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Guggul Benefits
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Guggul benefits have long been recognized in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for their cholesterol-lowering and disinfecting properties.
Guggul is a shrub or small tree belonging to the family Burseraceae. Known by its scientific name of commiphora wightii, guggul is typically found in northern Africa, central Asia, and India. It usually reaches a height of 4 meters and has thin bark and thorny branches. It has ovate leaves that are irregularly toothed. Guggul has flowers that range in color from red to pink. The flowers have four petals.
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Guggul produces a resinous sap from its bark. This sap is known as guggul gum. The extract of this gum has been used in the annals of Ayurvedic medicine for more than three millennia. The Sanskrit term for guggul is translated as "one that protects against diseases" and has been used for various ailments and diseases throughout the years. Among others, it was used for "clearing the coating and obstruction of channels", as well as for healing bone fractures, inflammation, arthritis, cardiovascular conditions, obesity and lipid disorders.
Guggul gum has a scent that is similar to myrrh. It is thus commonly used in incense and perfumes.
The active constituent in the extract of the guggul gum is the phytosterol guggulsterone, which has reportedly shown the ability to stimulate the thyroid gland and thus reduce cholesterol levels and aid in weight loss. Guggul gum also contains organic acids, aromatic acids, diterpenes, lignans, sterols, steroids, esters and fatty acid alcohols.
Nowadays, the guggul gum is taken in the form of capsules, or as liquid extract.
The following are the guggul benefits that may be derived from consuming this herb:
Guggul may help in lowering bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Guggul may help enhance the body's immune system.
Guggul is believed to help prevent heart attacks.
Guggul is thought to help in fighting acne.
Guggul is thought to help increase white blood cell count.
While guggul is generally regarded as safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the use of guggul is not recommended for pregnant women. Individuals who have Irritable Bowel Syndrome or liver conditions should also avoid using guggul gum. Guggul should likewise not be taken by people taking St. John's wort and acetaminophen. Those taking cholesterol-lowering statins should also not take guggul. |
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