Guduchee (Tinospora cordifolia)
Guduchee (Tinospora cordifolia)
Introduction
From
Indian mythology to Ayurveda and modern medicine Guduchee (Tinospora cordifolia) is extolled as a remedy par excellence for
the treatment of many diseases especially those of the liver.
It
has a noble place in the epic Raamaayana: During the war between Raama and
Raawana, to resurrect the army of Raama, Lord Indra gave “amrita” i. e. “divine
nectar” to Raama’s army. The Guduchee plant grew from the few drops of ‘nectar’
that fell on the ground. [1]
From
fever to cancer the herb protects the body from diseases; hence the epithet
Guduchee (the one that protects, the one that acts as a savior from diseases).
Another synonym of the plant is Madhuparnee (the one whose leaves are full of
nectar). When we cut a fresh spring from Guduchee tree and hang it from a cord
in the air; it will continue to grow without any visible or perceptible
nutritional support. It gains its ‘life energy’ from environment. Hence in
Sanskrit it is called ‘Amritaa’ meaning immortal or imperishable! As the plant
confers vitality, vigor and youthful longevity or imparts immortality on any
one who consumes it, the plant is called ‘Amritaa’ (divine nectar of
longevity). The other Sanskrit epithets used for Guduchee are: Chhinnaruhaa/Chhinnodbhawaa
(the plant that grows from the cut side), Watsadini (eaten by grazing animals),
Rasaayanaa (the plant possessing capacity to improve Rasa Dhaatu),
Chakraangi/Chakralakshnaa (having wheel-like appearance), Jwaranaashee/Jwaraari
(potent antipyretic), Wayastha (age-stabilizer, prevents ageing),
Amritasambhawaa (ambrosia) and Bhishakpriyaa (favorite of physicians). [2]
Guduchee has been described
as “one which protects the body”. The word Amritaa is derived from ancient
Hindu scriptures where Amritaa was used to bring the dead back to life and keep
gods from growing ill and old. It for these reasons Guduchee is also referred
to as “nectar of immortality” and “heavenly elixir” [3]
The
name of its genus Tinospora is
derived from the Greek teino which
means “to stretch like a bow” and spora
which means “seed”. Its leaves are heart shaped; hence the name of the species
is cordifolia. [4]
In
Ayurveda Guduchee has long been used as a tonic, vitalizer and as a drug to
treat many ailments. Along with many beneficial properties of Guduchee, the
noted Ayurvedic surgeon Sushruta described it as ‘shukra-shodhana’ meaning
sperm purifier. Its property of imparting vigor and vitality and its
‘shukra-shodhana’ ability are probably misconstrued in the ‘Kaama-Sootra’ as
‘aphrodisiac’. In his translation of the classic text ‘Kaama-Sootra’ in 1883,
Sir Richard Burton writes (free rendition by me): If the juice of fennel
(English: Anise, Marathi: Badeeshepa) and milk are mixed with equal quantities
of ghee, honey, sugar and liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), the mixture
acts like nectar and is said to be sacred, provocative of sexual vigor and
stabilizer of age and life. SS Richard Montgomery Matter refers to Sir Richard
Burton’s aphrodisiac formula: guduchi (Tinospora
cordifolia), pippali-long pepper (Piper
longum) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza
glabra) boiled in milk, honey and sugar has aphrodisiac effect.
Kamasutra-SS
Richard Montgomery Matter
(www.ssrichardmontgomery.com/download/nlink/karmasutra.pdf)
However
Ayurvedic sources express mixed opinion. Some mention it, some don’t.
George
Playfair’s translation of the Indian Materia Medica, Taleef Shereef, 1833 does
mention Guduchee but certainly not as being aphrodisiac!
The
first botanical reference to Guduchee in the English can be found in
Transactions of the Linnean Society of London Volume 13, 1822. [5], [6]
Other Names
Botanical: Tinospora cordifolia (Wild), Miers ex Hook, f. and Thoms
Sanskrit: Guduchee,
Madhuparnee, Amritaa, Chhinnaruhaa, Watsadaanee, Taantrikaa, Kundalanee,
Chakralakshanika and many more
English: Tinospora
Bengalee: Gulancha/Palo
Gujarati: Galo
Hindi: Giloy,
Guduchee, Gurach
Kannada: Amritaa
bali
Malayaalam: Ambrithu, Chittamritu
Marathi: Gulawela
Punjabee: Gilo
Tamil: Shindilakodi, Amudom, Chindil
Telugu: Tippaa tiga
AKA: Ambervel, Heart-leaved Moonseed, Heavenly Elixir,
Jetwatika. [7], [8]
Taxonomic Classification
Kingdom: Plantae-Plants.
Unranked: Angiosperm.
Division: Magnoliophyta- Flowering Plants
Class: Magnoliopsida, Liliopsida-Monocotyledons.
Order: Ranunculales,
Zingiberales.
