Abstract :
The global reliance on herbal medicines continues to expand, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating that nearly 80% of the world’s population depends on traditional remedies for primary health care needs. Among the vast array of medicinal plants, Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers, commonly known as Giloy or Guduchi, has been historically revered in the Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems of medicine for its adaptogenic, immunomodulatory, and rejuvenating properties. Ancient Ayurvedic literature such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita refer to Giloy as “Amrita,” meaning nectar of immortality, and highlight its usage in treating fever, metabolic disorders, and liver ailments.Modern scientific investigations have identified a rich phytochemical composition, including alkaloids like berberine and magnoflorine, diterpenoid lactones such as tinosporin and columbin, steroids like ?-sitosterol and stigmasterol, flavonoids such as quercetin and kaempferol, and polysaccharides including arabinogalactan, which contribute to its therapeutic profile. Experimental models have confirmed its immunostimulatory effects by enhancing macrophage activity, hepatoprotective potential by normalizing liver enzymes, antidiabetic properties through insulin sensitization, anti-inflammatory effects via COX-2 inhibition, and antioxidant capacity through scavenging reactive oxygen species.Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy in chronic fever management, improving glycemic indices in diabetic patients, alleviating rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, and aiding recovery in viral infections such as dengue and hepatitis B. Recent integrative approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic have included Giloy formulations as supportive therapy, with evidence of reduced fatigue and immune enhancement.While generally considered safe when used appropriately, reports of hepatotoxicity associated with adulterated products and excessive dosage underscore the need for regulated formulations and evidence-based guidelines. This review consolidates both traditional knowledge and contemporary scientific findings, advocating for standardized extraction protocols, larger clinical trials, and molecular-level research to establish Giloy’s role as an effective Phytotherapeutic agent in modern medicine.
Keyword :
Tinospora cordifolia, Immunomodulation, Adaptogen, Herbal drug, Antioxidant