Herb library

Guggulu (Indian Bdellium Resin)

Guggul (Indian Bdellium Resin)

Commiphora mukul

Resin used for stiff joints and sluggish metabolism.

Guggul tree · Resin · Parts: Gum resin from bark

Taste (rasa)
Bitter, pungent, astringent
Energy (virya)
Heating
Balances
Kapha, Vata

What it is used for

Benefits

  • Long use in classical formulas for arthritic stiffness
  • Studied for effects on cholesterol and lipid metabolism
  • Used to clear ama, the residue linked to joint pain

How it has been used

Traditional uses & benefits

Guggulu resin is the classical scraper (lekhana) — used in formulas that clear stagnation from joints and channels.

Traditional uses

  • Stiff, aching joints and old injuries
  • Support in heavy, sluggish, Kapha-type metabolism
  • Base resin for classical formulas like Yogaraja Guggulu

Practical guidance

  1. 1Almost always taken as a prepared classical formula, not raw resin.
  2. 2Take with warm water after food; it can irritate an empty stomach.
  3. 3Avoid in pregnancy and check with a clinician if you take thyroid or blood-thinning medicine.

How much

Dosage

Typically 500 mg of purified guggulu two to three times daily, after food.

How to take it

Preparation & usage

Yogaraja guggulu tablet

Standard classical tablet taken with warm water.

After meals, in courses of 4-8 weeks

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Precautions

  • Avoid in pregnancy and with thyroid medication
  • Can cause skin rash or stomach upset
  • Interacts with statins and blood thinners

Where this comes from

Sources

Common questions

What is Guggul used for?

Resin used for stiff joints and sluggish metabolism. In traditional use the main applications are: Long use in classical formulas for arthritic stiffness; Studied for effects on cholesterol and lipid metabolism; Used to clear ama, the residue linked to joint pain.

What is the typical dosage of Guggul?

Typically 500 mg of purified guggulu two to three times daily, after food. Amounts vary with age, constitution and health status, so confirm your own dose with a qualified practitioner.

How and when should Guggul be taken?

Yogaraja guggulu tablet: Standard classical tablet taken with warm water. Timing — After meals, in courses of 4-8 weeks

Are there any precautions with Guggul?

Avoid in pregnancy and with thyroid medication Can cause skin rash or stomach upset Interacts with statins and blood thinners Speak to a doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take prescription medication.

Does Guggul replace medical treatment?

No. This page documents traditional Ayurvedic use for education; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace prescribed medication or professional advice.

Where to buy

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If you buy, look for a batch-tested product that states the botanical name and tests for heavy metals. Check with your doctor first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.