Family:
Menispemaceae, Zingiberaceae- Ginger
family. [9]
Geographical distribution
This
plant is found throughout tropical part of India; typically growing in
deciduous and dry forests. It is also indigenous to Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
The
plants are long-lived and often locally abundant. It does not require any
particular type of soil. It has adapted to grow in any soil and climate that
offers good moisture and sunlight. It can grow in any temperature and in India
can thrive 1200 meters above sea level. [10]
Plant Morphology
Guduchi plant Guduchi root
Guduchi stem Guduchi leaves
Guduchi flowers Guduchi fruits
Macroscopic Characteristics
Guduchee
(T. cordifolia) is a large,
deciduous, extensively spreading, perennial herbaceous vine of weak and fleshy
stem found throughout India. T.
cordifolia is a big twining glabrous climber which generally climbs with
several elongated twining branches on large trees preferring the support of
mango and neem trees.
Roots are tuberous,
long thread like, aerial; arise from branches, often growing on neem or mango
trees.
Bark is thin, succulent, creamy white to grey in color, with deep clefts
spotted with lenticels. (A lenticel is an opening that allows gaseous exchange
between air and the inner tissues of a plant)
Stem succulent, fleshy, twining, 0.5 to 5 cm in diameter, green when young,
with smooth surface and swelling at nodes; older ones are brown in color with
warty protuberances.
Branches are grey-green, up to 40 mm in diameter, becoming
brown with age
Leaves are heart-shaped, smooth, simple, alternate, exstipulate;
petiole up to 15 long, roundish, pulvinate (having a swelling), both at the
base and apex with the basal one longer and twisted partially and half way
around. Lamina broadly ovate or ovate-cordate, 10-20 cm long, 8-15 cm
broad, 7 nerved and deeply cordate at base, membranous, pubescent above,
whitish tomentose with a prominent reticulum beneath.
Flowers are small, leafless, yellowish-greenish in color, growing
in lax axillary, terminal racemes (Marathee: Pushpamanjiree) emerge from nodes
on old wood in spring. They are unisexual (male and female flowers are formed
on different plants). Male flowers clustered, female usually solitary. Sepals
six, free in two series of three each, the outer ones are smaller
than the inner. Petals six, free, smaller than sepals obovate and
membranous.
Fruits are drupes, pea like, aggregate of 1-3, up to 10 mm in diameter,
smooth, oval, glossy, succulent, fleshy, on thick stalk, single seeded, turning
scarlet or orange-red when ripe, up to 10 mm in diameter.
Seeds are curved, pea-sized.
Microscopic Characteristics
Root:
The aerial root is characterized by
tetra- arch to penta- arch structure. The cortex has outer thick walled zone
representing the velamen (a spongy epidermis that covers the roots of some
plants) and inner parenchymatous zone containing secretory canals. Starch is
present throughout the parenchyma of the aerial root. The starch grains are
elliptical in shape, mostly simple but sometimes as compound grains of 2 to 5
components, with faintly marked concentric striations and central hilum
appearing like a point.
Stem:
Stem is characterized by the presence
of bicollateral vascular bundles surrounded by pericycle fibers. The cork
arises in the sub-epidermal layers giving rise to 2-3 layers of cork. Starch is
present throughout the parenchyma of the stem.
(Note:
The bicollateral vascular bundle consists of two patches of phloem, two
strips of cambium and one patch of xylem at the center. It is confined to
certain dicot stems only) [12]
Leaf:
In transverse section the petiole is
more or less circular in outline. No trichomes (fine outgrowths or appendages)
found. The cross section shows a single layered epidermis and a wide zone of
cortex composed of 3-4 layers of endodermis. The vascular bundles consist of
radial rows of xylem on the inner side and a few rows of cambium cells on the
outer side followed by phloem. The mid-rib is more or less circular in outline
and palisade does not extend over the stellar tissue. The cross section of
lamina shows a dorsiventral structure with its mesophyll differentiated into
palisade and spongy tissue. The mesophyll is clearly differentiated into a
palisade layer made up of one row of thin-walled columnar cells which occupy a
little more than half of the width of mesophyll. Glandular hair are present in
lower surface only. They are unicellular and somewhat club shaped. The base is
surrounded by 4 to 5 epidermal cells. Starch is present throughout the
tissue. [13]
Parts used
Every
part of the plant has medicinal use. In Auyrveda the whole plant is valued.
In
Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia the stem is approved because of higher content of
alkaloid in it. The traditional preparation ‘Guduchee Sattwa’is obtained from
the herb growing with the support of neem (Azadirachta
indica). The preparation is said to incorporate the medicinal values of
neem. Hence the preparation is bitterer and more efficacious.
