Guduchi extract 20:1 | Tinospora cordifolia

Guduchi extract 20:1 | Tinospora cordifolia

Properties: Guduchi literally means “the one who protects the body”. Long time ago, Tinospora cordifolia acquired this name due to its unique combination of properties – it detoxifies, tones, and regulates the immunity of the organism. Modern research evidence confirms the validity of this title. 

The liver is the key body tissue responsible for detoxification. Even when the diet is healthy and the environment clean, this organ stays pretty busy – not all the metabolites are easy to remove. Thus, it is extremely important to keep the liver in good condition. Guduchi supplementation helps tremendously in this regard. It is proven that it protects the liver from the adversarial influence of many toxins. Moreover, it intensifies the production of enzymes that take part in the detoxification of the organism. Thus, the effects of T.cordifolia supplement on the liver are twofold. Firstly, we protect it from damage and secondly, we support its main function. 

Another unique aspect of this plant is its effect on the immune system. On one hand, it stimulates immune activity by increasing the production of some lymphocytes and macrophages. On the other hand, it has antihistamine properties, thus preventing an overshoot of the immune response. Perhaps it is the combination of these effects that makes guduchi especially effective against… runny nose. This ailment, although not extremely dangerous, can significantly impair the quality of life. It can be caused by infections, allergies, or both factors combined. This last possibility is the most common. See, when the mucous membrane is irritated by histamine secreted due to an allergic reaction, its protective abilities decrease. Thus, the pathogens have an easier entry into the system. This mechanism works the other way around too. An infection often leads to a rise of histamine production, and in turn – an allergic reaction. That’s why T.cordifolia is so efficient against runny nose – it deals with both its causes simultaneously.  

Since time immemorial, Tinospora cordifolia has been known as an elixir that supports the general psychophysical well-being. Ancient shamans have been aware of its nourishing and revitalizing properties. By the way, revitalizing literally means “bringing back to life”. This is reflected in a legend, according to which guduchi (also known as “amrita” – the god’s nectar) is a gift from Hindi god Indra, who sent it to Earthlings in order to revive his followers. How did guduchi earn its supernatural fame? Perhaps it came from observation of its effects, whose causes we only begin to uncover now. As it turns out, this “blue potion” supports the production and activity of all four basic neurotransmitters. In a nutshell: acetylcholine supports the cognitive capacities, especially memory; GABA helps to chill out; serotonin brings about a wide smile; dopamine keeps the motivation steady. What a life!

Occurrence: The species Tinospora cordifolia is a large climbing shrub that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. Naturally, it grows in the tropical forests at heights between 300 and 1200 meters over sea level. It is quite common in China, India, Bangladesh, Birma (Myanmar), and Sri Lanka. The shrub spreads rather quickly and reaches up to 15 meters height. Typical for the plant are its long aerial roots, which grow thick and woody over time. They resemble stems, although they lack foliage and thickening in the nodal sections. Its leaves, 10-20 cm long, are heart-shaped and have clear innervation.

In Ayurveda – the traditional Indian medicine, Tinospora cordifolia has been applied since millennia as a tonic that nourishes, revitalizes, and generally supports the whole organism. In classical Ayurvedic texts the plant is mentioned as a remedy for multiple ailments, among them leprosy, asthma, anorexia and diabetes. Nevertheless, most often Tinospora cordifolia is used to soothe the symptoms of allergy and strengthen natural immunity. The Hindus believe that the most valuable climber of Tinospora cordifolia is the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), as these plants work in synergy and enhance each other’s properties.

Biochemistry: The substances to which Tinospora cordifolia owes its properties are alkaloids, diterpenes, polysaccharides and glycosides. The most important of them are: berberine, tinosporin, tinosporide, cordifolide and others. Some of the more attractive ingredients are also choline and glutathione. Apart from them, the plant also contains: fiber, proteins, carbohydrates, fats as well as micro- and macroelements (potassium, iron, calcium, chromium).

Fun fact: Guduchi is known for its seemingly supernatural protective properties. Some are solid, others not so much. For instance, in the case of a snake bite the administration of Tinospora cordifolia won’t do much harm, but is not going to help either. Similarly, having it at home in order to keep the snakes and scorpions away makes as much sense as keeping in the locker a supplement that improves motivation.