Did you know that soldiers in ancient times used numerous herbs, including Guggul topically, to heal wounds, reduce inflammation, & improve blood flow in battle injuries?
Guggul is a powerful herbal remedy that has been the subject of numerous scientific studies, & is widely available in various forms. Read on to discover incredible guggul benefits and how they can help you improve your overall well-being.
What Is Guggul?
"Guggulu" is the Sanskrit name for the resin & "Guggul" is the Hindi name. Guggulu is the common name for the gum resin extracted from the plant Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhand. (Syn. Commiphora mukul Hook. ex. Stocks) or Guggul Tree. It is also known as Indian bdellium, Mukul myrrh tree, & guggulipid, used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years to treat various health issues.
Scientifically, it belongs to the Burseraceae family, which is a family of resinous trees & shrubs. The plant is native to India, Pakistan, & Bangladesh & is widely cultivated in India, mainly in Rajasthan, Gujarat, & Madhya Pradesh.
The guggul plant is a small, thorny tree or shrub with thin, papery bark & shiny, green leaves. It produces small, white, or pink flowers, which develop into small, berry-like fruits.
Guggul: An Ayurvedic Perspective
Guggul has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine, dating back to around 600 BC. It is mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts (Atharvaveda – Vedic Literature), such as the Charaka Samhita & the Sushruta Samhita, as a powerful medicinal herb with a wide range of therapeutic uses. In Ayurveda, Guggul is considered a rasayana, which means it has rejuvenating & anti-aging properties.
Guggul has played in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries & emphasizes its value as a natural remedy for various health conditions.
Types Of Guggul In Ayurveda
There are several types of guggul in Ayurveda. Some of the most commonly used types:
1. Guggulu Suddha: A pure form of guggul resin commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine.
2. Guggulu Ghrita: A medicated ghee preparation type that contains guggul as one of its ingredients. It is used to treat various diseases, including joint pain & inflammation.
3. Yogaraja Guggulu: A classical Ayurvedic formula that contains guggul & other herbs used for treating joint disorders, rheumatism, & nervous disorders.
4. Mahayograj Guggulu: Another classical Ayurvedic formula that contains guggul & other herbs for treating joint pain, inflammation, & gout.
5. Kaishore Guggulu: A combination of guggul & other herbs used to treat skin diseases, joint pain, & inflammation.
6. Triphala Guggulu: A combination of guggul & triphala (a mixture of three fruits). Triphala guggul benefits treat digestive disorders, obesity, & high cholesterol.
7. Lakshadi Guggulu: This combines guggul & laksha (shellac). It is used for the treatment of bone fractures & joint disorders.
Ancient Verse on Guggul in Ayurvedic Texts
Several ancient verses in Ayurvedic texts mention Guggul & its medicinal properties. One such verse from the Sushruta Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic text:
"Yashtyahva, sarshapa, kshaudra, ushira, parushaka, madhuka, nagara, bala, patala, ashwagandha, tila, & Guggul are the twelve most important drugs which can help to promote health & longevity, increase the digestive fire, & balance the three doshas."
This verse highlights the importance of Guggul uses in Ayurvedic medicine, along with other herbs & spices used to promote health & balance in the body. In addition, it indicates that Guggul can help to increase digestive fire, which is essential for proper digestion & absorption of nutrients.
Additionally, it indicates that Guggul can help balance the three doshas, Vata, Pitta, & Kapha, & are believed to be responsible for maintaining health & well-being in Ayurveda.