Phytochemistry
According
to the class of chemical to which they belong, a large number of chemical
compounds isolated from T. cordifolia can
be described as:
Alkaloids
Berberin,
Tembetarine, Magnoflorine, Choline, Tinosporin, Isocolumbine, Palmatine,
Tetrahydropalmatine, bitter gilonin, non-glycoside gilonin gilosterol [14]
Glycosides
18-neoclerodane
glucoside, Furanoid-diterpene glucoside, Tinocordiside, Tinocordifolioside,
Cordioside, Cordifolioside A to E, Syringin, Syringin-apiosyl glucoside,
Palmatosides C and F, Amritoside
Diterpinoid lactones
Furanolactone,
Clerodane derivatives, Tinosporin, Tinosporides and Jateorine
Recently
four new clerodane furano diterpene glucosides (amritosides A, B, C and D) have
been isolated as their acetates from stems. [15]
Cordifolide
A, a sulfur-containing Clerodane Diterpene Glycoside has been isolated from Tinospora
cordifolia. Probably this is responsible for anti-microbial activity of the
plant. Cordifolide B and C have also been isolated as a white powder in the
form of a mixture that could not be further separated by any chromatographic
methods.[16]
Sterols
Beta
Sitosterol, Delta Sitosterol, 20- Beta Hydroxy ecdysterone, Makisterone A, Giloinsterol
(Gilosterol)
Sesquiterpenoid
Tinocordifolin
Aliphatic Compound
Octacosanol,
Heptacosanol
Phenolic compounds
Miscellaneous
Nonacosan,
Jatrorrhizine, Tinosporidine, Cordifol, Cordifelone, N-Trans-feruloyl Tyramine
diacetate, Giloin, Gilonin, Tinosporic acid,
The
adaptogenic compounds for which the plant is valued most need a special
mention. They are:
Diterpine
compounds, Tinosporin, Tinosporides, Berberine, Giloin, Giloinin,
Arabinogalactan, Picrotene and bergenin.
A
new hypoglycaemic agent was isolated from the plant. It was found to be 1,
2-substituted pyrrolidine. [17]
The
phytochemical analysis of T. cordifolia revealed that alkaloids,
flavonoids, tannins, phenols, saponins, glycosides, aminoacids and steroids
contained in the plant might be accountable for its antimicrobial potential. [18]
Identity,
Purity and Strength
(1)
For
dried drug-
Foreign
matter: Not more than 2 percent
Total
ash: Not more than 16 percent
Acid-insoluble
ash: Not more than 3 percent
Alcohol-soluble
extractive: Not less than 3
percent
Water-soluble
extractive: Not less than 11 percent
For
fresh drug----
Foreign matter:
Nil
Moisture
content: 75 percent. [19]
(2)
Standards for Identity and Purity accepted by other experts:
Foreign
matter: Not more than 2
percent
Total
ash: Not more than 7 percent
Acid-soluble
ash: Not less than 0.8 percent
Ethanol-
extractive: Not less than 6
percent
Loss
on drying: Not more than 7.5
percent
Lead: Not more than 10 ppm
Arsenic: Not more than 2 ppm
Heavy
metals: Not more than 20 ppm
Total
bacterial count: Not more than
3000 CFU/gm
Yeasts
and moulds: Not more than 100
CFU/gm
Bitters
content on dry basis by Gravimetry/HPTLC Not less than 3 percent w/w
(3) Standards accepted by
Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) in 2010
Foreign organic matter:
Not more than 2.0 per cent
Ethanol-soluble
extractive: Not less than 1.5 per
cent
Water-soluble extractive:
Not less than 9.0 per cent
Total ash: Not more than 10.0 per cent
Acid-insoluble ash: Not more than 3.0 percent
Heavy metals: 1.0 g complies with the limit test for heavy metals
Loss
on drying: Not more than 10.0 per
cent, determined on 5.0 g by drying in an oven at 1050 (0
C or 0 F is not mentioned)
Microbial
contamination: Complies with the
microbial contamination tests.
Assay:
Determined by liquid chromatography
[20]
TLC
pattern
On
TLC identity test the drug showed six major molecules having Rf value and color
0.24 (Yellow); 0.35 (dark green) (tinosporoside); 0.42 (green); 0.44 (light
yellow); 0.76 (dark green) and 0.79 (dark green) using chloroform and methanol
(9:1) as a solvent system and anisaldehyde - sulphuric acid as spraying
reagent [21]
HPCL chromatogram
By HPCL chromatogram of
methanol extract of T. cordifolia the standard quantity of berberine in
the plant has been determined [22]
Cytological Identity
9 Chromosome counts in Tinospora cordifolia
(Willd.) Miers [23]
Genetic study
With
the help of molecular techniques like Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD),
Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphic DNA (AFLP), Restricted Length Polymorphic
DNA (RFLP) and Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) etc. The identification of
plant species has now become very accurate. [24]
Safety Tests
No
safety data for each specific species of herb is available. Here are general
guidelines:
Heavy
Metals:
Arsenic: Not
more than 5.0 mg/kg
Mercury: Not
more than 0.5mg/kg
Lead: Not
more than 10.0 mg/kg
Chromium: Not
more than 0.3 mg/kg
Microbial
Limits:
Total
bacterial count: Not more than 105cfu/g
Total
yeast and mould count:
Not more than 104cfu/g
Bile
tolerant gram negative bacteria:
Not more than 104cfu/g
Specific
Pathogens:
Salmonella
spp: Absent in 25 g
Escherichia coli: Absent in 1g
Staphylococcus
aureus: Absent
in 1g
Pseudomonas
aeruginosa: Absent in 1g
[25]
Properties and Pharmacology
Ayurvedic Properties
Ganas (Classical Categories)
Charaka Ganas: Vayahsthaapana (Anti aging, Age stabilizer), Daaha prashamana
(Respites burning sensation, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-histaminic), Trishnaa
nigrahana (Quenches thirst), Stanya shodhana (Milk purifier).
