Contents:
Common Names | Parts Usually Used | Plant(s) & Culture | Where Found | Medicinal Properties | Aurvedic Aspects | Biochemical Information
Legends, Myths and Stories | Uses | Formulas or Dosages | How Sold | Warning | Resource Links
Scientific Names
- Commiphora mukul
- Commiphora wightii
- Balsamodendrum wightii
- Balsamodendrum mukul
Common Names
- Guggul
- Guggulu
- Gugal
- Guggal
- Gugul
- Indian Bdellium
- Indian Bdellium-Tree
- Mukul Myrrh Tree
- Devadhupa
- Koushika
- Palankasha
- Guggul Gum Resin
- Gum Guggal
- Gum Guggulu
- Gomme Guggul
- Gomme-Résine de Guggul
Parts Usually Used
The oily sap (gum resin) obtained from the bark through tapping
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Commiphora wightii is a small thorny tree, also known as the tree of myrrh, that grows as a shrub or small tree reaching a maximum height of 4 meters (13 feet). It has thin papery bark and thorny branches. The leaves are simple or trifoliate, with leaflets that are ovate, 1-5 cm long, 0.5-2.5 cm broad, and irregularly toothed.
The tree is gynodioecious, meaning some plants bear bisexual and male flowers, while others have female flowers. The individual flowers are red to pink with four small petals. The small round fruit are red when ripe. The plant prefers arid and semi-arid climates and is tolerant of poor soil conditions.
Guggul is harvested from the plant’s bark through the process of tapping to collect the gummy resin. The resin has a fragrance nearly identical to myrrh and closely resembles the fragrance of Opopanax resin. This is the same product that was known in Hebrew, ancient Greek, and Latin sources as bdellium.
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Where Found
The guggul tree is native to western India and grows in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. It was introduced westward from India to southern Pakistan and the Middle East. In India, it is found primarily in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan. The tree is commercially cultivated in India and Pakistan for its valuable resin.
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Medicinal Properties
Guggul possesses significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The resin contains plant steroids that may affect cholesterol levels in the body, with one of these substances potentially reducing redness and swelling from acne. Research has shown that guggul demonstrates hypolipidemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and antitumor activities.
Preclinical studies suggest that the active compound guggulsterone has cardioprotective effects and may help with cholesterol management, though human studies show mixed results. Some research indicates potential benefits for acne treatment by reducing inflammation and the number of acne relapses. Laboratory studies point to promise for guggul in slowing or stopping tumor growth, though more human research is needed.
The cardiovascular benefits are derived from multiple pharmacological activities, notably its effects on cholesterol metabolism, antioxidant properties, and anti-inflammatory actions. Guggulsterone has been found to potently inhibit the activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB), a critical regulator of inflammatory responses.
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Ayurvedic Aspects
Guggul has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine for nearly 3,000 years and is mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts dating back to 600 BC. In the traditional Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine, guggul has been a key component used to treat various disorders for thousands of years.
Traditional Ayurvedic Uses: The oleogum resin known as guggul has been traditionally used in Ayurveda to treat hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, rheumatism, obesity, arthritis, neurological diseases, hemorrhoids, urinary disorders, and various skin diseases. It is often used alone or in combination with other botanicals in traditional formulations.
Classical Preparations: Guggul is frequently incorporated into classical Ayurvedic formulations. One notable preparation is Yogaraj Guggul, which combines guggul with other herbs for enhanced therapeutic effects. The extract of gum guggul, called gugulipid, guggulipid, or guglipid, has been extensively used in both Unani and Ayurvedic medicine systems.
Processing and Purification: In Ayurvedic practice, guggul often undergoes purification processes to enhance its therapeutic properties and reduce potential side effects. The term “Guggulu Suddha” refers to purified guggul that has been processed according to traditional methods described in ancient texts.
Therapeutic Philosophy: According to Ayurvedic principles, guggul is believed to balance the doshas (body constitutions) and support the body’s natural healing processes. It is considered particularly effective for conditions related to ama (toxins) and for supporting metabolism and circulation.
Traditional Preparation Methods: In traditional practice, guggul is often combined with other herbs to create synergistic formulations. The resin can be processed into various forms including tablets, powders, and medicated oils depending on the intended therapeutic application.
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Biochemical Information
The primary bioactive constituent responsible for guggul’s therapeutic effects is guggulsterone, a steroid compound isolated from the resin. Over a hundred metabolites of various chemical compositions have been reported from different parts of the plant, including leaves, stem, latex, root, and fruit samples.
Key Active Compounds:
- Guggulsterone: The main bioactive steroid compound, consisting of Z-guggulsterone and E-guggulsterone isomers
- Quinic acid: Found in high concentrations in fruits and leaves
- Myo-inositol: Present in significant amounts in fruits and leaves
- Various plant steroids: Multiple steroid compounds that may affect cholesterol metabolism
Mechanism of Action:
- FXR Antagonism: Guggulsterone acts as an antagonist at the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a key transcriptional regulator for cholesterol and bile acid homeostasis
- BSEP Upregulation: Guggulsterone upregulates the bile salt export pump (BSEP), an efflux transporter responsible for removing cholesterol metabolites and bile acids from the liver
- NF-kappaB Inhibition: Potent inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB activation, contributing to anti-inflammatory effects
- Nuclear Receptor Activation: Activates nuclear receptors including estrogen receptor alpha, pregnane X receptor, and progesterone receptor
- CYP3A Induction: May induce CYP3A genes, affecting drug metabolism
Legends, Myths and Stories
Guggul has a rich history dating back thousands of years and was known to ancient civilizations. The resin was the same product known in Hebrew, ancient Greek, and Latin sources as bdellium, which was commonly used in incense and perfumes for centuries.
