Guggul Extract Benefits

Guggul or Commiphora wightii is a flowering plant, native to Central Asia, Northern India and Northern Africa. It is also known by the names of 'Guggulu' and Mukul myrrh, and it belongs to the plant family, Burseraceae. Guggul is a small tree or shrub, which secretes a yellowish resinous sap called 'gum guggul'. This gum guggul is known for several medical properties, and it has been a part of Indian Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, basically for treating several health conditions including, obesity, certain skin disorders and osteoarthritis. This gum guggul is widely used to make guggul extract, which is known as gugulipid or guggulipid. Though this extract is used in traditional medicine for healing a number of ailments, many of its benefits are yet to be established by concrete studies. Nevertheless, its popularity is increasing widely as an herbal remedy for some of the serious health problems of this century.

Why Guggul Extract is Good for You

Guggul extract, as we know is derived from the resinous sap of the Mukul myrrh plant. The main active ingredient of this herbal extract is 'Guggulsterones'. Along with this, some essential oils, myrcene and makulol are some other active ingredients found in guggul. Presence of all such compounds makes guggul one of the widely used herbal medicine in Ayurveda.

• Guggul is primarily known or its cholesterol lowering properties. A few researches conducted in this regard have revealed that guggul may lower the level of total cholesterol, as well as the level of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. It can increase the liver's ability to metabolize LDL cholesterol, and eliminate it from the circulation.
• It has been observed that guggul may increase the level of HDL cholesterol in the body, which is known for its benefits for heart health.
• A reduction in the level of LDL cholesterol and increase in HDL cholesterol can raise the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol, which in turn can provide protection against diseases like, atherosclerosis. Moreover, 'guggulsterone' found in guggul is a potent antioxidant that can prevent the oxidization of cholesterol and reduce the risk for heart disease.
• It can also lower the risk for the formation of blood clots. This can help to improve blood circulation in the body. It is also known for its blood purifying properties.
• It may help to prevent the accumulation of lipid in the body. It can stimulate the thyroid gland, and thus can increase the rate of metabolism. This may help to lose weight and prevent obesity.
• It may also prove effective in certain skin disorders, especially acne.
• Apart from these, it may be beneficial for relieving the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and it cam promote the health of the digestive system.

Side Effects of Guggul Extract

Guggul is usually considered as a safe herb. Occasionally, side effects like, diarrhea, belching, hiccups, headaches, vomiting and nausea can be experienced by some individuals. Some people can also experience skin rash and itching. Pregnant women are usually advised to avoid this herb, as it is known to promote menstrual discharge and stimulate uterine contraction. Similarly, breastfeeding women are also advised to stay away from this herb. Apart from these, individuals suffering from thyroid problems, as well as those with certain types of cancer like, breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis and uterine fibroids should not take it without the consent of their physician or health care provider.

To sum up, this herb needs to be taken with adequate care and precaution. Despite all its benefits, it is possible to encounter a few side effects, if this herbal extract is not administered with care and in the appropriate dosage. So, it is imperative to talk to a herbalist and your health care provider before considering to take guggul for therapeutic purposes.