GUDUCHI: THE WONDER DRUG AND ITS MULTIFACETED ROLE IN PANCHAKARMA MANAGEMENT - FROM SHODHANA TO REJUVENATION

Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), commonly known as Giloy, is one of the most important medicinal plants described in Ayurveda and is widely recognized for its Rasayana, immunomodulatory, antioxidant and rejuvenative properties. Classical Ayurvedic texts describe Guduchi as beneficial in Jwara (fever), Prameha (diabetes mellitus), Kamala (jaundice), Kushtha (skin disorders), inflammatory disorders and metabolic abnormalities. Ayurveda considers Guduchi a potent Tridosahara and Vyadhikshamatva Vardhaka herb capable of promoting longevity, immunity and vitality. Modern scientific investigations have validated several traditional claims and reported antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, anti diabetic, anti inflammatory, neuroprotective, cardioprotective and anticancer activities. Guduchi is also extensively used in Panchakarma procedures, particularly in Jwara, Amavata, metabolic disorders and inflammatory conditions due to its Amapacana, Rasayana and Doshashamana properties. The present review summarizes the Ayurvedic perspective,phytochemical profile, pharmacological actions, therapeutic significance and role of Guduchi in Panchakarma from both classical and modern viewpoints. Available evidence suggests that Guduchi possesses remarkable medicinal potential and may serve as an important component in integrative healthcare systems.