GUDUCHILatin name: Tinospora cordifolia
English name: Heartleaf moonseed
Sanskrit/Indian name: Guduchi, gulancha
Other names: Makabuhay (Philippines); Brotowali, Andawali, Putrawali (Indonesia); Boraphet (Thailand)
Medicinal parts used: Stem and Roots
Guduchi is a native plant from tropical and subtropical regions of India. It is also known to be found in Far East, primarily in rainforests. The plant is a climbing shrub with heart-shaped leaves. It is an important part of the Ayurvedic category of Rasayanas, or rejuvenative tonics.
Guduchi is one of history's most famous adaptogens. An adaptogen supports normal immune function and the body's natural response to daily stress. Traditional herbalists would say that adaptogens are plants that "bring the body back into balance."
Therapeutic use:
* The plant is used to build the immune system and the resistance of the body towards various infections.
* The stem is used in dyspepsia, fevers and urinary diseases.
* It has also been found to help protect the liver and reduce mucus.
* It has powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic and anti-allergic properties.