Since the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors have been stressing upon building a strong immune response. But for many Indians augmenting their immunity is synonymous with consuming Giloy, which is not wrong. However, when it comes to health-related information one must process the claims with a pinch of salt. This holds true for unfettered Giloy consumption that is being happened in almost every Indian household. 

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A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hepatology quotes several doctors who say that they have found severe liver-related conditions in patients with high consumption of herb Tinospora cordifolia, ie. Giloy.

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Hepatologist Dr Aabha Nagral who was part of that study told TOI, “We, for the first time, found severe liver injury, proven using biopsy, related to the herb Tinospora cordifolia”

Apart from causing liver damage, Giloy also causes several other side effects like constipation and fluctuation in blood sugar levels.

While this does not mean that the herb carries no benefits altogether, but we must consult doctors before assuming benefits and consuming anything that is being told. Here are some other side effects of consuming Giloy.

Can make blood sugar level drop

Giloy is a natural way of controlling blood sugar levels and thus, can be helpful to those with diabetes. However, if it is being consumed along with regular diabetes medicine then it may cause your blood sugar levels to drop down drastically.

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Can trigger auto-immune conditions

If you are diagnosed with auto-immune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, then Giloy is not a very good choice until of course, your doctor has advised you. 

Affect pregnancy

Experts suggest that pregnant women or those who are breastfeeding should avoid consuming giloy.