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Guggul is a resin which is produced by the stem of the Commiphora
mukul tree, a relatively small, thorny plant native to India.
Historically guggul has been used in connection with a wide variety
of conditions, including rheumatism and obesity. One of its primary
historical indications was for use with a condition known as
medoroga, a disease similar to the modern description of
atherosclerosis. Standardized guggul extracts are approved in India
for lowering elevated serum cholesterol and triglyceride
levels.
Guggul contains ketonic steroid compounds known as
guggulsterones which are believe to be responsible for guggul's
cholestrol- and triglyceride-lowering actions. Not only can guggul
lower cholestrol and triglyceride levels but it also lowers LDL and
VLDL cholesterols (the "bad cholesterols) while raising HDL
cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol).
Studies also show that
guggul may also decrease platelet stickiness whereby lowering the
risk of coronary artery disease.
Guggul for Weight
Loss
In some studies, guggul reportedly has shown to
increase the production of the thyroid hormone. Since this hormone
is involved in the cells’ breakdown of protein, fat, and
carbohydrates, theoretically this herb should promote weight loss.
However, more research is needed substantiate the effects of guggul
supplementation on weight loss.
Dosage and
Adminstration
Dosage recommendations for guggul are
usually based on guggulsterones concentration in the extract. A
typical dosage of guggulsterones is 25 mg three times per day. Most
extracts can be taken daily for 12 to 24 weeks for lowering high
cholesterol and/or triglycerides.
Possible Side
Effects
Studies have indicated that guggul can cause
side effects in some people, including diarrhea, anorexia, abdominal
pain, and skin rash. Modern extracts are more purified and fewer
side effects have been reported with long-term use. If you have
liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or diarrhea use caution
when taking this supplement.
Supporting
Literature
Satyavati GV. Gum guggul — The
success of an ancient insight leading to a modern discovery. Indian
J Med 1988;87:327–335. Nityanand S, Kapoor NK. Hypocholesterolemic
effect of Commiphora mukul resin. Indian J Experimental Biology
1971;9:367–377. Mester L, Mester M, Nityanand S. Inhibition of
platelet aggregation by guggulu steroids. Planta Medicine
1979;37:367–369.
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