GUGGUL “Protects Against Disease”

Guggul is made from gum resin of Commiphora mukul tree native to Rajasthan & Gujarat. Infact the word Guggul is the sanskrit word which means one that protects against diseases. It is used in Ayurvedic medicines from centuries and is described in all the classical Ayurvedic texts including Sushruta Samhita where it is especially recommended for the treatment of rheumatic pains and obesity. It is one of the most important herbal tonics of Ayurveda and is described in Charak Samhita in Samgyasathapan mahakshaya for restoration of consciousness. It is indicated for fumigation and also used as ointment. In Vedas, it is also indicated to be used in hawan yagya for making peaceful environment and to drive away evil spirits.

When used for medicinal purposes, the resin is harvested from the stems in winters. To obtain resin, circular incisions should be made on main stem. Through these incisions, aromatic fluid exudes that quickly solidifies to form golden brown or reddish brown agglomerate. This is being termed as Guggul. It is purified by placing the gum into bag of thick coarse cloth and then boiling it in decoction of Triphala until it is soft. Then it is spread out on wooden board where it is smeared with cow ghee and allowed to air dry. The dried gum is fried again in cow ghee and finally powdered for medicinal use.

Pure Guggul

Soft, sticky with sweet smell, bitter taste and  soluble in water.

Types of Guggul

In Ayurvedic texts five types  of guggul are mentioned.

•             Mahishaksha - Black in colour, for human use.

•             Mahaneela- Blue in colour.

•             Kumud- White in colour.

•             Padma- Brown, for animal use.

•             Kana- Greenish yellow.

Mahishaksha guggul is the best and used in ayurvedic preparations.

Chemistry

Guggul contains gum resin and volatile oils. The extract isolates ketonic steroid compounds known as guggulsterones. These compounds have been shown to provide the cholesterol and triglyceride lowering actions. Guggul has also been shown to reduce the stickiness of platelets thus lowering the risk of coronary artery disease. It serves as an astringent and antiseptic on mucus membranes. It stimulates body metabolism.

Dosage

500 mg twice daily

Guggul has very subtle and penetrating qualities which mean it is often employed specifically to carry other substances deep into the tissues.

Precautions

It should be avoided during pregnancy, while breast feeding, in case of excessive uterine bleeding and hyperthyroidism. It is always best to be checked by ayurvedic doctor before starting the herbal medicine.

Benefits of guggul

•             Neuroprotective.

•             Purifies the blood.

•             Boosts immune system.

•             Helps maintain normal weight.

•             Natural source of antioxidants.

•             Supports regular menstruation.

•             Improves digestion and appetite.

•             Supports normal cholesterol and lipid level.

•             Supports normal function of joints and connective tissue.

Systematic use of guggul

1.            Respiratory Acts as an expectorant. Fumes of burning guggul can be inhaled for hayfever, nasal congestion and bronchitis.

2.            Cardiovascular Antiatherogenic and cardiac tonic.

3.            Digestive Useful in dyspepsia, hemorrhoids.

4.            Urinary Helps in removing urinary stone and useful in burning micturition.

5.            Reproductive Useful in impotency & menstrual disorders. It acts as an emmenagogue.

6.            Matabolic Old guggul is indicated in obesity and diabetes. New guggul is beneficial in debility and emaciation.

7.            Neurological Prescribed in sciatica, facial paralysis, hemiplegia, rheumatoid arthritis.