In Vietnam, there is a type of vine that many people use to boost immunity and improve health. This is known as the Tinospora vine (also called Giloy in India).
Benefits of the Tinospora Vine
The Tinospora vine belongs to the genus Tinospora Miers. This plant is a climbing vine with slender stems, small, smooth leaves, and many veins. The flowers grow in simple clusters in the leaf axils, often blooming from November to December. Most parts of the Tinospora vine can be used to provide health benefits.
This vine is well-known in China and India. In Vietnam, it is less commonly found, mainly in An Giang, Can Tho, and Ninh Binh. As a result, many people are still unaware of its name or do not fully understand the benefits of this medicinal herb.
This plant is a climbing vine with slender stems, small, smooth leaves, and many veins.
Scientific studies indicate that the Tinospora vine contains many beneficial compounds such as berberine, glycosides, ginoserol, essential oils, fatty acids, tinosporid, tinosponon, picroretin, tembetarin, magnoflorine, arabinogalactan, and others, which help support health and prevent various dangerous diseases.
To understand all the benefits of this vine, let’s explore the following topics:
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
The first benefit of the Tinospora vine that you should know is its support in treating diabetes. Traditional Indian medicine has long used this herb to reduce blood sugar levels in patients. This effect is attributed to its ability to inhibit the enzymes glucosidase and amylase in the pancreas and saliva.
Moreover, this vine can stimulate insulin secretion to help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent free radicals, thereby reducing complications associated with diabetes.
Antioxidant Properties
Research on the extracts of the Tinospora vine has revealed its ability to combat free radicals such as hydroxyl radicals (OH), nitric oxide radicals (NO), superoxide anions (O2-), and peroxynitrite anions (ONOO-), effectively inhibiting oxidative substances and reducing the negative effects caused by free radicals.
This plant supports the treatment of diabetes.
Cancer Prevention
The anti-cancer effects of the Tinospora vine are primarily studied in animal models. The polysaccharides found in its extracts are evaluated for their ability to reduce the metastasis of malignant tumor cells. Some studies have also indicated that the Tinospora vine shows promise as an adjunct therapy for cancer chemotherapy.
Reduces Stress
Another benefit of this uniquely named vine is its ability to reduce stress and effectively relieve tension. Additionally, it helps improve concentration and enhance memory. Users can combine the Tinospora vine with various other herbs to significantly improve their health.
In traditional Eastern medicine, this plant is often used to prevent bone-related issues.
Bone and Joint Health
In traditional Eastern medicine, the Tinospora vine is often used alone or in combination with ginger to improve bone and joint health, as well as to prevent bone-related issues. Numerous studies have indicated its potential to help reduce osteoporosis by affecting mineral proliferation, migration, and differentiation within the bone structure.
Improves Memory and Other Benefits
For those with poor memory, you can use this vine to enhance brain function and improve memory over time.
Additionally, other benefits of the Tinospora vine include treating fever, malaria, sore throat, bloating, constipation, menstrual blockages, and irregular menstruation. Those with digestive issues, hemorrhoids, or indigestion can also benefit from this herb.
The Tinospora vine can treat fever, malaria, sore throat, bloating, constipation, and menstrual issues.
The anti-inflammatory properties of the Tinospora vine can also reduce arthritis and some symptoms of gout. In some areas, this plant is used to enhance vision.
Precautions When Using Tinospora
The Tinospora vine is a herb with numerous wonderful benefits; however, its use should be guided by a physician to ensure effectiveness and safety. Previous reports indicate that prolonged use of this vine may have adverse effects on the liver. Therefore, users should consult their doctor for examination and the best usage guidance.