Sushruta+Ganas: Guduchyaadi, Patolaadi, Aaragwadhaadi, Kaakolyaadi,
Wallipanchaka
Energetics
Wipaaka (End result, Post digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
Prabhaawa (Special Effect, Prominent Effect): Wishaghna (Alexipharmic, acting as antidote to
poisons)
Gunas (Qualities): Guru (heavy), Snigdha (Anointing)
Effects
on Doshas: Waata, Pitta, Kapha,
(Tridoshaghna i. e. passifies the three ‘doshas’)
Actions
on Dhaatus (Tissues):
Rasa (Lymph), Rakta (Blood), Maansa (Muscles), Meda (Adipose tissue, Fat),
Majjaa (bone marrow), Aartava (Menstrual blood?) and Shukra (Semen)
Srotas (Systems): Rasawaha (Lymphatic), Annawaha (GI system), Raktawaha
(Hemopoetic system), Medowaha (Adipose system)
Medowaha Srotas: Adipose system
Eons
ago Ayurveda recognized Meda (Fat) as one of the components of Adipose system.
Ayurveda also described some functions of Meda. However, for centuries Modern
medical science did not recognize adipose tissue as a component of any system.
It is only recently we say ‘Fat is not a
lump of lard!’
Now
according to modern view, Adipose tissue is a complex, metabolic and endocrine
organ. It is highly active. The adipose tissue contains adipocytes, connective
tissue matrix, nerve tissue, stromal cells, and immune cells. These components
function as an integrated unit. Adipose tissue responds to afferent signals
from endocrine system and the CNS. It secretes leptin, cytokines, adiponectin,
complement components, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, proteins of the
renin-angiotensin system, and resistin. Adipose tissue (system?) is a major
site for metabolism of sex steroids and glucocorticoids. Collectively they
perform important endocrine functions.
Well!
This is not the place to discuss in detail about the ‘Adipose System’. However
the author decided to give only an overview necessary for the current context.
[26]
AyurvedicActions
Deepana - Appetizer
Aamapaachana- Free radical scavenger
Anulomana - Prokinetic
Balya - Strengthening tonic
Daaha
hara – Respites burning sensation, anti-inflammatory,
antihistaminic.
Graahee - Constipating
Jwaraghna -Anti-pyretic
Kaasahara – Anti tussive
Kushthaghna - Antileprotic
Pramehaghna - Anti-diabetic
Rasaayana – Rejuvenator, Adaptogen
Stanya
shodhana- Purifier of the breast milk
Shwaasahara –Allays breathlessness
Waatahara -Pacifies Waata
Wishagna – Alexipharmic, acting as antidote to poison
When
taken internally routinely (daily) Guduchee choorna (powder) can delay aging. Thus
Guduchee acts as wayahsthaapak rasaayana (anti aging,
age-stabilizer-rejuvenator).
Guduchee
improves microcirculation, hence it is recommended for correcting ischemic
vascular diseases like PVDs.
Guduchee
possesses antiseptic and analgesic properties.
Because
of its Snigdha Guna and Madhur Wipaaka, Guduchee is a very good aphrodisiac.
[27]
Guduchee
(T.cordifolia) is antipyretic,
antiperiodic (a remedy possessing the property of preventing the periodic
exacerbations), blood purifier, paandunaashaka (anti-anemic), waataraktahaaraka
(anti-gout), daaha prashamana (the one which respites or allays or relieves
burning sensation), kushthanaashaka, (anti-leprotic), walee-palita naashaka
(arrests and prevents balding), trishaa shaamaka (alleviates and quenches
excessive thirst), bitter, appetizer, digestive (digestant), antiemetic,
anthelmintic, kaamalaahara (allays jaundice),
hepatoprotectant, antitussive, antiasthmatic, hridroganaashaka (relives cardiac
disorders), mehanaashaka (antidiabetic), diuretic, balya (tonic, increases
strength), wayah-sthaapaka (stabilizes age and prevents aging), adaptogen,
rasaayana (rejuvenator), chakshushya (beneficial to eye and useful in
ophthalmic disorders), nervine tonic and memory booster ( does it mean
prevention of Alzheimer’s disease?),
tonic and vitalizer, wrishya (aphrodisiac). The well-ground whole plant paste
is applied on fractures.
Maharshi
Charaka makes a special mention about it as ‘stanya shodhana’ (the one which
purifies breast milk)
Sushruta
the noted surgeon mentioned it as ‘shukra shodhana’ (the one which purifies the
semen and sperms)
Modern View
T. cordifolia has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory,
antipyretic, anti-allergic, anti-leprotic, antispasmodic, antiemetic,
cholagogue, hepatoprotective, detoxicating, antiarthritic, adaptogenic,
antidiabetic, antimalarial and anti-neoplastic activities. The main target
organs for Guduchee are liver, spleen and kidney.
