapist with 10 years of experience specializing in gut and immune health. She is a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and uses her knowledge to address the root causes of illness rather than merely manage the symptoms. She motivates and supports her clients along their journey to achieve peak health and wellness through personalized dietary...more

Tanya ChoudharyHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Tanya is an ISSA certified Specialist in Fitness & Nutrition. She specializes in writing articles on ingredients that benefit skin, hair, and health. She believes in the right health and lifestyle practices and strives to promote the same to everyone around her. She finds purpose in creating authentic and useful content that can impact people's health in better ways. In...more