The useful constituents of guggul, gugulipid and guggulsterone, are derived from Commiphora molmol. Guggul may lower serum cholesterol levels by as much as 24%, and triglyceride levels by as much as 23%, by increasing the hepatic binding of LDL cholesterol. Its effects on HDL cholesterol levels are variable, either increasing or decreasing. Guggulsterone stimulates the thyroid gland, has anti-inflammatory properties, may help in weight reduction, and protects against myocardial necrosis resulting from drug toxicity. Guggul is available as capsules and tablets. Common trade names include Guggulow, Guggul Raj, Gugulmax, Gugulplus, and Ultra Guggulow.

Reported uses

Guggul has used pnmanly for Its ability to decrease serum cholesterol levels. It's also used to treat atherosclerosis and high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels. In Ayurvedic medicine, it's used to treat arthritis and to aid in weight loss.

Administration

Daily dose of guggulsterone is 25 mg three times a day, is provided in a 500-mg tablet standardized to contain 5% guggulsterone.

Hazards

Guggul has been associated with diarrhea, anorexia, abdominal pain, and rash. There is potential reduction in the bioavailability of single doses of diltiazem and propranolol when these drugs are given with guggul. The effects of thyroid drugs may be altered because guggul stimulates the thyroid gland. Guggul's lipid-lowering effect is increased when it's used with garlic.

Guggul shouldn't be used by patients with liver or kidney disease. Pregnant and breast-feeding patients should also avoid use.

Clinical considerations

Monitor patient with thyroid disease or taking a thyroid supplement because guggul stimulates the thyroid gland.

Guggul may interfere with the intended therapeutic effect of conventional drugs.

Only preparations with standardized amounts of guggulsterone should be used.

Use should be limited to 12 to 24 Weeks.

Monitor serum cholesterol levels.

If patient is pregnant or breast-feeding, or is planning to become pregnant, instruct her not to use guggul.

Tell patient that herb isn't a substitute for healthy eating and exercise.

Advise patient to keep guggul out of reach of children and pets.

Tell patient to notify pharmacist of any herbal or dietary supplement that he's taking when obtaining a new prescription.

Advise patient to consult his health care provider before using an herbal preparation because a conventional treatment with proven efficacy may be available.

Research summary

Although the mechanism is unclear, studies show that guggul stimulates the thyroid gland, which may account for its ability to lower serum cholesterol.

Research A double blind, place bo-controlled study of guggul's effects on reducing cholesterol included 61 individuals who were followed for 24 weeks. After 12 weeks of following a healthy diet, half the participants received placebo and the other half received guggul at a dose providing 100 mg of guggulsterones daily. The results after 24 weeks of treatment showed that the treated group experienced an 11.7% decrease in total cholesterol, along with a 12.7% decrease in LDL cholesterol; a 12% decrease in triglycerides; and an 11.1 % decrease in the total cholesterol/HDL cholesterol ratio. These results were significantly better than those seen in the placebo group.