GUDUCHI (TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA)
GUDUCHI (TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA) Taxonomic Classification:
Family - Menispermaceae Genus - Tinospora Species - Tinospora cordifolia
Tinospora cordifolia, commonly known as Guduchi or Amrita, holds a significant position in the Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is documented in various ancient texts for its therapeutic applications in conditions such as jaundice, fever, diabetes, and skin disorders, among others.
Plant Constituents: A diverse array of natural compounds has been identified and isolated from Tinospora cordifolia. These compounds belong to various chemical classes, including alkaloids, diterpenoid lactones, glycosides, sesquiterpenoids, aliphatic compounds, phenolic compounds, polysaccharides, and steroids. Specific examples of these steroids include tinosporine, tinosporide, tinosporaside, cordifolide, cordifol, heptacosanol, clerodane furano diterpene, diterpenoid furanolactone tinosporidine, columbin, and β-sitosterol.
Nutritional Profile of Guduchi: Guduchi possesses a notable nutritional composition, characterized by a high content of dietary fiber, approximately 15.9%. It also contains proteins (ranging from 4.5% to 11.2%), a substantial amount of carbohydrates (61.66%), and a low amount of fat (3.1%). Its nutritional value is calculated to be 292.54 calories per 100 grams. Mineral analysis reveals high levels of potassium (0.845%) and chromium (0.006%), along with significant amounts of iron (0.28%) and calcium (0.131%).
Traditional Therapeutic Applications: Traditionally, this plant has been utilized for various health concerns, including fever, vomiting, diabetes, jaundice, anemia, excessive urination, and skin ailments. In Ayurvedic principles, it is recognized as a Medhyarasayana (a substance promoting intellect), a digestive aid, an appetite enhancer, and a carminative for the digestive system. It is also recognized for its potent rejuvenating, neuroprotective, blood sugar lowering, immune-modulating, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Clinical Investigations:
One clinical investigation involved 20 patients diagnosed with infective hepatitis based on clinical assessments and laboratory findings. These patients were administered four tablets, each containing 500mg of T. cordifolia, three times daily with water for a period of four weeks. A comparison of the patients' condition before and after the treatment (n=20) indicated that the administration of T. cordifolia (Guduchi) played a significant role in alleviating the symptoms and normalizing the altered functions of the liver.
A forward-looking, randomly assigned, double-blind study with a placebo control group was conducted on patients with breast cancer. Consenting breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant therapy with the CMF regimen were enrolled and randomly assigned to either receive the drug or a placebo. The findings from this study suggest that T. cordifolia may offer some protective effect against chemotherapy-induced leucopenia in cancer patients.
Product Information:
Botanical/ Scientific Name: Tinospora cordifolia Part Used: Stem Identification: Gravimetry Heavy Metal Content: Arsenic: Not more than 20 ppm Lead: Not more than 1 ppm Microbiological Profile: As per JPN Food Regulation