Guggul has been seen to treat a wide range of health conditions, including obesity, arthritis, and inflammation. It has an amazing natural composition of multiple chemicals like steroids, essential oils, lignans, flavonoids, and amino acids, contributing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Guggul is a useful gum resin derived from trees of the Burseraceae family, native to India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, and prominently used in Ayurvedic medicine. It is extracted from various Commiphora and Boswellia species.
Guggul is recognized for centuries in holistic Ayurvedic treatments. Guggul's multifaceted health benefits make it the most famous traditional medicine for preventing and managing various diseases.
Common Names Of Guggul
Guggul, a renowned resin used in traditional remedies and incense, is known by various names across different regions, showing its widespread usage and its cultural significance.
- English, it's known as Indian bdellium or Gum guggul.
- Hindi, it goes by Guggul or Guggal Dhoop.
- Sanskrit, the ancient Indian language, offers a variety of names including Guggulu, Padma, Kumuda, Mahanila, Mahishaksha, and Hiranaya.
- Tamil speakers call it Gukkulu, while in Telugu, it's known as Guggipannu. Kannada refers to it as Kanthagana.
- Bengali as Guggulu.
- Gujarati as Gugal.
- Marathi, it's called Guggala.
Uses of Guggul
Guggul is known for its various therapeutic properties and potential uses in treating different health conditions like:
For Arthritis and Inflammation
- Guggul has anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities, which are beneficial for arthritis and inflammation.
- Studies on animal models have shown that guggul extract can block disease development and reduce arthritis severity and pain.
For Skin Diseases
- Gugulipid, an extract of guggul, effectively manages nodulocystic acne, a severe form of inflammatory acne.
- Human trials indicate its benefits, especially for those with oily skin, though consultation with a skin specialist is advised before use.
For Obesity
- Studies show guggul's lipid-lowering effect in obesity and atherosclerosis, with bioactive compounds responsible for its hypolipidemic activity.
For Heart-Related Diseases
- Guggulsterone is a plant steroid found in guggul that is beneficial for heart health due to its heart-protective qualities.
- Testing indicates its ability to lower cholesterol and protect the heart, but those with heart issues should seek medical advice first before starting this herb..
Guggul showcases a range of properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-hypercholesterolemic, anti-thrombotic, anti-rheumatism, anti-hyperlipidaemic, carminative, antispasmodic, astringent, heart-protective, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, and thyroid stimulatory. Always consult a healthcare provider before incorporating guggul into your health regimen for any of the above conditions.
Therapeutic Dosage of Guggul
The appropriate dose of Guggul varies based on age, health condition severity, and patient tolerance. Always consult an Ayurvedic professional for personalized advice.
- Churna or Powder: Recommended at ¼ tablespoon twice daily after meals with lukewarm water, unless advised otherwise.
- Tablet or Capsule: The recommended intake is 1-2 tablets twice daily post-meals with water.
- Lehyam or Paste Application: Equal parts of Guggul powder and water can be mixed into a paste and applied to affected areas.
Side Effects of Guggul
- Potential Side Effects: Overconsumption may lead to nausea, disrupted menstrual cycles, diarrhea, and hiccups.
- Guggul's anticoagulant properties necessitate caution around surgical procedures to avoid excessive bleeding.
- Excessive use may also harm liver health and affect birth control efficacy.
Precautions
- Pregnancy: Guggul poses risks during pregnancy by potentially inducing uterine contractions, which may lead to miscarriage or premature labor.
- Breastfeeding: Due to limited information on Guggul's safety during lactation, consultation with a lactation expert is advised before use.
- Skin application: Some people might be allergic to Guggul, try a patch test first, before applying it to the skin.
- Bleeding disorders: Guggul has been observed to slow clotting, therefore in case of bleeding disorders like piles, consult a doctor first.
Guggul is a very useful Ayurvedic medicine used in Ayurveda that helps with many health problems like joint pain, skin issues, weight, and heart problems. It's famous in different places and known by different names. But remember, it's important to use Guggul carefully, especially for pregnant ladies or if you have certain health issues. Always talk to a doctor before using it to make sure it's safe for you. This way, you can make the most of Guggul's health benefits safely. So try out Guggul and begin the journey of your natural healing with Ayurheals.