What is Guggul?

Guggul is a dietary supplement that is made from the sap of a Commiphora mukul tree, also known as the mukul myrrh tree. It can be used as an acne treatment or to help lower cholesterol and triglycerides. Some studies show that it may have some effect on osteoarthritis and may also assist with weight loss.

The Commiphora mukul tree is a small bushlike tree native to India. Its sap is used to make a powdered or liquid extract. This extract, also known as Ayurveda, is a traditional ingredient in ancient Indian medicine. An ancient Ayurvedic text called the Sushrita Samhita lists guggul as a treatment for rheumatism, obesity, and heart disease. In modern India, the extract is used as a treatment for high cholesterol and elevated levels of triglycerides.

Triglycerides are the physical form of fat in food and the body. When a person eats, calories that are not immediately used for energy are converted into triglycerides, which are then stored in fat cells. If the body makes too many triglycerides, coronary artery disease may develop. Guggul can keep the body from doing this. As a side effect, it may cause weight loss in patients.

The dietary supplement may also help normalize cholesterol levels and help those at risk for heart disease. Some studies have shown that guggul lowers low density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), which are known as bad cholesterols. Guggul extract helps keep LDL from oxidizing, which helps to prevent heart disease. The supplement may also help raise levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL), which is known as good cholesterol.

Guggul can also be used to combat acne. Acne is a skin condition caused by inflamed glands on the face, back, and sometimes other parts of the body. When compared to the common acne treatment drug tetracycline, guggul performs equally well in treating acne. Some people prefer the supplement to tetracycline because it is an all-natural medicine.

As long as the guggul extract is well purified, patients should suffer few, if any, side effects from taking the supplement. When using an extract that has not been purified, some patients report gastrointestinal problems and rash. Rash sometimes occurs even when using the purified extract.

People with existing gastrointestinal conditions, such as ulcerative colitis, should not use guggul, as it may worsen these conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing are advised to not use the dietary supplement. Patients should always consult a doctor before using this dietary supplement.