Tinospora Cordifolia (Guduchi): An Updated Pharmacognostic, Phytochemical and Mechanistic Pharmacological Perspective with Emphasis on Standardization and Safety

Abstract

Guduchi is one of the most highly valued and common herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. It has a rich history in the Indian sub-continent where it has been used and written about for thousands of years it is considered one of the best Rasayana and is usual in its potent versatility. The last decade has seen a global upsurge in the use of traditional medicine and complementary and alternative medicines in both developed and developing countries. Various forms of traditional, complementary and alternative medicines are playing a progressively more important role in health care globally and therefore their safety, efficacy, and quality control are important concerns today. Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers. (Amruthavalli or Guduci), is one of the most versatile rejuvenative herbs widely used as a traditional medicine. It is mentioned in various classical texts of Indian Medicinal Systems and is cultivated throughout the Indian subcontinent and China. The therapeutic efficacy makes for its extensive usage in various systems of medicine. Pre-clinical and clinical pharmacological studies affirm the importance of this herb. The notable and important medicinal properties reported are anti-diabetic, anti-periodic, anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-oxidant, anti-allergic, anti-stress, anti-leprotic, anti-malarial, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory and anti-neoplastic activities. Tinospora cordifolia (TC) contain various chemical constituents belonging to different classes such as alkaloids, diterpenoid lactones, glycosides and steroids.