Guggul Extract

In use in the Indian subcontinent for over 2000 years, guggul extract is a form of gum resin derived from the Commiphora Mukul tree, native to northern India. Also known as guggulolipid, guggulu or gum guggul, it has been used extensively to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Its effectiveness has been linked to a steroid component called guggulsterone, which seems to contribute to its medicinal properties. Among the various medical conditions for which Guggul has been used to treat are arthritis, obesity, skin diseases, menstrual and digestive problems. The tree from which this resin is extracted resembles the myrrh, which has long been associated with healing properties; evidence to this effect can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians. In recent times, this component of Ayurveda has been brought to the west to work its holistic healing on many of the ailments that plague the world.

Benefits

The most talked about benefit of guggul extract is its cholesterol lowering ability. However, this particular trait has been the subject of a good deal of debate. Studies have shown that it has been successful in lowering levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in people with high cholesterol levels, without any change in their diet or performing any exercise. However parallel studies have also claimed that there were no appreciable changes in cholesterol levels in a similar study conducted on another set of people. Having said that, several American researchers and doctors have come out in support for its beneficial effects on cholesterol levels and it has been in use in Indian medicine for quite a while. One study in particular, reported that guggulsterone, the active ingredient in guggul extract was responsible for the inhibition of certain receptor cells in the liver, affecting the manner in which cholesterol is metabolized. It has also been found to boost levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.

Additional benefits include the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis, a condition in which arteries become thickened owing to the accumulation of cholesterol. Guggulsterone's cholesterol reducing abilities contribute to this effect. It also has been beneficial in the treatment of male impotence and erectile dysfunction. This compound has also been found to enhance the functioning of thyroid gland which in turn, produces hormones that control the rate of metabolism. This can help in weight loss and regulation. Some studies have shown that guggul extract raises the levels of the T3 hormone, which speeds up the rate of metabolism, further promoting weight loss. It has also shown antioxidant properties. Apart from these, Ayurveda uses this extract to increase production of white blood cells to combat infection as well as for problems with the urinary tract, menstrual cycle and severe menstrual cramps.

Side Effects

While side effects of guggul are relatively rare, in certain cases, it may induce headaches, nausea or skin rashes. In addition, it is not recommended in the following cases:

• For pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
• For those on Coenzyme Q10 and statins for treatment of cholesterol - guggul extract has been found to interfere with the working of this class of drugs prescribed for lowering cholesterol levels and the mixing of these two is not recommended.
• Some guggul supplements contain caffeine, which may serve as an irritant to people who are intolerant to it.
• For people who are on antidepressants, corticosteroids and certain other groups of drugs and medication.

Guggul extract has been in use for many years in Ayurveda for the treatment of a variety of conditions as described above. It is a natural herbal remedy and has been used in holistic healing practice for a number of years with good results. This gum resin has also shown promising properties in fighting tumors and certain cancer cells. As medical research advances in leaps and bounds, it's only a matter of time before it gets acknowledged the world over and starts being used as a health supplement.