Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Guggullipid (commonly derived from the resin of Commiphora mukul, known as guggul) has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of lipid disorders. In the modern era, several clinical studies have investigated its efficacy in lowering triglycerides and other blood lipids. Early studies, particularly those conducted in India, suggested that guggullipid could reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels. The active components, known as guggulsterones, were thought to modulate lipid metabolism via antagonism of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR), leading to increased bile acid synthesis and cholesterol excretion.

However, subsequent research, including randomized controlled trials conducted in Western populations, has produced mixed or disappointing results. For example, a well-known 2003 study published in JAMA found no significant benefit of guggullipid on triglyceride or cholesterol levels compared to placebo, and even noted an increased incidence of adverse events such as rash. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that while guggullipid may have modest triglyceride-lowering effects in some individuals, the overall evidence is inconsistent and not robust. Furthermore, safety concerns and variability in commercial preparations limit its clinical utility.

In summary, while there is a scientific basis and some evidence for guggullipid’s use in supporting healthy triglyceride levels, the quality and consistency of evidence are low, leading to a moderate-to-weak scientific justification for its use in this context.

More about Guggullipid resin
More about Triglycerides (high)

Other ingredients used for Triglycerides (high)

Other health conditions supported by Guggullipid resin

Products containing Guggullipid resin