Age Ayurveda Nighantu

Guggulu Herb

Guggulu Herb is a classical Ayurvedic guggulu, a resin-based preparation. Shodhana processing removes irritant oleoresin components while retaining guggulsterones. Purified guggulu has significantly improved safety and moderate oral bioavailability of guggulsterones.

Key facts
Also known asGuggulu Herb, GugguluHerb

Names and identification

LanguageName
EnglishGuggulu_Herb

What is it made of?

Key Active Markers

  • Derived from constituent herbs (see individual herb profiles)
  • Standardized on primary bioactive markers

Analytical Methods: HPLC fingerprinting, TLC (identity), LC-MS/MS (marker quantification)

Dosage forms and preparation

Dosage Forms: Raw resin (for processing), Shuddha Guggulu|Shuddha Guggulu (purified), Powder, Capsules (modern)

Standard Dosage: Only as Shuddha (purified) form: 250-500 mg twice daily, as per API/AFI

Bioavailability: Raw resin has poor bioavailability and contains irritant fractions. Shodhana processing removes irritant oleoresin components while retaining guggulsterones. Purified guggulu has significantly improved safety and moderate oral bioavailability of guggulsterones.

Optimal Timing: After Shodhana, as directed in specific Guggulu formulations

Shelf Life: Raw resin: 5+ years if stored properly; Purified: 5 years

Storage: Store raw resin in airtight containers away from heat and sunlight. Dried resin is hard and brittle — store in cloth bags in cool, dry place. Temperature not exceeding 30°C.

Marker Compounds: Z-Guggulsterone, E-Guggulsterone, Guggulsterol I-III, Myrrhanol A, Cembrene, Mukulol

Quality Parameters: Total guggulsterones (Z + E) NLT 2.5%, volatile oil content, water-soluble extractive, alcohol-soluble extractive, total ash, foreign organic matter, moisture, HPTLC/HPLC fingerprint, heavy metals, microbial limits

Vehicle (Anupana): Must be processed (Shodhana) before use — not taken as raw herb

Synergistic Combinations

  • Triphala (for Shodhana and co-formulation)
  • Trikatu (as bioenhancer)
  • Disease-specific herbs in compound Guggulu formulations

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