Potential of Guduchi-Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers. (.) in the management of lifestyle disorders: a comprehensive review

Introduction: Lifestyle disorders such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders (COPD), stroke, and cancer pose a great risk to mankind aggravating cardiovascular manifestations leading to increased morbidity and mortality in population. The major causes of such disorders include faulty lifestyle comprising of a variety of factors including smoking, alcohol consumption, use of tobacco and other narcotic substances, sedentary lifestyle, and stress. Ayurveda promotes the use of potent herbs or herbal combination for the mitigation of various disorders. Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia Willd. Miers. (.)) is one such herb widely used in Ayurveda in the preventive and treatment process of almost all the diseases. It is therefore also indicated for the purpose of prevention, management of lifestyle disorders, and the complications of the same. Materials and Methods: This review tries to focus on the applications of this multidimensional herb in the management of lifestyle disorders such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, cardiovascular disorders, COPD, and cancer. The relevant research by the contemporary sciences on the subject along with classical Ayurveda text-based references and indications of Guduchi in related conditions according to Ayurveda is discussed in the article. Discussion: The literary review suggests that many research works have been conducted in this arena to prove the efficacy of this wonder herb, and its constituents are also mentioned to underline the evidences. The references from the Ayurveda texts also underline the multidimensional activity of Guduchi on different body Strotasa. Conclusion: The ancient treasure of knowledge coupled with the scientific validation supports the multidimensional activity of Guduchi.