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Traditional evidenceAdaptogens

Giloy

Also called: Guduchi, Tinospora cordifolia, amrita

A traditional Ayurvedic herb for immunity. Use short courses only: liver injury has been reported.

Typical amount
As per label; short courses only
Best time
After meals
Food
With food
Typical course
4 weeks, then review
Upper limit
Avoid long unsupervised use
Is it right for me?

Where to buy

3 products

What is giloy?

Giloy is a climbing plant used in Ayurveda for fevers and immunity. Its use rose sharply during COVID-19. Indian studies since then have reported cases of liver injury, often in people with autoimmune tendencies, so it should be used briefly and with care.

Forms. Tablets (ghanvati), capsules, juice and powder.

What it may help with

Evidence grade

Strong: several good human trials. Moderate: some trials, mixed results. Limited: small or early studies. Traditional: long use, little trial evidence.

Safety and interactions

Side effects
Liver injury has been reported. Avoid with liver disease, autoimmune disease or immunosuppressants. May lower blood sugar.
Who should be careful
Liver injury reported; autoimmune disease, immunosuppressants, liver disease: avoid; diabetes medicines: doctor first
Medicines
Ask your doctor first if you take diabetes medicine. Avoid if you take steroids or immunosuppressants. Ask your doctor first if you take pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Stop and call a doctor if
Yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, loss of appetite

Food sources

Not a food.

Common questions

Is giloy safe?

For short courses in healthy adults it's usually tolerated, but liver injury has been reported. Stop if you notice yellow eyes or dark urine.

How long can I take it?

Keep courses short, a few weeks, unless a doctor advises otherwise.

Can I take it with diabetes medicine?

Ask your doctor, because it may lower blood sugar further.

For information only, not medical advice. Prices and links are checked by hand and can change; we may earn a small commission on some links. This plan is based on your answers and is not a medical diagnosis. It does not replace advice from your doctor. If you take medicines or have a health condition, check with your doctor before starting any supplement.