Hour 77 Ayurveda – Medicinal Herbs VIII

Giloy and Licorice

12. Giloy (Amrita) – Tinospora cordifolia

Introduction:
Giloy, known as Amrita in Sanskrit, translates to “divine elixir” or “nectar,” reflecting its rejuvenating and therapeutic properties. It is an effective herb used in Ayurveda to balance all three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), supporting a healthy, balanced body and mind. The plant’s stem and leaves are primarily used in herbal formulations.

Rasa: Bitter, Sweet

Guna: Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)

Virya: Heating (Ushna)

Vipaka: Sweet (Madhura)

Karma: Balances Vata and Kapha, increases Pitta, boosts immunity (Rasayana), detoxifying (Vishodhana).

• Vata: Balances Vata by pacifying its dry and light qualities.
• Pitta: Reduces excess heat and acidity.
• Kapha: Helps reduce excess fat and phlegm accumulation.

Therapeutic Properties:

• Antipyretic: Giloy has the ability to reduce fever, making it a valuable herb for managing various febrile conditions.
• Hepatoprotective: Protects the liver from damage and enhances liver function, useful in conditions like jaundice.
• Cardiac Tonic: Strengthens the heart and supports cardiovascular health.
• Carminative: Helps in relieving gas and bloating.
• Digestive: Stimulates digestion and balances the digestive fire (Agni).
• Rejuvenative: Giloy nourishes all the seven Dhatus (tissues) and rejuvenates the body.
• Blood Sugar: It aids in the liquefaction of fat and phlegm, making it useful for managing diabetes.

Remedies:

• Fever Management:
  A decoction of Giloy (40 ml) with 2 pinches of long pepper powder and 1 teaspoon of honey is taken on an empty stomach twice daily to manage fever.
• Powder Form:
  The dried stem powder (3 grams) can be mixed with hot water or honey and consumed similarly to the decoction for fever and digestive issues.

13. Licorice (Yashtimadhu) – Glycyrrhiza glabra

Introduction:
Licorice, known as Yashtimadhu or Mulethi in Ayurveda, is a sweet-tasting herb with cooling properties. The root of licorice is used therapeutically and is recognized for its diverse medicinal benefits. It is beneficial in balancing Vata and Pitta Doshas while increasing Kapha due to its heavy and sweet nature.

Rasa: Sweet

Guna: Heavy (Guru), Oily (Snigdha)

Virya: Cooling (Shita)

Vipaka: Sweet (Madhura)

Karma: Balances Pitta and Vata, increases Kapha, soothes respiratory issues (Shothahara), cooling and demulcent (Snehana).

Dosha Effect:

• Vata: Balances Vata, especially in conditions of dryness and coldness.
• Pitta: Soothes excess Pitta, reducing inflammation and irritation.
• Kapha: Increases Kapha due to its heavy nature.

Therapeutic Properties:

• Hepatoprotective: Licorice supports liver function and protects the liver from toxins.
• Antiviral: It helps in fighting infections caused by viruses.
• Anti-ulcer: It supports the healing of ulcers in the digestive system.
• Antibiotic: Exhibits antibiotic properties, supporting immune health.
• Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals and prevents cellular damage.
• Expectorant: It helps in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract.
• Voice Enhancer: Licorice is used to improve voice quality, particularly in hoarseness or loss of voice.
• Mild Laxative: It supports healthy bowel movements and alleviates constipation.

Remedies:

• Voice and Throat Relief:
  For hoarseness or a weak voice, mix 4 grams of licorice root powder with half a teaspoon of ghee and consume on an empty stomach three times a day.
• Burning Sensations:
  For burning sensations, mix 4 grams of licorice root powder with 100 ml of warm milk and drink it to soothe Pitta imbalances.
• Excessive White Discharge:
  Mix 4 grams of licorice root powder with 80 ml of rice water (Mand) and 5 grams of rock sugar. Consume this mixture twice a day on an empty stomach. Rice water can be prepared by cooking 1 spoon of rice in 14 spoons of water.
• Pitta-Related Thirst and Bleeding Disorders:
  A cold infusion of licorice root powder is beneficial in treating Pitta imbalances, helping in wound healing, improving complexion, and enhancing eyesight.
• Licorice Face Pack:
  To improve skin texture, mix licorice root powder with red sandalwood powder and coconut milk, apply it as a face pack, and leave it for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water.