Guggul or Guggulu is an oleo gum resin extracted in the form of exudate from the plant stem of Commiphora species - Commiphora wightii, Commiphora mukul, Commiphora molmol, and Commiphora abyssinica.
Commiphora species belong to the family of Burseraceae.
Commiphora species are native to dry regions of northern India, northern Africa, and central Asia.[1]
Guggul is known by various names like gugar, Indian bdellium, gugal, devadhupa, guggala and gukkal.
As a traditional medicine, guggul was the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, arthritis, and inflammation.
Recent studies have demonstrated various pharmacological properties of guggul that might help in the treatment of ailments like cardiovascular disorders, free radical-induced organ damage, tumor growth, insulin resistance, etc.
The key active constituents of guggul are phytosterols, flavonoids, terpenes, guggultetrols, lignans, carbohydrates, and amino acids. [2]
Of all, the major active constituents of guggul are guggulsterones. There are two forms of guggulsterones: E-guggulsterone and Z-guggulsterone.
These guggulsterones exhibit multiple pharmacological activities such as hypolipidemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-coagulant and cardioprotective properties.[3]
Guggulsterones are found to regulate thyroid activity and tumor growth and thereby support overall wellness.
| Product | #Capsules | Servings | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Himalaya Herbal Healthcare Guggul[amazon fields="B00B8Z296O" value="thumb" image_size="medium" image_align="center"] |
60 | 30 | |
Banyan Botanical Yogaraj Guggul[amazon fields="B000Q46VJO" value="thumb" image_size="medium" image_align="center"] |
90 | 45 | |
Ayur Sante Guggul[amazon fields="B003NZ2D4A" value="thumb" image_size="medium" image_align="center"] |
60 | 60 | |
Banyan Botanical Guggul[amazon fields="B0058AAHQO" value="thumb" image_size="medium" image_align="center"] |
90 | 45 | |
Carlyle Guggul Extract[amazon fields="B07CGRWDX8" value="thumb" image_size="medium" image_align="center"] |
180 | 180 | |
Bestvite Guggul Extract[amazon fields="B009M63ORY" value="thumb" image_size="medium" image_align="center"] |
120 | 120 |
Reviews of the Best Guggul Supplements
Here are Some of the Best Guggul Supplements available in the Market recommended by the Experts.
Himalaya Herbal Healthcare 750mg Guggul Capsules
[amazon fields="B00B8Z296O" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center"]Himalaya is a family-owned supplement brand founded by M. Manal in 1930.
The company has a line of time-honored herbals, body care products, and formula produced to improve the wellness and health of people.
Himalaya guggul capsule is potent, non-GMO and vegetarian-friendly.
It contains pure guggul extract with no additives or animal-based ingredients like soy, gelatin, wheat, egg, etc. Guggul is a yellowish resin extracted from the Mukul myrrh plant, native to Asia.
This supplement helps maintain healthy cholesterol level, prevents acne breakouts and aids in weight loss.
Each pill delivers about 750mg of pure standardized guggul extract. It is produced in a cGMP compliant facility and tested for strength and safety.
Key Nutrients of the Supplements are :
Pros and Cons
- Easy to swallow
- Suitable for vegetarians
- Helps with acne
- Great price
- One needs to take several capsules to get the right dose
- It may cause nausea or stomach upset in some people
Banyan Botanicals Yogaraj Guggulu Tablets
[amazon fields="B000Q46VJO" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center"]Now a major provider of Ayurvedic herbs and products, Banyan Botanicals was launched in a single room by Kevin Casey and Scott Cote in 1996.
The New Mexico-based company has a wide range of herbals and natural formula sold at affordable prices.
Yogaraj Guggulu tablets give mobility and comfort to dry, stiffened joints and relieve the pain of sore tendons, nerves, and muscles.
A blend of medicinal herbs, namely triphala, chitrak, and guggulu, this Ayurvedic balancing formula deeply penetrates the tissue, removing deep-seated vata and nourishing the system.
It is made with well-sourced, organic ingredients and good for promoting the health of the muscles, joints and the body as a whole.
It comes with a 100% satisfaction or money-back guarantee.
Key Nutrients of the Supplements are :
Pros and Cons
- Contains all-natural ingredients
- Provides pain relief
- No side effects
- A bit pricey
- Not effective for some users
Ayursante 750mg Guggul Extract Capsules
[amazon fields="B003NZ2D4A" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center"]Based in Fremont, California, AyurSante offers a comprehensive line of Ayurvedic products, massage oils, and herbal soaps that can help people achieve and maintain optimal health they deserve.
Keep your cholesterol level in check with AyurSante guggul capsules.
