Guggul
Guggul
Guggul is also known as “Pura” which means “wards off disease”. It is used as a source of commercial “Gum guggul”. The major bioactive component of Guggul is oleo-gum-resin (a mixture of an oil and yellowish or brownish fluid secreted from the plant stem or bark). It is this oleo-gum resin that is said to have therapeutic benefits.
According to Ayurveda, Guggul is useful in weight management as it helps to improve metabolism and reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) by increasing the digestive fire. It also helps to reduce swelling, pain and stiffness in joints in case of osteoarthritis as well as rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. Guggul might also be helpful in managing blood cholesterol levels by lowering total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels.
Guggul can be taken in the form of powder, tablet or capsule to help reduce the production of sebum which inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria due to its antibacterial property.
Applying a paste of Guggul mixed in warm water on the joints helps to reduce joint pain.
It should be kept in mind that Guggul should always be chewed well before swallowing in order to get the maximum benefits[2].
According to Ayurveda, Guggul is useful in weight management as it helps to improve metabolism and reduce Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) by increasing the digestive fire. It also helps to reduce swelling, pain and stiffness in joints in case of osteoarthritis as well as rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. Guggul might also be helpful in managing blood cholesterol levels by lowering total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels.
Guggul can be taken in the form of powder, tablet or capsule to help reduce the production of sebum which inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria due to its antibacterial property.
Applying a paste of Guggul mixed in warm water on the joints helps to reduce joint pain.
It should be kept in mind that Guggul should always be chewed well before swallowing in order to get the maximum benefits[2].
What are the synonyms of Guggul?
Commiphora wightii, Pura, Mahisaksa, Kausika, Palankasa, Guggula, Gum-gugul, Indian Bdellium, Gugal, Guggal, Gugar, Kanthagana, Guggala, Mahishaksha guggulu, Guggulugida, Guggulu, Guggal Dhoop, Kanth Gan, Gulgulu, Mahishaksh, Mahisaksi Guggalu, Makishakshi guggulu, Guggipannu, Muqil (Shihappu)[1].
What is the source of Guggul?
Plant Based
Benefits of Guggul
Modern Science View
According to scientific research, Guggul may be ineffective in managing obesity. Although, traditionally it has been used to manage weight[12].
Ayurvedic View
An increase in weight is due to unhealthy food habits and lifestyle which leads to a weak digestive fire. This increases accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) causing an imbalance in Meda dhatu and thus resulting in obesity. Guggul might be useful to control obesity as it helps improve metabolism and reduce Ama by increasing digestive fire. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) nature. Guggul might also manage excess fat in the body due to its Lekhaniya (scraping ) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
3. Repeat daily to manage obesity.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
3. Repeat daily to manage obesity.
Modern Science View
Guggul may be useful in managing osteoarthritis due to its anti-inflammatory property. It reduces swelling, pain and stiffness thereby giving relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis[8][9].
Ayurvedic View
Guggul is useful to manage pain in osteoarthritis. According to Ayurveda, osteoarthritis occurs due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and is known as Sandhivata. It causes pain, swelling, and joint mobility. Guggul has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis-like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day to manage the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Modern Science View
Guggul contains certain components that have anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties. It suppresses the chemicals that lead to pain and inflammation in case of Rheumatoid arthritis[10][11].
Ayurvedic View
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is known as Aamavata in Ayurveda. Amavata is a disease in which vitiation of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama takes place in the joints. Amavata starts with a weak digestive fire which leads to accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This Ama is carried to different locations through Vata but instead of being absorbed, it gets accumulated in the joints. Guggul helps to reduce Ama due to its Ushna (hot) potency. Guggul has also Vata balancing property and thus gives relief from the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day to manage the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day to manage the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis.
Modern Science View
Guggul may be useful in managing high cholesterol. It contains a bioactive component that lowers total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad cholesterol) and triglycerides[6][7].
Ayurvedic View
Guggul might help manage normal cholesterol level. It improves metabolism by reducing Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This is due to its Ushna (hot) nature. It also removes excess cholesterol from the body due to its Lekhaniya (scraping ) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
Modern Science View
Guggul extract contains a bioactive component that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Guggul, when taken orally, reduces the production of sebum and inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Due to this, Guggul may be useful in managing the development of acne. It was seen in a study that Guggul works remarkably well in people with oily skin[3-5].
Ayurvedic View
A Kapha-Pitta dosha skin type can be prone to acne and pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha increases sebum production which clogs the pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. An aggravation of Pitta also causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Guggul helps to balance Kapha-Pitta because of Tridosha balancing property and reduces clogs and inflammation when taken orally.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
3. Repeat daily to control acne and pimples.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
2. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
3. Repeat daily to control acne and pimples.
How effective is Guggul?
Likely effective
Acne
Likely ineffective
Obesity
Insufficient evidence
High cholesterol, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis
FAQs about Guggul benefits
Precautions when using Guggul
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Consult your doctor while taking Guggul during breastfeeding[3].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
1. Guggul may interact with antihypertensive drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with antihypertensive drugs[3].
2. Guggul may interact with anticoagulants. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with anticoagulants[3].
3. Guggul may interact with anticancer drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with anticancer drugs[3].
4. Guggul may interact with anticoagulants. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with anticoagulants[3].
5. Guggul may interact with thyroid drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with thyroid drugs[3].
2. Guggul may interact with anticoagulants. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with anticoagulants[3].
3. Guggul may interact with anticancer drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with anticancer drugs[3].
4. Guggul may interact with anticoagulants. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with anticoagulants[3].
5. Guggul may interact with thyroid drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul along with thyroid drugs[3].