Guggul Chemical Constituents & Its Beneficial Properties
|
Chemical Constituents |
Properties |
|
Steroids (E-Guggulsterone, Z-Guggulsterone, Guggulsterol I, II, III, IV, V) |
Hypolipidemic activity |
|
Amino Acids |
Building blocks of protein |
|
Carbohydrates |
Energy source |
|
Aliphatic Esters |
Used in perfumes & flavors |
|
Diterpenoids |
Anti-inflammatory & antioxidant properties |
|
Cholesterol |
Component of cell membranes |
|
Sesamin |
Antioxidant & anti-inflammatory properties |
|
Guggul tetrols, Octadecane-1,2,3,4-tetrol, non adecan-1,2,3,4tetraols, terpenes, lignans (GuggullignanI, Guggullignan II, ferulic acid, sesamin) |
Anti-inflammatory & antioxidant properties |
|
Essential oils (myrcene, Alphapinene, Methyl chavicol, 1,8-cineole) |
Anti-inflammatory & antimicrobial properties |
Guggul fractions have varying guggulsterone percentages:
|
Guggulsterones |
Percentage |
|
Crude gum guggul |
2% |
|
Ethyl acetate extract |
4 to 4.5% |
|
Neutral subfraction |
4.2 to 4.7% |
|
Ketonic subfraction |
35 to 40% |
|
E-Z Guggulsterones |
10% (derived from Ketonic subfraction) |
Guggul Benefits: A Versatile Herb With Many Therapeutic Effects
The therapeutic benefits of guggul are as follows:
1. Anti-inflammatory & Anti-arthritic effects:
Guggul contains active ingredients like cembranoids, myrrhanol, & alpha-pinene, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These components inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines & enzymes, which can cause inflammation & damage to tissues.
Studies have demonstrated that guggul for joint pain & reduce inflammation. Guggul inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines & enzymes such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), & inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). In addition, Guggul also inhibits the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), a key transcription factor involved in the inflammatory process. This property of Guggul makes it an effective treatment for inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, & other joint diseases.
2. Anti-obesity effects:
Guggul for weight loss has been shown to possess anti-obesity effects that help to reduce body weight, body mass index (BMI), & waist circumference in obese individuals, making it valuable in the treatment of obesity & related conditions like metabolic syndrome.
Guggul for thyroid problems has been shown to activate the thyroid gland, which leads to an increase in metabolic rate & subsequent weight loss. It also reduces fat absorption & increases fat breakdown, leading to a reduction in fat accumulation. Furthermore, Guggul improves insulin sensitivity, which is associated with a reduction in adipose tissue mass.
How to use Guggul for weight loss? Simply take NAMHYA Guggul Powder ¼ tbsp in lukewarm water twice daily or as the medical practitioner directs.
3. Anti-diabetic effects:
Guggul has been found to have hypoglycemic effects in animal studies. In addition, Guggul increases insulin sensitivity & glucose uptake in muscle & adipose tissue, improves glucose tolerance, & reduces postprandial glucose levels.
Research has also shown that Guggul can improve glucose metabolism, increase insulin sensitivity, & reduce glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), a long-term blood sugar control marker.
4. Anti-cancer effects:
Several studies have suggested that Guggul has anti-cancer properties. The active components in Guggul, such as naringenin, quercetin, & ellagic acid, have been shown to have anti-cancer effects in various types of cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, & colon cancer. These components inhibit the growth & proliferation of cancer cells & induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.
Guggul also inhibits angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels necessary for tumor growth.
5. Lipid-lowering effects:
Guggul for cholesterol has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat hyperlipidemia (high levels of lipids in the blood). Research has shown that Guggul can reduce the level of total cholesterol, triglycerides, & LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol while increasing HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. These effects are attributed to the presence of guggulsterone, which is an active component of Guggul.
Guggul also prevents the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which is a primary (key) step in the development of atherosclerosis. Guggul also reduces the risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) & stroke.
6. Antimicrobial effects:
Guggul has been found to benefit from urinary tract infections (UTIs). It contains various bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, terpenoids, & steroids that possess potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, & antimicrobial properties. One study found that Guggul extract had significant antibacterial activity against several common pathogens that cause UTIs, including E. coli, Proteus mirabilis, & Klebsiella pneumonia.
Guggul's antibacterial properties help to eliminate these bacteria, reducing the risk of UTIs. Additionally, the diuretic properties of Guggul can increase urine production & promote the flushing out of harmful bacteria from the urinary tract.