Also referred to as Indian Bdellium, guggul is a natural resin obtained from Mukul myrrh plant found in the Asian continent.
This herbal supplement also helps fight acne, boosts energy and supports weight loss.
Each capsule offers 750mg of pure standardized guggul extract, containing 10 percent guggulsterones. A bottle consists of 60 veggie capsules, enough for 60 servings.
Key Nutrients of the Supplements are :
Pros and Cons
- Good for vegetarians
- Easy to take
- Inexpensive
- Helps people with hypothyroidism
- Not so good smell
- Not effective for everyone
Banyan Botanicals Kanchanar Guggulu Tablets
[amazon fields="B0058AAHQO" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center"]Here is another guggul supplement from Banyan Botanical. It is a powerful combo of several Indian traditional herbs, including triphala, trikatu, kanchanar back, and guggulu.
This herbal tablet is known for its ability to detoxify the body, help lose weight and support healthy hormonal levels. One bottle houses 90 pills, containing pure, organic formulation.
Key Nutrients of the Supplements are :
Pros and Cons
- Not difficult to swallow
- Can be used by vegetarians
- Great for digestive health
- A little bit pricey for the quantity
- Does not work for everyone
Carlyle 750mg Guggul Extract 180 Capsules
[amazon fields="B07CGRWDX8" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center"]Established back in 1971, Carlyle is a leading brand with over forty years of experience in the supplement industry.
The family-owned company is a major producer of nutritional and health products, including minerals, vitamins, herbals, etc.
Carlyle brings to you guggul extract in quick release, easy-to-take capsules. Guggul, a natural gum resin secreted by the thorny Mukul tree native to India, is a widely revered herbal supplement for its health benefits.
This natural detoxifier helps maintain cholesterol level within its healthy range, promotes digestive health, prevents acne breakouts and balances the thyroid hormone.
Offering 750mg per capsule, Carlyle guggul extract is standardized and 100-percent pure, free of GMOs, preservatives, gluten, soy, and other animal-based ingredients.
Key Nutrients of the Supplements are :
Pros and Cons
- Easy to swallow (small-sized)
- No harmful ingredients
- Great price
- Tolerable taste
- It may cause nausea or stomach issues
Bestvite 500mg Guggul Extract 120 Veggie Capsules
[amazon fields="B009M63ORY" value="thumb" image_size="large" image_align="center"]Headquartered in California, USA, Bestvite is a trusted manufacturer of vitamins, functional foods, and dietary supplements.
The nutrition company is on a mission to help you in your journey to a healthier lifestyle.
Bestvite guggul extract capsule is one of the best available on the market.
It produced using the patented gugulipid ingredients, standardized to contain 2.5 percent guggulsterones.
This supplement can help maintain healthy cholesterol level, increase energy, detoxify the body while preventing acne breakouts.
Each pill delivers 500mg of pure guggul extract, containing no additives, fillers, gluten or GMO ingredients. It is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Key Nutrients of the Supplements are :
Pros and Cons
- Easy to swallow
- Devoid of gluten, GMOs or artificial chemicals
- Affordable price
- Good for vegetarians and vegans
- It is not effective for some users
- May cause nausea
Health Benefits of Guggul
1. Guggul Aids In The Regulation Of Blood Cholesterol Levels
Guggul blocks cholesterol synthesis in the liver by regulating the activity of HMD-CoA and lipogenic enzymes.
It is also reported to increase the fecal and biliary excretion of cholesterol. [4][5]
Confidence Level: High
In a placebo-controlled study, 8-week oral supplementation of 1500mg/day gugulipid reduced the LDL-cholesterol levels and increased HDL cholesterol levels by 60% in hypercholesterolemic patients and hyperlipidaemic patients.
A significant decrease in the levels of serum triglycerides was also observed. [6]
A study in 2009 reported that consuming 2160mg guggul a day for 12 weeks resulted in reduced total cholesterol levels. [7]
2. Guggul Helps In The Treatment Of Various Inflammatory Disorders
Guggul exhibits anti-inflammatory activity by blocking the activation of inflammatory cytokine NF-κB and its target molecules. [8]
According to the studies, Z-guggulsterone suppresses the production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) production in the cells, which have a key role in the inflammatory response. [9]
Guggul is reported to improve the conditions of inflammatory disorders like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and inflammatory bowel syndrome.
Confidence Level: Moderate
A study in 2003 reported that consuming 500mg of guggul thrice a day for two months, improved arthritis symptoms like pain, stiffness and hampered joint functions in older patients diagnosed with knee OA. [10]
3. Guggul Protects The Body Cells Against Oxidative Damage
Guggulsterones are found to exhibit potent free-radical scavenging and metal-chelating properties that have multiple cytoprotective benefits.
