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Guggul Extract

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- High cholesterol and triglycerides - Skin problems - Arthritis - Obesity - Thyroid support

Clinical Applications/Research

Guggul

Guggul, also known as gugulipid, is a sticky gum resin from the mukul myrrh tree, and has been used throughout India in Ayurvedic medicine. One of its primary uses is to lower serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It has also been used in the treatment of skin problems, obesity and arthritis. The Indian government has approved guggul for its use in the treatment of high cholesterol. The active constituent of guggul is the guggulsterones, which provide the lipid-lowering effects. Guggul has been shown to lower LDL and VLDL cholesterol levels, otherwise known as the “bad cholesterol”, and raise HDL cholesterol, otherwise known as the “good cholesterol”. The action of guggul is as an antioxidant, which helps protect the LDL cholesterol from oxidation. Guggul has also been shown to decrease platelet stickiness, which also helps reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. One study showed that guggul extract had similar effects on lowering cholesterol as the drug clofibrate (Malhortra, et al, Long-term clinical studies on the hypolipidemic effect of Comminphora mukul (guggul) and clofibrate. Ind J Med Res 1977; 65:390-95). Guggulsterone has been shown to exhibit thyroid-stimulating activity (Tripathi YB, et all Thyroid stimulating actions of z-guggulsterone obtained from Commiphora mukul. Planta Med 1984;1:78). It has also been shown to exert a protective effect on cardiac enzymes and the cytochrome P450 system against drug-induced myocardial necrosis (Kaul S, et al. Cardiac sarcolemma enzymes and liver microsomal cytochrome P450 in isoproterenol treated rats. Indian J Med Res 1989;90:62).

Suggested Dosage

1-2 grams daily or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Guggul extracts appear to be safe. Safety in young children, pregnancy, or those with severe kidney or liver disease has not been established.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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