In Ayurveda, painful urination is believed to be caused by an imbalance of one or more of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha). Guggul can help balance these doshas & improve urine production, alleviating uncomfortable urination.
7. Beneficial Effects on the Kidney
Guggul has been shown to reduce the risk of kidney stone formation due to its ability to inhibit crystal aggregation in the kidneys.
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Guggul had significant diuretic activity in rats, which suggests that it may have similar effects in humans. The study authors also noted that Guggul extracts had anti-inflammatory effects on the kidneys, which could benefit people with kidney problems.
8. Beneficial effects on the liver:
Guggul has hepatoprotective effects that help to protect the liver from damage. It has been shown to reduce liver damage caused by alcohol consumption & other toxins. Guggul also increases the production of bile, which is essential for the digestion & elimination of waste products.
9. Beneficial effects on the Nervous system:
Guggul is considered to have a sedative effect on the nervous system, helping to calm & relax the mind. This is due to the presence of certain chemical constituents in Guggul, such as alpha-pinene & eugenol, which have been shown to have a sedative effect. It also improves cognitive function, memory & also reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease & Parkinson's disease.
How To Incorporate Guggul Into Daily Routine
Are guggul benefits for skin as well as other theoretical benefits? Guggulu is available in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, powders, & extracts that can incorporate into your routine:
Internally Use of Guggulu Benefits
1. Capsules & tablets: A convenient way to take in the form of a supplement. However, follow the instructions on the label for dosage must be important.
2. Powder: Guggul powder can be mixed with warm water or milk & consumed. It can also be consumed as a powder, added to soups or stews.
3. Extracts: Guggul extract can be added to teas or consumed directly by mixing with water.
Depending on health & demands, guggul dose may vary before consuming guggul internally, especially if you're on medication or have a medical problem.
Externally Use of Guggulu Benefits
1. As a paste: To improve skin health, joint mobility, & tissue detoxification, guggul can be made into a paste & administered externally.
2. As a lotion or cream: Guggul lotion can be applied topically on the affected area of various skin ailments like eczema, acne, & skin infections for best results because of its anti-inflammatory & antibacterial properties. However, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using guggul lotion as a part of your skincare routine.
Key Points To Be Consider While Consuming Guggul
Guggul Dosage
1. Depending on the condition being treated & the form of Guggul (powder, capsule, tablet, resin, etc.), the dosage of Guggul may vary.
2. Guggul extract (with at least 2.5% guggulsterones) taken twice or thrice a day is regarded as a safe & effective dose for most conditions.
3. A medical professional should be consulted to figure out the correct dose.
Guggul Side Effects & Precaution To Be Taken
Guggul is generally safe when taken in recommended dosages. However, some individuals may experience adverse effects such as digestive problems, diarrhea, skin irritation, & allergic reactions.
1. Rarely guggul uses can induce liver toxicity, hypoglycemia, & hypothyroidism.
2. Guggul may have uterine stimulant effects. Therefore, pregnant & lactating women should avoid using it.
3. Guggul should be used with caution & a doctor's approval by those with a history of liver or kidney illness, thyroid issues, or hormone-sensitive problems.
4. Guggul may also affect cholesterol levels; therefore, individuals taking cholesterol-lowering medications should closely monitor their cholesterol levels & consult a healthcare provider before using Guggul.
5. Guggul is not recommended for children as its safety & efficacy have not been established in this population.
Experience the Healing Power of NAMHYA Guggul Powder
Experience the therapeutic benefits of NAMHYA Guggul Powder, sourced from the purest guggul resin. This natural herb is known for its diuretic & antibacterial & other beneficial qualities that promote improved kidney and urinary tract infections (UTI) & other health benefits such as joints, metabolism, & skin health.
Simply take 2-3 grams of powder in water 1-2 times a day to witness the magic of its natural healing power. So buy NAMHYA Guggul Powder now & give your body the gift of natural healing.
