Drug Compare

Category

Alternate Title

Synonyms

African myrrh, Arabian myrrh, Commifora mukul, Commiphora myrrha, guggal, guggulu, guggulsterone (4,17(20)- pregnadiene- 3,16- dione), gum guggul, gum guggulu, guggulsterone, gugulimax, guggulipid C+, guglip, gum myrrh, fraction A, myrrha, Somali myrrh, yemen myrhh.

Background

Guggul (gum guggul) is a resin produced by the mukul mirth tree. Guggulipid is extracted from guggul, and contains plant sterols (guggulsterones E and Z), which are believed to be its bioactive compounds.

Prior to 2003, the majority of scientific evidence suggested that guggulipid elicits significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, low- density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides, as well as elevations in high- density lipoprotein (HDL). Although recent evidence provides preliminary evidence against the efficacy of guggul for hypercholesterolemia, and thus, further study is necessary before a definitive conclusion can be reached.

Initial research reports that guggulsterones are antagonists of the farsenoid X receptor (FXR) and the bile acid receptor (BAR), nuclear hormones that are involved with cholesterol metabolism and bile acid regulation.

Evidence

Hypercholesterolemia: Prior to 2003, the majority of scientific evidence suggested that guggulipid elicits significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, low- density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides, as well as elevations in high- density lipoprotein (HDL). However, recent evidence provides preliminary evidence against the efficacy of guggul for hypercholesterolemia. Due to the precedent of prior research and historical use, further study is necessary before a definitive conclusion can be reached.
Grade: C

Acne: Guggulipid has been found to possess anti- inflammatory properties, and has been suggested as an oral therapy for nodulocystic acne vulgaris. Preliminary data suggest possible short- term improvements in the number of acne lesions. However, further evidence is warranted before a therapeutic recommendation can be made.
Grade: C

Obesity: There is insufficient evidence to support the use of guggul or guggul derivatives for the management of obesity.
Grade: C

Rheumatoid arthritis: There is insufficient evidence to support the use of guggul or guggul derivatives for the management of rheumatoid arthritis.
Grade: C

Osteoarthritis: There is insufficient evidence to support the use of guggul or guggul derivatives for the management of osteoarthritis.
Grade: C