Guggul is the classical treatise on Ayurvedic medicine, Sushrita Samhita, describes the use of guggul for a wide variety of conditions, including rheumatism and obesity. One of its primary indications was a condition known as medoroga. This ancient diagnosis is similar to the modern description of atherosclerosis. Standardized guggul extracts are approved in India for lowering elevated serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The mukul myrrh (Commiphora mukul) tree is a small, thorny plant distributed throughout India. Guggul and gum guggulu are the names given to a yellowish resin produced by the stem of the plant. This resin has been used historically and is also the source of modern extracts of guggul.

Guggul is one of the most valued botanicals for supporting cholesterol wellness. Throughout history, traditional cultures have used herbs to support a healthy cardiovascular system. One of the most valued Ayurvedic herb is guggul, the resin of a shrub related to myrrh. New scientific research supports this traditional use and offers evidence to explain guggul's mechanism of action.

Guggul, rich in guggulsterones, the constituent believed by scientists to be responsible for many of the plant's benefits, is a gum resin from the mukul tree (Commiphora mukul), a small, thorny bush similar to myrrh, which grows naturally troughout India. Guggul has been used in Ayurvedic herbalism since at least 600 B.C. Guggul resin contains a number of constituents including the plant sterols, guggelsterones, which appear to work together to exert the beneficial effects of this botanical.

Numerous clinical studies in India support the use of guggul for maintaining cholesterol levels in the normal range. Recent research at the Baylor School of Medicine in Houston, reported in the journal Science, found that guggul may block a receptor in liver cells involved in cholesterol metabolism: the farnesoid X receptor (FXR). FXR is known to play a key role in cholesterol metabolism, by mediating the rate of bile acid production by the liver. Cholesterol is eliminated from the body through bile release. Guggul has also been found to support normal thyroid function by stimulating the release of thyroid hormone, according to recent studies.

Lifestyle suggestions:

1. Individuals of dominant Kapha Doshas are susceptible to imbalances of their cholesterol levels. This is partially due to their slower metabolism. Kaphas should start a regimented exercise program and minimize oily, heavy foods.

2. Joint conditions are an expected imbalance due to a Vata dominant person being more mobile and active than other Dosha types. Vata dominant individuals should seek less joint stressing activities. Swimming may be an alternative to running. Walking may be preferred over high impact aerobics. Adding regular body massage would be very helpful to Vata types.