Product Data

GUGGUL EXTRACT 2.5%

Guggul Extract is produced from Commiphora mukul, a small, thorny plant distributed throughout India.

The classical treatise on Ayurvedic medicine, Sushrita Samhita, describes the use of Guggul for a wide variety of conditions, including arthritis and obesity. One of its primary indications was a condition known as medoroga. This ancient diagnosis is similar to the modern description of atherosclerosis. Guggul was primarily used to prevent this condition by lowering serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Guggul contains resin, volatile oils, and gum. The extract isolates ketonic steroid compounds known as guggulsterones. These compounds have been shown to provide the lipid-lowering actions noted for Guggul. Guggul significantly lowers serum triglycerides and cholesterol as well as LDL and VLDL cholesterols (the "bad" cholesterols). At the same time, it raises levels of HDL cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol). As antioxidants, guggulsterones keep LDL cholesterol from oxidizing which protects against atherosclerosis. Guggul has been shown to reduce the stickiness of platelets; another effect that lowers the risk of coronary artery disease. One study found Guggul Extract similar to the drug clofibrate for lowering cholesterol levels. Clinical studies in India have consistently confirmed that Guggul Extract improves lipid levels in humans.