Guggul or gum guggul is a resin obtained from the Commiphora mukul tree. Guggul has drawn a lot of attention from the scientific community due to its extraordinary benefits for the heart and blood cholesterol control. Guggul has been shown to lower cholesterol by upto 27% and also raise HDL. Natural plant sterols present in Guggul known as guggulsterones are key in Guggul's abilities to lower blood cholesterol, triglycerides and burn fat. When LDL cholesterol gets oxidized, it accumulates in arteries as plaque and causes atherosclerosis. Guggulsterones prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol and block the formation of hydroxyl radicals that attack cell membranes. Guggulsterones also reduce production of cholesterol in the liver, stimulate production of thyroid hormones and increase the receptors in the liver for the uptake of LDL.

In addition, Guggulsterones have also been shown to keep the heart muscle healthy. In cases of myocardial ischemia, the heart muscle lacks oxygen and gets damaged by free radicals. An enzyme SOD that neutralizes free radicals gets lowered in damaged heart tissues. Guggulsterones however counteract this decrease in the enzyme.

Guggul has also been shown to reduce stickiness of blood platelets which helps decrease the risk of coronary artery disease. Guggul may also help to dissolve fibrin in blood clots which would help reduce strokes and embolisms.

Guggul Drug Interactions:

Since guggul stimulates production of thyroid hormone, it may alter the dosage requirements for thyroid replacement medication. It can also reduce the availability and effectiveness of the heart medications propranolol (Inderal) and diltiazem (Cardizem). Patients should consult a health care practitioner before taking guggul along with any other herbs or medications.

References:

The Handbook of Diseases

The Medical Advisor - The complete guide to Alternative & Conventional Treatments

Pubmed.org

Himalaya Herbals Company



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