Alpha-D-Glucan
Molecular formula: C6H12O6, HO
(C6H10O5)n
Structural formula:
[28]
It
activates the immune system through the activation of macrophages. [29]
The
signaling mechanism of (1, 4)-alpha-D-glucan (RR1) was investigated in
macrophages to evaluate its immune-stimulating properties. [30]
Further
study revealed that this activity is mediated via TLR6 signaling, NF kappa B
translocation and cytokine production.
Arabinogalactan (AG)
Pharmacological
actions of AG have been discussed in detail in the chapter on Bhoomyaamalakee (P. amarus)
Beta-ecdysone
Molecular formula: C27H44O6
Structural formula:
[31]
Ecdysteroids
are steroids found in invertebrates and plants. In mammals they have protein anabolic
effects. Beta Ecdysone has anti-osteoporosis activity. In oophorectomized rats
Guduchee (Tinospora cordifolia) was found to increase the thickness of
atricular cartilage of the lower end of femur and upper end of tibia and
epiphyseal growth plates and trabacular bone in the region of metaphyseal
region of tibia. The whole epiphyseal growth plate and its proliferative and
hypertrophic zones were also increased. Therefore Guduchee (Tinospora
cordifolia) can be used to prevent osteoporosis and osteo-arthritis which
explains Guduchee being used as ‘Rasaayana’ in Ayurveda. [32]
Ecdysteroids
have cytotoxic properties. [33]
The ethanolic extract of stem of Tinospora
cordifolia has anti-osteoporotic effect. This effect is attributed to ecdysteroids contained in it. [34]
Berberine
Molecular formula: C20H18NO4+
Structural formula:
Berberine is strongly yellow in color. Under
ultraviolet light it shows a strong yellow fluorescence.
Berberine is considered antibiotic. In combination
with 5- methoxyhydnocarpin berberine breaks multidrug resistance of many
microorganisms. Berberine inhibits the growth of Staphylococcus aureus.
Berberine increases adiponectin expression.
Berberine prevents glucocorticoid induced
osteoporosis. [36]
Berberine
is a quaternary ammonium salt. It belongs to protoberberine group of
isoquinoline alkaloids. It has pleiotropic properties and actions.
Berberine
shows antifungal activity. It is synergistic to fluconazole but is active even
against fluconazole resistant Candida
albicans.
Berberine
is active against Staphylococcus aureus
and methycillin resistant Staphylococcus
aureus (MRSA).
Berberine
is active against trachoma virus. Hence it is used in some eye-drop
formulations.
In
some centers berberine is an established treatment for leishmaniasis.
Berberine
is a very potent anti-inflammatory agent. It inhibits pro-inflammatory
cytokines, such as E-selectin.
Berberine
is a very potent antioxidant. It restores cellular REDOX balance. Its
anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties are beneficial to cardiovascular
system (CVS). Berberine reduces elevated levels of total cholesterol, LDL, TG
and apolipoprotein B by a mechanism different from that of statins. Berberin
acts directly on PCSK9 (Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin Kexin 9) receptor, a
natural inhibitor of LDL receptor and not through HMG-Co-A. Therefore berberine
does not cause side effects typical to statins. Berberine and plant stanols
acting synergistically inhibit cholesterol absorption. Thus berberine
aggressively controls dyslipidemia and prevents atherosclerosis. Berberine is
also useful in advanced congestive cardiac failure (CCF).
Berberine
acts on insulin receptors and stimulates them, inhibits aldose reductase, and
like metformin overcomes insulin resistance. Thus berberine is very useful for
the treatment of metabolic syndrome.
Berberine
reduces hepatic fat content in the liver. It is therefore useful for the
treatment of non alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Berberine also prevents
proliferation of HSCs (Hepatic Stellate Cells) which are responsible for the
development of liver fibrosis.
Berberine ameliorates pro-inflammatory
cytokines-induced intestinal epithelial damage. Berberine can be useful in
diarrhea, dysentery, chronic colitis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
According
to a Chinese report, berberine combined with cyclosporine A (Cs A) could
markedly increase the concentration of (Cs A) in the blood. Berberine thus can
reduce the dosage of (Cs A), saving the cost of therapy and avoiding the
untoward side effects.
Berberine
has anti-neoplastic activity. It can suppress leukemia, epidermoid carcinoma,
melanoma, oral cancers, cancers of the tongue, GI cancers, hepatoma, pancreatic
cancers, genito-urinary cancers, glioblastoma, breast cancer etc.
The
mechanism of anti-cancer activity of berberine is nebulous. Various explanations
offered are:
1.
It inhibits angiogenesis
2.
It modulates cyclooxygenase (COX-2), MDR, TNF, IL-6, iNOS, IL-12 etc.
3.