In ancient times, guggul was highly valued not only for its medicinal properties but also for its aromatic qualities. The fragrant resin was burned as incense in religious and spiritual ceremonies, and its distinctive aroma made it a prized component in perfumes and aromatic preparations.
The tree’s association with myrrh, another biblically significant resin, has given it spiritual and cultural importance throughout history. Traditional knowledge about guggul has been passed down through generations of Ayurvedic practitioners and continues to be valued in modern herbal medicine.
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Uses
Guggul has been traditionally and modernly used for a wide range of health conditions, though scientific evidence varies for different applications:
Cardiovascular Health:
- High cholesterol and hypercholesterolemia (mixed research results)
- Atherosclerosis prevention
- Cardiovascular protection
Metabolic Disorders:
- Obesity and weight management (limited evidence)
- Metabolic syndrome support
Inflammatory Conditions:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- General inflammatory conditions
- Rheumatism
Skin Conditions:
- Acne treatment (some evidence for reducing inflammation and relapses)
- Various skin diseases
- Topical applications for skin health
Other Traditional Uses:
- Hemorrhoids
- Urinary tract disorders
- Neurological diseases
- Digestive disorders
Aromatic and Spiritual Uses:
- Incense burning (dhoop form burned over hot coals)
- Perfume and fragrance applications
- Religious and spiritual ceremonies
- Incense sticks and dhoop cones
Research Areas:
- Cancer research (laboratory studies show promise)
- Tumor growth inhibition
- Antioxidant applications
Formulas or Dosages
General Dosage Guidelines:
- Standard dose: 0.5-1 gram by mouth three times daily
- Duration: Up to 24 weeks for safety, with some studies extending to 75 weeks
- Maximum studied duration: Up to 6 months in safety studies
Traditional Ayurvedic Preparations:
- Yogaraj Guggul: Classical formulation combining guggul with other herbs
- Gugulipid/Guggulipid: Standardized extract used in clinical studies
- Guggulu Suddha: Purified guggul processed according to traditional methods
Available Forms:
- Capsules and tablets
- Standardized extracts
- Raw resin
- Powdered preparations
- Combination formulations with other herbs
Important Notes:
- Optimal doses have not been definitively established for specific conditions
- Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely
- Consultation with healthcare providers is recommended before use
- Individual response to therapy may vary significantly
How Sold
Guggul is commonly available as a herbal supplement in various forms including capsules, tablets, and extracts. It can be found in health food stores, online retailers, and specialty Ayurvedic medicine suppliers. The gum can also be purchased in a loosely packed form called dhoop, which is traditional Indian incense burned over hot coals. Additionally, it is sold as incense sticks and dhoop cones for direct burning.
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Warning
General Safety: Guggul is possibly safe when used for up to 24 weeks in appropriate doses, but safety for longer periods requires further study.
Common Side Effects:
- Bitter taste when ingested
- Stomach upset and gastrointestinal discomfort
- Headache
- Mild nausea and vomiting
- Hiccups and belching
- Loose stools
- Allergic skin rashes
Serious Contraindications:
- Pregnancy: Likely unsafe – may stimulate the uterus and cause miscarriage
- Breastfeeding: Safety not established; avoid use
- Bleeding disorders: Can slow blood clotting, increasing bleeding risk
- Surgery: Stop use at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgery due to bleeding risk
- Severe liver or kidney disease: Avoid use
Hormone-Related Conditions:
- Breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer
- Endometriosis or uterine fibroids
- Any condition that might be worsened by estrogen exposure
- Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)
Major Drug Interactions:
- Estrogens: May increase estrogen side effects
- Birth control pills: May increase side effects
- Blood thinners: Increased bleeding risk (warfarin, aspirin, NSAIDs)
- Tamoxifen: May decrease effectiveness
- Thyroid hormones: May increase effects and side effects
- CYP3A4 substrates: May affect medication metabolism
- Diltiazem and Propranolol: May decrease absorption and effectiveness
- Rosuvastatin: May increase absorption and side effects
Herbal Interactions to Avoid:
- Blood-thinning herbs: Ginkgo, turmeric, angelica, garlic, ginger
- Hormone-affecting herbs: Black cohosh, flaxseed, soy
- Hormone replacement therapy
Serious Adverse Events (Case Reports):
- Contact dermatitis from topical products
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Acute hepatic failure requiring transplant (in combination products)
Special Populations:
- Safety in children has not been confirmed
- Not recommended for individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers
- Caution advised for those with thyroid disorders
Conservation Note: Due to overharvesting for traditional medicine, Commiphora wightii has become endangered and is listed on the IUCN Red List of threatened species. Sustainable sourcing and conservation efforts are important considerations when using guggul products.
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Resource Links
Healthline – What Is Guggul Used for, And Can It Benefit Your Health?
WebMD – Guggul – Uses, Side Effects, and More
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center – Guggul
Wikipedia – Commiphora wightii
