Guggul (Commiphora mukul): Weight Loss & Cholesterol Herb – Benefits & Risks

What Is Guggul?

Resinous sap from Commiphora mukul (Burseraceae), used in Ayurveda for centuries. Also spelled gugal, gugul, gugulipid (standardized extract).

Cholesterol: Guggulsterones (Z/E) reduce LDL & triglycerides in some trials.
Weight loss: Mixed results; not reliably proven.
Thyroid: May stimulate T3/T4 conversion.

Liver disease: Avoid—case reports of hepatotoxicity.
Phototoxicity: Increased sun sensitivity reported.
Drug interactions: May reduce efficacy of birth control, thyroid meds, statins (CYP450 induction).
Pregnancy/nursing: Insufficient data—avoid.

Research thoroughly (search Commiphora mukul on PubMed). Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner or integrative MD before use. Not a casual supplement.

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