It binds and inhibits stress induced mitogen-activated protein kinase
activation
4.
It induces apoptosis of cancer cells
5.
Its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties prevent carcinogenesis
6.
It suppresses NF-kappa B activation induced by various inflammatory agents and
carcinogens.
Berberine
300 mg thrice a day taken orally inhibits complications of abdominal radiation
(Radiation Induced Acute Intestinal Symptoms). Berberine is a cytostatic agent.
Berberine
is antidepressant, neuroprotective in neurodegenerative conditions. Berberine
is said to be useful in schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by
antioxidant property and through cholinesterase inhibitory and beta-amyloid
pathway.
Recent
studies show that, anti-inflammatory and macrophage activation properties of
berberine may be useful for the treatment of HIV infection.
It
seems that all the pharmacological actions of T. cordifolia are in fact the actions of berberine! [37]
For
more details of pharmacology of berberine refer to my monograph on
Daaru-haridraa (Berberis aristata)
Alkaloids
The
protection offered by T. cordifolia
against afflatoxin-induced nephrotoxicity is attributed to the presence of
alkaloids such as choline, tinosporin, isocolumbin, palmatine,
tetrahydropalmatine and magnoflorine. [38]
Magnoflorine
Molecular
formula: C20H24NO4
Structural formula:
[39]
Magnoflorine
(Mf) is a quaternary ammonium salt. It is ganglion blocking agent. Some
curare-like action has also been noticed. It has practically no effect on the
adrenergic system. The hypotensive action of magnoflorine is therefore, mainly
associated with ganglionic blockade. [40]
Tinosporin, Tinosporic acid, Tinosporol,
Cordifolioside A and Syringin are immunomodulatory agents.
N-Methyl-2-pyrollidone,
N-formylannonain, magnoflorine and tinocordiside enhance phagocytic activity.
[41]
Some testimonials from modern research:
Anti-Inflammatory Activity
The
polysaccharides contained in T.
cordifolia show anti-inflammatory activity and enhance phagocytosis in
vivo. [42]
The
alcoholic extract of T. cordifolia is
effective against acute and subacute inflammations. [43]
T. cordifolia growing with the support of Neem (Azadirachta indica) is known as Neem
Giloe. The water extract of Neem Giloe exhibits much superior anti-inflammatory
activity. When given orally and intraperitoneally (50 mg/100gram of bodyweight)
it significantly inhibited in mice the acute inflammation induced by
carrageenan. It also significantly inhibits antibody formation by ‘typhoid H’
antigen. [44]
This
effect is probably because of synergism with chemicals derived from Neem. [45]
In an animal model, aqueous extract of T.
cordifolia was used to treat cotton pellet granuloma and formalin induced
arthritis. The extract produced a significant anti-inflammatory activity which
was comparable with indomethacin. The extract was effective in both acute and
sub acute inflammations. T. cordifolia was more effective than acetylsalicylic
acid in acute inflammation. But in subacute inflammation T. cordifolia
was found to be inferior to phenylbutazone. [46]
A compound preparation ‘Rumalaya’by Himalaya
Pharmaceuticals (Disclaimer: I have no financial interest) containing T. cordifolia was reported
to significantly reduce pain in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
[47]
Antioxidant Activity
In
vitro, extract of T. cordifolia
inhibits the lipid peroxidation and super oxide and hydroxyl radicals. To
achieve 50 % inhibition the concentration needed was 6mg and 12.5 mg/ ml
respectively. At 25mg/kg body weight for 10 days the extract also ameliorated
the toxicity of cyclophosphamide. These effects are attributed to antioxidant
property of T. cordifolia. [48]
AG
isolated from T. cordifolia showed
good protection against gamma-ray induced damage. This is attributed to
antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity of AG. [49]
Oral
administration of alcoholic extract of the root of T. cordifolia at 100mg/kg for six weeks to diabetic rats
reinstates the depleted levels of glutathione in the liver and kidney; thus
protecting these organs from oxidative stress injury. [50]
During
and after ischemia and hypoxia of the brain, free radical insult leads to
necrosis and brain cell death. Antioxidant activity of T. cordifolia counters these insults and exhibits neuroprotective
activity. [51]
Metal
chelating and free radical scavenging properties of T. cordifolia show radioprotective effect. [52]
Immunomodulatory activity
In
some experimental studies on mice, by modulating the proinflammatory cytokines;
G1-4A, a polysaccharide from T.
cordifolia protected them against septic shock. [53]
In
some experimental studies on Swiss Albino mice of either sex weighing between
18 and 20 grams; pretreated with T.
cordifolia, Thatte UM, Kulkarni MR, Dahanukar SA, injected
intraperitoteally, 108 E. coli
to induce peritonitis. These animals showed marked bacterial clearance and
phagocytic activity against the bacteria as well. T. cordifolia also prevented the development of sepsis. [54]
Syringin
and Cordiol contained in T. cordifolia
inhibited immunohemolysis of antibody coated sheep RBCs by guinea pig serum.
