Guggul is the common name for the flowering Mukul myrrh tree, which is derived from an oily sap of the Mukul myrrh tree. This tree is a shrub with thin, shiny bark and thorny branches. It is commonly found in India and other dry regions such as Northern Africa and Central Asia. Guggul is known by the Sanskrit name “Guggulu,” which means “protects from disease”. There are many varieties of Guggulu, and each has different uses, which are determined in part by the color and age of the resinous myrrh gum. Guggul was once relatively abundant in many parts of India. However, it is very difficult to harvest the resinous sap without damaging the tree, leaving it susceptible to infection and decline. You may not be aware that the trees take several years to mature to the point where they can be safely harvested, and they need time to recover between harvest periods. Without this recovery period, they are at risk of damage and even death.

The health benefits of guggul are traced back hundreds of years in India. People in the past used it as Ayurvedic medicine. Traditionally, guggul was used for joint pain, weight management, liver problems, intestinal worms, ulcers, bladder infections, and heart problems. Guggul is known for its powerful detoxifying and rejuvenating qualities. In general, Guggulu has an affinity for all of the tissues in the body as well as the circulatory, digestive, nervous, and respiratory systems. The active ingredient in Guggul extract is known as guggulsterone, which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties at the cellular level. Guggulsterone also has been shown to upregulate the bile salt export pump, which is responsible for the removal of cholesterol metabolites from the liver. Studies have shown that guggul can reduce the symptoms of hypothyroidism by increasing T3 levels and T4 levels and improving liver conversion of thyroid hormones. It also increases iodine uptake, which is needed to make thyroid hormones. Studies have indicated that the consumption of guggul extract increases iodine uptake by the body and stimulates the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which keeps the thyroid gland healthy and active. Guggul may not produce noticeable benefits for those who do not have a thyroid gland or have undergone radioactive iodine treatment. Because much of its benefit comes in boosting the function of the existing thyroid gland.

Researches suggest that taking guggul orally can help treat severe acne on the face, chest, and back, and prevent acne outbreaks. Guggul promotes skin health through collagen production. It also restrains the growth of skin-damaging enzymes.
Guggulsterone, an active ingredient of guggul, can break down fat cells (lipolysis), which promotes weight loss. Guggulu supports weight loss by removing accumulated toxins and excessive buildup of tissues. It also supports the digestion of oils and fats. It also has effects on specific fat-storing hormones such as insulin, leptin, and thyroid hormone. These 3 hormones help regulate the metabolism and also influence satiety and appetite.
Guggulsterone helps reduce inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome, which leads to improved function of arteries and the heart. Its cholesterol-lowering activity is responsible for preventing fat deposition within blood vessels; as a result, it helps prevent plaque formation and reduces the risk of heart disease. Guggulu reduces inflammation in the joints and lubricates and rejuvenates the tissues within and around the joints, which supports the movement of joints.

Here are some amazing health benefits of Guggulu:

• Balances cholesterol levels.
• Boosts thyroid function.
• Promotes weight loss.
• Reduces acne and prevents acne outbreaks.
• Reduces pain and inflammation in arthritis.
• Reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Provides anti-inflammatory and anti-parasitic properties.
• Detoxifies and rejuvenates the body.

Because of guggulu’s subtle and penetrating qualities, it is often used to carry other substances deep into the tissues. The qualities of the other herbs help direct where exactly the Guggulu travels in the body, and its combination with other herbs enhances its detoxifying and rejuvenating qualities.

Guggul is taken orally through supplements. There is no well-established and precise dosing guideline currently. However, the following dosages have been claimed effective in some studies. The dosage ranges from 50mg up to 500mg (or more) in some cases.

• For Thyroid Function: 500 to 1,000 mg per day
• For Weight Loss: 500 to 1,000 mg per day
• For Inflammation: 500 mg per day

Guggul also poses risks when it is combined with certain medications. It is best to be cautious or avoid taking guggul with other medications. Excessive use can lead to dryness of the mouth, impotency, vertigo, and affect the liver or lungs. Guggul should be avoided for pregnancy, during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in cases of excessive uterine bleeding or acute kidney infection.

Here are a few ways to use guggul externally: in a healing balm to promote healthy skin and improve the movement of joints. You can also use Guggul for gargling to support healthy oral mucus membranes, teeth, and gums.

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