Immortal Guduchi

  • Jaspal Bajwa
  • India
  • Jul 18, 2014

 

 


Legends of magical foods that gave man the power to live forever or to bring the dead back to life have held sway over our imaginations for generations. In Greek mythology  there is a mention of ‘ambrosia’ - a food or drink of the Gods, which could confer immortality to whoever consumed it. Over centuries the quest for this magical potion has led many a brave adventurer to scour the far corners of the earth. Could the answer to this quest lie in an ancient herb that was highly revered by the practitioners of an ancient art of healing?  In Ayurveda there are a few herbs that are referred to as ‘rasayana’ – meaning, a tonic having health-supporting properties that can lengthen a lifespan. In the present day the term ‘adaptogen’ alludes to foods that help to increase the body’s resistance to stress, anxiety and illness, by strengthening the immune system. A highly revered herb in Ayurveda is Guduchi – ‘the one that protects’. Some texts refer to it as Amrit – literally, ‘the immortal one’. This uniquely potent and versatile herb has a rich history in the Indian sub-continent, where it has been used for thousands of years. It is considered to be one of the best rasayanas (or adaptogens), and has been used to address a large array of diseases. It promotes vitality and longevity by balancing all the three ‘doshas’. The bitter, astringent and warming qualities reduce Kapha; Vata is reduced by its sweet post-digestive qualities. And although its heat can burn up the negative ‘amma’ (accumulated toxins), it does not aggravate Pitta.


Tip of the Week

 

Adaptogens are a unique class of healing plants: they help balance, restore and protect the body. They work a bit like an air-conditioner thermostat, which adjusts itself in sync with the variations in the room temperature. Adaptogens counteract stress by supporting the adrenal function. They can boost energy without causing over-stimulation. Importantly, they can enhance the ability of each cell in the body to eliminate toxins and access more energy, by helping to utilise oxygen more efficiently. Other than Guduchi, there are several other important adaptogens - such as Asian Ginseng, Ashwagandha, Brahmi (Bacopa Monieri), Rhodiola Rosea, Holy Basil, Astragalus and Cordycep mushrooms.


 

Nature’s Wonder Food of the Week  : Guduchi or Tinospora Cordifolia 

All parts of the Guduchi plant – roots, leaves and stem - are important. The common form is ‘Guduchi Satva’, which is a traditionally dried and powdered starchy extract from the stem. In traditional medicine, Guduchi is seen as an incredibly versatile herb. Potentially it can be used for a large array of treatments – such as autoimmune diseases, colds and flu, bronchitis, liver damage, hepatitis, jaundice, arthritis, gout, dyspepsia, kidney disorders, heart disease, eye diseases, cancer, anemia, diabetes, tuberculosis , skin disorders (psoriasis, eczema), hemorrhoids, worms and diarrhoea. Underlying this is its role as a blood purifier, helping to remove toxins from the body. As an immunity-modulator, not only does it boost the immune system, it also helps accelerate convalescence from severe illness and general debility. It is often recommended as a stomachic, to stimulate bile secretion, allay fever and prevent vomiting, and even as a diuretic. Guduchi can help keep uncontrolled blood sugar levels in check. Further, it acts as a hepato-protective, by rejuvenating the liver and helping to prevent fibrosis. It can also be of help in managing cancer- especially as an adjuvant, by managing the side-effects of chemotherapy. The anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory properties of Guduchi help ameliorate chronic skin disorders such as psoriasis or eczema. It is also very helpful in increasing mobility in conditions like arthritis , gout and osteoarthritis; it helps to reduce pain and the swelling of joints. Guduchi is a potent immunity booster. It expels toxins from the body, rejuvenates it at the tissue level and helps to increase the number of white blood cells.

Despite the huge body of evidence built up through the use of Guduchi over centuries, which extolls its multifold benefits, modern research studies are only now beginning to validate this clinically. Preliminary animal and in vitro studies are very promising; however, studies on humans in large enough numbers are yet to be conclusive. The major compounds in Guduchi that are drawing interest are alkaloids, diterpenoids, lactones, glycosides, steroids, phenolics, polysaccharides and a few others.

 

For Education purposes only; always consult a Healthcare Practitioner for medical conditions


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