These compounds also increased Ig G in the serum. However the humoral and cell mediated
immunity was dose dependent. Cordoside, Cordiofolioside A and Cordiol contained
in the plant also activated macrophages. [55]
In
some studies the water and ethanolic extract of the stem of T. cordifolia was found to inhibit the cyclophosphamide induced immunosuppression [56]
In
summary one can say T. cordifolia can
build up specific and nonspecific immunity against many diseases.
Antimicrobial
Activity
The
alcoholic extract of the stem shows activity against E. coli. Active
principles identified from the plant extract were found to inhibit in vitro
the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. [57]
The
plant extract showed in vitro to inactivate Hepatitis B surface antigen.
[58]
Dr.
Nirmala Rege HOD, Dept. Pharma and Therapeutics and Ayurveda, G. S. Medical
College, Mumbai, India is of the opinion that T. cordifolia is superior
to P. niruri in this regard.
In a clinical trial at Regional Research Institute
(Ayurveda) Jaipur, India; 20 patients of infective hepatitis (viral hepatitis,
type of viruses not mentioned) were treated with tablets (500mg per tablet)
prepared from stem of T. cordifolia. Each patient received 500mg tablet with water
three times a day for four weeks. Fifteen patients were cured and five patients
improved. [59]
Hepatoprotective Activity
T. cordifolia stimulates the regeneration of hepatic tissue,
normalizes the hepatic enzymes and prevents the liver fibrosis.
In
experimental studies on mature albino rats, extract of T. cordifolia protected the animals from CCl4 insult.
This effect was attributed to hepatoprotective and immunomodulatory properties
of T. cordifolia. [60]
In
chronic liver disease Kupffer cells are damaged as indicated by suppressed
Kupffer cell function. T. cordifolia
improves the cell function and may even normalize it. [61]
The antituberculosis treatment after 3 months can
induce liver damage as is evident by altered liver enzymes and histological
changes of liver necrosis. However administration of 100mg/kg of T.
cordifolia showed reduction of liver damage, while administration of
300mg/kg of Phyllanthus emblica prevented the liver damage.
Some researchers also tried curcumin from Curcuma
longa to protect the liver from the hepatotoxicity caused by anti-tubercular
drugs. [62], [63]
In
Jammu, Thailand and Philippines T.
cordifolia, T. crispa and T. rumphii
Boerl are used as hepatoprotectants against many toxins. Recent research
has shown that a combination of Turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) and Guduchee extract (T. cordifolia) offers better hepatoprotection than T. cordifolia alone to counter the side
effects of anti-tubercular drugs. [64]
Extrahepatic
obstructive jaundice is associated with immunosupression, deranged hepatic
function and sepsis. This may mar the surgical outcome. Addition of T. cordifolia 16 mg/kg/day orally to
conventional management (i. e. biliary drainage, antibiotics, vitamin K etc.)
improved surgical outcome by boosting host defenses. [65]
Extracts
of T. cordifolia were useful for the
treatment of Hepatitis B and E. The extracts also showed in vitro activity
against these viruses inactivating them in 48 to 72 hours. [66]
Berberine
contained in T. Cordifolia reduces hepatic fat content in rats of NASH
or NAFLD. Berberine also prevents proliferation of hepatic stellate cells
(HSCs), which are central for the development of fibrosis during liver injury. [67]
Guduchee
shows anti HBV, anti HCV activity, activity against obesity and NASH. These
activities are due to berberine. The pharmacology of berberine has been
discussed in detail in the chapter on Daaru-haridraa (Berberis aristata)
Culinary uses
The
fruit of the plant has a great capacity to absorb oxygen free radicals. Hence
it should be included in daily dishes.
Medicinal Actions and Uses
Traditional Uses
From
proverbial grandmothers’ medicinal chest, from folk medicine to classic text
books of Ayurveda, Guduchee (T.cordifolia)
is a popular medicine.
It
is used to treat PUO, malaria and periodic fever, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis,
upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), bronchial asthma, in ophthalmic
disorders, as tonic to boost immunity and body resistance, GI disorders, diarrhea,
jaundice, as hepatoprotectant, in ascites, anemia, Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Osteoarthritis
(OA), gout, diabetes, skin allergies, leprosy, as adaptogen and rejuvenator, in
gynecological problems, as aphrodisiac, as nervine tonic and in psychosomatic
disorders.
Usages
in folk and tribal medicine in India
The
tribals of Naugarh and Chakia Block of Varanasi prepare pills of the stem of
Guduchee (T. cordifolia) and the roots of Bhatkatiaya (Solanum
surattense) and use in the treatment of fever.
The
fishermen along the sea coast of Mumbai use T. cordifolia in the
treatment of fever, jaundice, dysentery and chronic diarrhea.
The
tribals of Khedbrahma, North Gujarat use powdered stem and root of T.
cordifolia with milk for the treatment of (?liver) cancer; decoction of
root to cure diarrhea and dysentery and decoction of old stem for the treatment
of fever.
The
people of Jammu and Kashmir, Bigwada (Rajasthan), Bhuvaneshwar (Orissa),
Patiyala (Punjab) use T. cordifolia for the treatment of fever.
