Guggul
Guggul is the resin of the Commiphora mukul tree and has a long history of use in Ayurveda. It contains plant steroids called guggulsterones.
Also listed as Commiphora mukul, Commiphora Wightii, Guggulsterones, pregna-4
Why the cholesterol evidence conflicts
A 1994 trial in 61 people with high cholesterol reported lower LDL and triglycerides after 24 weeks of guggulipid alongside dietary therapy. A later US trial in 103 adults found LDL rose by 4–5% with guggulipid over eight weeks, while placebo LDL fell by 5%. 1 2
Positive earlier findings conflict with an LDL increase in the US trial. 1 2
What about antioxidant effects?
The earlier trial also found lower lipid peroxides, markers of oxidative stress. A change in this laboratory marker does not establish fewer cardiovascular events. 1
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Longevity1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Weight Management1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Bone & Joint1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Organ Function1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Cardiovascular1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Other effects1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Sources
- Hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of Commiphora mukul as an adjunct to dietary therapy in patients with hypercholesterolemia Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy, 1994