TINOSPORA CORDIFOLIA

SOURCE INFORMATION

Commonly known as,

Ninjara, Guluchee, Guruchi, Kodi, Tippa-tige, Guluchi ; Amritvel, Heart-leaved, Moon-seed.

Gilo, Gularich, Gulwali, Gharol, Gula-veli, Shindil

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Clade: Angiosperms
• Clade: Eudicots
• Order: Ranunculales
• Family: Menispermaceae
• Genus: Tinospora
• Species: T. cordifolia

Origin and Historical Facts

• Tinospora cordifolia is native to tropical regions of India, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.
• It has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, where it is known as “Amritvel,” meaning “the root of immortality.”
• Historical texts describe its use in treating a variety of ailments, including chronic fevers, liver disorders, and infections.
• The plant is often found growing in deciduous and dry forests and is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and fleshy stem.

DRUG PATHOGENESIS

• Tinospora cordifolia exhibits a range of pharmacological actions, including antipyretic (fever-reducing), anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects.
• It acts by enhancing the body’s immune response and promoting the removal of toxins.
• Its constituents, such as alkaloids, diterpenoid lactones, glycosides, steroids, and polysaccharides, contribute to its wide therapeutic profile.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

• Immunomodulatory: Enhances immune system function.
• Antipyretic: Reduces fever.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation.
• Adaptogenic: Helps the body adapt to stress.
• Hepatoprotective: Protects the liver.

DETAILED ORGAN SYMPTOMS

FEVER

• Acute or Chronic Malarial Fever: Characterized by afternoon temperature spikes accompanied by chills and shivering, bilious vomiting, thirst, and headache.
• Chronic Slow Fever: Often linked with a history of gonorrhoea and weakness due to seminal loss.
• Bad Effect of Quinine: Continuation of fever with burning sensation in hands and face, and jaundice.

URINARY SYSTEM

• Frequent Urination: Small quantities of urine with a burning sensation during urination.
• Pus in Urine: Urine mixed with pus indicating an infection.

HEART

• Palpitation: Excessive and noticeable heartbeats.

MODALITIES

• Aggravation: Symptoms worsen in the afternoon and with the intake of quinine.
• Amelioration: Improvement with rest and cooling measures.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHER DRUGS

• Compare with: Quinine (for its effects on fever), Bryonia, Nux vomica (for its action on the digestive system).

DOSE

• Mother tincture: 10-15 drops, 2-3 times daily.
• 2x potency: 3-5 drops, 2-3 times daily.
• 3x potency: 3-5 drops, 2-3 times daily.
• 6x potency: 3-5 drops, 2-3 times daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Tinospora cordifolia used for?

• Tinospora cordifolia is used for treating fevers, jaundice, rheumatism, skin diseases, secondary syphilis, and genito-urinary problems such as gonorrhea and dysuria.

Q: How does Tinospora cordifolia help in fevers?

• It acts as an antipyretic, reducing fever by enhancing the immune response and promoting the removal of toxins.

Q: Can Tinospora cordifolia be used for urinary infections?

• Yes, it helps in managing urinary infections characterized by frequent urination and burning sensations.

Q: What are the side effects of Tinospora cordifolia?

• Generally, it is well-tolerated, but in rare cases, it may cause gastrointestinal disturbances.

Q: What is the recommended dosage for chronic conditions?

• For chronic conditions, the potencies of 2x, 3x, and 6x are recommended, depending on the severity and specific symptoms.