Giloy: Tinospora cordifolia, Traditional Medicine and Botanical Features

UPSC Relevance: Medicinal Plants | AYUSH | Biodiversity

Scientific Name

Tinospora cordifolia

Family

Menispermaceae

Common Names

  • Giloy.

  • Guduchi.

Characteristics

  • Large climbing shrub.

  • Heart-shaped leaves.

  • Common in tropical India.

Traditional Uses

Used in Ayurvedic preparations for various traditional indications.

Important Scientific Point

Traditional use does not automatically imply proven effectiveness for every claimed disease, and herbal products can also have adverse effects or interact with medicines.

Prelims Pointer:
Giloy = Tinospora cordifolia.