Why you must include giloy in your diet and the right way to have it

After the pandemic took the world by storm, the Indian herb ‘Giloy’, also called Amrita, gained global renown. The heart-shaped leaf-bearing herb has numerous benefits and was specially recommended by the Ministry of Ayush for covid-19 patients following which it was widely consumed in the form of tablets, syrups and at times naturally. The herb is very versatile and all parts of it are used as medicines in Ayurveda and the stem is considered to be the storehouse of a maximum number of health benefits. Here are some of the most widely acknowledged benefits of giloy.

Drinking fresh giloy juice helps to manage immunity and curb fever because of its antipyretic properties. Antipyretic refers to the virtue of controlling heat and reducing it. Giloy manages the amount of heat in the body thereby curbing fevers.

The bitter taste of giloy helps diabetic patients to manage and control their blood glucose levels. In addition to this, it also helps in managing diabetes-related complications such as ulcers, wounds, kidney damage due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Since giloy also aids weight loss, it automatically helps weight management which is key to overall good health, especially for diabetics.

Giloy tablets, kadha or powdered giloy can also help to control skin problems. It helps remove toxins from the body and refresh the skin. Apply giloy leaf paste to the face to accelerate the wound healing process by increasing collagen production and skin regeneration.

Regular intake of giloy during dengue helps regulate temperature due to its antipyretic properties and also strengthens the immune system. The principal problem during dengue, which is a decreased platelet count, is also solved by consuming giloy for it helps in increasing the platelet count. It is thus scientifically proven to be categorically effective in treating dengue fever.

Even though giloy has multiple benefits and is no less than a wonder herb, it also has some side effects, especially for people who are already on medication or are suffering from severe health conditions such as auto-immune diseases. To ensure that the medication does more good than harm, keep the following side-effects in mind while consuming the herb:

Even though it may prove to be beneficial for a lot of bodily functions, especially digestive ones but giloy can sometimes cause constipation in some people it is therefore advised to consume it in moderation. If you notice any changes in your bowel movement after consuming giloy, do consult your physician.

Since giloy is considered to be the ultimate immunity booster, it can at times activate the immune system too much and auto-immune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can get triggered. Patients with such diseases must consult a medical professional.

To control and manage diabetes, giloy is a good and effective alternative. But if you’re already on medication for diabetes, you should consult your physician before taking any giloy supplements as it may lead to a drastic drop in your blood sugar levels.

Experts suggest that consuming giloy can cause complications during pregnancy and lactation. Even though there has not been any medical evidence supporting this claim yet, it is better to avoid its consumption as a precaution.