The
tribals of Maharashtra use cold water infusion (faanta or sheeta) or hot water
decoction (kwaatha) of the stem (3-4 gm) in the morning on empty stomach as
tonic for general debility.
Paste or juice of Amritaaa (T.
Cordifolia) leaves and Sarshapa beeja choorna (seed powder of Brassica
campestris) is applied locally for daaha (burning sensation).
A mixture of equal
parts of Amritaa (Tinospora cordifolia), Hareetakee (Terminalia
chebula), and Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) powders with salt is
administered orally once daily early morning by the people of Dhurala (Haryana)
for the treatment of cough.
Lambative of Guduchee (T.
Cordifolia) and 5 seeds of Krishna Marich (Piper nigrum) is
administered orally by women of Arjunpura (Rajasthan) to women suffering from
menorrhagia (excessive vaginal bleeding)
The inhabitants of Badala
(U.P.) take the juice of the stem of T. cordifolia with honey for the treatment
of shwaasa (Bronchial asthma)
Decoction
of stem is administered orally by the people of Dehrabara Kolaras, Shivpuri
District of M. P. for the treatment of skin- diseases.
The
Muslim tribals of Rajouri, Jammu comprising Gujjar and Backwals use the plant
for the treatment of fractured bones. [68]
Usages in Ayurveda
As
adaptogen it is recommended for routine, continuous use for the wellbeing of
physical and mental health.
It is used to treat Pyrexia of Unknown Origin
(PUO)
It is used to treat many skin disorders
It is used to treat Osteoarthritis
(OA), Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and gout
It is used to quench
thirst.
It is recommended for all
GI disorders (loss of appetite, acid-peptic disease, intestinal colic,
diarrhea, dysentery, worm infestation)
It is specially recommended
for biliary colic, jaundice, alcoholic liver disease, portal hypertension and
hepatosplenomegaly
It is used to treat anemia.
It is used for diabetes
It is useful to treat
disorders of central and peripheral nervous system
It is used
to treat ED (erectile dysfunction) [69]
Usages in Modern Medicine
Inspite
of favourable results of modern research on T.
cordifolia the herb is not utilized properly in modern practice. It is used
as an adjuvant to treat:
Chronic
diarrhea and dysentery
Viral
hepatitis
Obstructive
jaundice
Portal
sepsis
NASH
Septic
shock
To
boost non specific immunity
Some
disorders of bone marrow
Anemia
Diabetes
and allied conditions
Toxicity
That
Ayurvedic medicines especially herbal preparations have no untoward side
effects is a common misconception. T.
codifolia can show interactions with other drugs. It can be dangerous in
patients with Ca prostate.
Possible Interactions:
It
can potentiate the action of Oral Hypoglycemic Agents (OHAs).
One
should stop using it 2-3 weeks before surgery.
Contraindications
It
is advisable not to use it during pregnancy and lactation
Preparations and dosages
Powder of the Stem: 3-6 gm
Decoction: 50-100 ml
Guduchyaadi kwaatha: 10 - 20 ml
Amritaarishta: 10 -20 ml
Amritaa Ghrita: ¼ - ½ tea spoon with water usually before food once or
twice a day.
Samshamanee Watee: 1 gm twice a day
Sudarshana Choorna: 3-6gm
Guduchee Kashaya: 10-20 ml.
Guduchee Ghana: 250 mg three times a day
Guduchee Loha (Iron): Dose not mentioned
Tablets: 250 mg three times a day
Capsules: 250 mg three times a day
Giloy sattwa, Gulawel sattwa: Dose not mentioned
Guduchyaadi tailam: For external use only
For PUO: Fresh decoction: 15 ml or Guduchee Ghana: 250 mg three
times a day for 7 days
For URTI: It has been used for prophylactic and therapeutic
purposes. Guduchee Ghanawatee 250 mg three times a day
For Gout: It is used in combination with guggul. This
combination is known as Kaishor guggul.
Dose: 500 mg B.D. for one month. [70]
To
boost immunity or strengthen immune system 1-2 capsules twice a day after meal
or as directed by Ayurvedic physician [71]
Additional
Information
Formulations,
preparations and Dosages reported by Dr. N. N. Rege et al:
Swaras
(Juice from the fresh Strm): 10-20 ml/day
Kalka
(Paste of the fresh Stem): 10g/day
Choorna
(Powdered dry stem): 1-3 g/day
Kwaatha
(Decoction or hot water extract from the ground dried Stem): 20-30 mL two or three times a day
Fant
(Hot water infusion): 10-20 mL/day
Arishta
(Stable processed formulation from decoction containing self generated
alcohol): 10-20mL/day
Sattwa
(Sedimented starch extract of the Stem):
750mg to 2g/day
Ghana
(Solidified aqueous extract): 500mg
to 1g three to four times a day
Guduchee
Ghrita (Guduchee processed in ghee):
10 to 20 g/day
Guduchee
Tailam: Guduchee processed in oil for external use.
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