The antioxidant properties of guggul help in protecting the internal organs against oxidative damage.
Confidence Level: Moderate
In a randomized double-blind study, gugulipid was reported to reduce the levels of lipid peroxides, which are the key markers of oxidative stress, in patients with hypercholesterolemia. [11]
A study has reported that guggul’s antioxidant properties may help in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other oxidative stress-related disorders. [12] [13]
4. Guggul May Help In Promoting Skin Health
Confidence Level: Moderate
In a randomized study, it was found that 90-day oral supplementation of 25mg guggulsterone was able to reduce the severity of nodulocystic acne in individuals with oily skin texture. [14]
In an in vitro study conducted in 2012, it was found that guggul and triheptanoin in combination stimulated type I collagen synthesis, reduced skin structure damage and the visibility of wrinkles. [15]
5. Guggul Promotes Cardiac Health By Preventing Clotting In The Blood Vessels
Guggul’s anticoagulant properties prevent clogging of arteries, which leads to various cardiovascular disorders like myocardial infarction and thromboembolism.
Blood clots can cause brain injury and pulmonary embolism too.
Click here for more information on embolism and its ill effects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6LZqFNdL7N4
Confidence Level: Moderate
With an administration of 1g guggul per day for 30 days, increased fibrinolytic activity or reduced clotting was observed in both healthy individuals and patients suffering from coronary artery disease. [16]
6. Guggul Has Potent Anti-Cancer Properties
Guggul exhibits anti-cancer activity against various types of cancer, such as breast cancer, leukemia, lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, esophageal cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer. [17]
Guggul’s key mechanisms of tumor suppression are blocking the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis) [18], suppressing cell growth and inducing cell death. [19] [20]
Confidence Level: Moderate
In vitro and in vivo studies conducted on guggul have reported on its ability to reduce the cell proliferation [21], cell motility, and cell division and inducing apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cell lines.
Guggul is also observed to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic drugs such as gemcitabine. [22]
Studying guggul’s impact on breast cancer, it was observed that guggul acts on the tumor cells by blocking the NF-κB pathway [23], which is highly activated in breast cancer. [24]
7. Guggul May Help In Reducing Blood Sugar Levels
Guggul supplementation prevents pancreatic cell damage. It is also found to address insulin resistance by stabilizing the carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in the body. [25]
Studies have also reported its role in decreasing the plasma glucose levels and increasing insulin sensitivity. [26]
Confidence Level: Low
A study in 2017 reported that guggul supplementation could reduce the plasma glucose levels along with cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and prevent diabetes-induced abnormalities in Wistar albino rats. [27]
8. Guggul May Help In The Treatment Of Hypothyroidism
Guggul supplementation boosts the T3 hormone levels by stimulating the conversion of T4 to T3 hormone. [28]
Guggul is also able to enhance the iodine-uptake, which is crucial for optimum functioning of the thyroid gland. [29]
Thyroid stimulating activity of guggulsterone is not mediated by the pituitary gland. [30]
Confidence Level: Low
Supplementation of 1mg/100g body weight guggul is reported to enhance the iodine uptake by the thyroid gland, and stimulate thyroid enzymes such as thyroid peroxidase and protease in albino rats. [31]
9. Guggul May Support Liver Health
Guggul supplements are helpful in protecting the liver cells against oxidative damage. [32] It is also reported to reverse the degeneration of hepatocytes.
Guggul extracted from Commiphora opobalsamum is reported to reduce the levels of transaminase and alkaline phosphatase enzymes and increased the levels of sulfhydryls, which are hepatoprotective in function. [33]
Confidence Level: Low
In 2011, an animal study reported that 60-day supplementation of 200mg/kg guggul could reduce the hepatic liver peroxidation and protein oxidation, and protect the liver cells against oxidative stress. [34]
Recommended Dosage
400-500mg of guggul three times a day is considered as a standard dose.
In the case of isolated guggulsterone, the recommended dosage would be 25mg three times a day.
It is advised that guggul shall be taken along with the meals, due to guggul’s tendency to trigger gastrointestinal disturbances.
Precautions
Adverse Effects
Guggul is generally regarded as safe when administered as per the recommended dosage.
In a few cases, adverse effects like gastrointestinal disturbances, thyroid problems, irregular menstruations, fatigue, skin rash, and itching have been reported.
Long term usage up to 24 weeks - 75 weeks has been proven to be effective and safe.