Patients with heart disease
Modern Science View
Guggul may increase the cholesterol level in the body. So, it is generally advisable to monitor your cholesterol level while taking Guggul if you have high cholesterol[3].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Consult your doctor while taking Guggul during pregnancy[3].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Stomach upset
2. Headache
3. Nausea
4. Vomiting
5. Loose stool
6. Diarrhea
7. Belching
8. Hiccups[3].
2. Headache
3. Nausea
4. Vomiting
5. Loose stool
6. Diarrhea
7. Belching
8. Hiccups[3].
severe medicine interaction
Modern Science View
Guggul may interact with contraceptive drugs. So, it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Guggul if you are on therapy of contraceptive drugs[3].
Recommended Dosage of Guggul
- Guggul Powder - 2-4 pinch powder twice a day.
- Guggul Tablet - 1-2 tablets once or twice a day.
- Guggul Capsule - 1-2 Capsules once or twice a day.
How to use Guggul
1. Guggul Powder
a. Take 2-4 pinch of Guggul powder.
b. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
2. Guggul Capsule
a. Take 1-2 of Guggul capsule.
b. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
3. Guggul Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
b. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
a. Take 2-4 pinch of Guggul powder.
b. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
2. Guggul Capsule
a. Take 1-2 of Guggul capsule.
b. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
3. Guggul Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Guggul tablet.
b. Swallow it with warm water 1-2 times a day.
Benefits of Guggul
1. Joint pain
Guggul helps to manage bone and joint pain when applied to the affected area. According to Ayurveda, the bones and joints are considered a site of Vata in the body. Pain in the joints is mainly due to Vata imbalance. Applying a paste of Guggul helps to reduce joint pain due to its Ushna (hot) potency and Vata balancing property.
Tips:
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Guggul powder.
b. Make a paste with warm water.
c. Apply on the affected area once a day.
d. Leave it for 1-2 hours.
e. Rinse off with plain water to control joint pain.
Guggul helps to manage bone and joint pain when applied to the affected area. According to Ayurveda, the bones and joints are considered a site of Vata in the body. Pain in the joints is mainly due to Vata imbalance. Applying a paste of Guggul helps to reduce joint pain due to its Ushna (hot) potency and Vata balancing property.
Tips:
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Guggul powder.
b. Make a paste with warm water.
c. Apply on the affected area once a day.
d. Leave it for 1-2 hours.
e. Rinse off with plain water to control joint pain.
Precautions when using Guggul
Side Effects
Modern Science View
1. Rash
2. Itching[3].
2. Itching[3].
Recommended Dosage of Guggul
- Guggul Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon powder once a day.
How to use Guggul
1. Guggul Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Guggul powder.
b. Make a paste with warm water.
c. Apply on the affected area one time a day
d. Leave it for 2-4 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Guggul powder.
b. Make a paste with warm water.
c. Apply on the affected area one time a day
d. Leave it for 2-4 hours.
e. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, Guggul may be useful in managing hypothyroidism. It increases the production of thyroid hormone by increasing thyroid function and also through some enzymatic reactions[13-15].
Modern Science View
Yes, Guggul may be good for the heart. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antilipidemic (lipid lowering) properties. It reduces the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad cholesterol) thereby preventing blockage in the arteries. Due to this, Guggul may be useful in preventing heart attacks and other heart abnormalities[16-18].
Ayurvedic View
Guggul helps to reduce the risk of heart disease by regulating cholesterol level. Guggul improves metabolism by reducing Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) due to its Ushna (hot) nature. It also helps to reduce excess cholesterol from the body due to its Lekhaniya (scraping ) property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Guggul may be good for the liver due to its hepatoprotective (liver protective) property. It increases the production of certain useful enzymes and enzymatic reactions[12][17].
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India. Part 1 Volume 1.
- Poonia P, Mittal S, Gupta V, et al.Gum Guggul: An Ayurvedic Boom.IJPPR.2014; 6(2); 347-354.
- WebMD.Guggul: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Patel MSD.A review on herbal drugs acting against Acne vulgaris.Pharm Sci Biosci Res.2015;5(2):165-171.
- Thappa DM, Dogra J.Nodulocystic acne: oral gugulipid versus tetracycline.J Dermatol.1994;21:729-31.
- Singh RB, Niaz MA, Ghosh S.Hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of commiphora mukul as an adjunct to dietary therapy in patients with hypercholesterolemia.Cardiovasc Drugs Ther.1994;8(4):659-664.
- Urizar NL, Moore DD.Gugulipid: a natural cholesterol-lowering agent.Annu Rev Nutr.2003;23:303-313.
- Singh BB, Mishra LC, Vinjamury SP et al.The effectiveness of Commiphora mukul for osteoarthritis of the knee: a outcomes study.Altern Ther Health Med.2003;9(3):74-79.
- Dut Jasuja N, Choudhary J, Sharama P et al.A review on bioactive compounds and medicinal uses of Commiphora mukul.J Plant Sci.2012;7(4):113-137.
- Chopra A, Saluja M, Tillu G.Ayurveda-modern medicine interface: a critical appraisal of studies of Ayurvedic medicines to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.J Ayurveda Integr Med.2010;1(3):190–198.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.