Safety During Pregnancy, Lactation, and Childhood
Pregnancy and Lactation: Due to guggul’s estrogen-mimicking abilities, it is safe to avoid guggul supplements during pregnancy [35] and lactation. [36]
Its blood-thinning properties may increase the menstrual flow and stimulate the uterus, which in turn may have a negative impact on the pregnancy.
Childhood: There is no sufficient information on guggul’s safety among children and adolescents. Due to its estrogen-mimicking properties, it is advised that children and adolescents avoid guggul consumption.
Known Medical Conditions
Individuals with bleeding disorders, hormone-sensitive conditions such as PCOD, endometriosis, menstrual problems shall avoid guggul consumption.
Individuals with hampered thyroid functions or any other known medical conditions shall consult a health professional before using guggul supplements.
Overdose
Guggul overdose does not cause any life-threatening symptoms.
High doses of 6000mg/kg of guggul are reported to cause a few adverse effects such as upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, hampered menstrual cycle, skin allergies, etc.
Drug Interactions
Guggul has moderate interactions with the following drugs. [37]
Propranolol (Beta chain blocker): Guggul is reported to reduce the absorption of propranolol, which leads to reduced anti-hypertensive effects in the body. [38]
Diltiazem (Calcium channel blocker): Guggul is reported to reduce the absorption of diltiazem, which leads to reduced anti-hypertensive effects in the body.
Estrogen-containing medicines: Guggul is studied to exhibit agonist activity against estrogen receptors i.e., it mimics estrogen hormone in the body. This might lead to side effects that are commonly seen during the overproduction of estrogen hormone.
Therefore, it is safer to avoid consuming estrogen-containing medicines including birth control pills along with guggul supplements. [39]
Medications that are metabolized in the liver: Guggul is reported to have an effect on the rate at which a few medicines are metabolized in the liver.
This might eventually lead to reduced efficacy of certain drugs. [40]
Thyroid agents: Guggul is reported to increase thyroid activity. Consuming guggul supplements along with thyroid medication may cause side effects that are observed during overproduction of thyroid hormones.
Lipid-lowering agents: Guggul is reported to have demonstrated therapeutic benefits against high blood cholesterol levels in the body. Consuming guggul along with lipid-lowering medications may have an impact on the total cholesterol levels in the body.
Anticoagulants/Anti-platelet agents: Guggul inhibits blood clotting and it should never be taken with anticoagulants.
FAQs
Guggul does not increase estrogen, but it possesses strong agonistic activity against estrogen receptor, which means, it mimics estrogen molecules and exhibits effects similar to estrogen.
Guggulsterone, the key active constituent of guggul, activates estrogen receptor alpha isoform. [41]Higher estrogen levels are said to cause various health problems like irregular menstrual cycle, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, tumor growth in breasts, etc. [42][43]Therefore, individuals with higher estrogen levels in the body should avoid using guggul supplements. Healthy individuals should also be careful with dosage and must not consume more than what is recommended.
Guggul supplements can lower the cholesterol levels along with total triglyceride levels in the body.
Multiple scientific studies have shown that guggul supplementation can effectively reduce the serum levels of LDL cholesterol, increase the HDL levels and also reverse atherosclerosis triggered due to hypercholesterolemia in both humans and animals.[44][45]
But, a few studies have shown that guggul can have an ill impact or no effect on the cholesterol levels in the body.
However, it is important to note that a healthy and active lifestyle plays a critical role in the effectiveness of guggul supplements.
Preliminary studies have reported on guggul possessing potent thyroid stimulatory properties. Z-guggulsterone of Commiphora mukul increases the uptake of iodine mineral, which has a crucial role in thyroid functions. [46][47]Animal studies have shown that guggulsterone also increases the levels of triiodothyronine (T3), a thyroid hormone and promotes healthy thyroid functions.
Very little evidence is available on guggul’s effectiveness against hypothyroidism in humans. Thus, it is better to consult a health professional before opting for guggul supplements for hypothyroidism.
Guggul has shown promising results in the treatment of nodulocystic acne. One study has shown that oral supplementation of guggul act on the inflammatory lesions and reduce the severity and visibility of acne.[48]
Free radicals like ROS and RNS are known to be one of the major causes of acne breakouts.[49] Guggul’s antioxidant properties may help in neutralizing the free radical activity and preventing acne.
There is no sufficient evidence on guggul being helpful for acne breakouts in human skin. Therefore, it is safe to discuss with a dermatologist before using guggul for acne treatment.
Bottom Note
Being one of the ancient medications, Guggul has valuable medicinal benefits.
In spite of having a limited number of human trials, it can be noted that the results obtained from both in vitro and in vivo studies are quite promising.
With negligible adverse effects, it not only makes an effective health supplement but also makes a safe one.