Evidence supporting the use of: Guggul Extract
For the health condition: Fat Metabolism (poor)

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Synopsis

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

Guggul extract (from the resin of the Commiphora mukul tree) has a long history of use in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, particularly for conditions described as "obesity", "medoroga" (disorders of fat metabolism), and high lipid levels. Classical Ayurvedic texts recommend guggul for its purported ability to "scrape" excess fat and promote healthy metabolism. In modern times, guggul is marketed as a supplement to support fat metabolism and manage cholesterol levels.

Scientific research on guggul's efficacy for fat metabolism is limited and somewhat mixed. Early animal studies and small clinical trials in the late 20th century suggested that guggulsterones, the active compounds in guggul, may influence lipid metabolism by modulating bile acid production and thyroid function. However, larger and more rigorous clinical studies have generally failed to confirm significant benefits for weight loss or fat metabolism in humans. For example, a 2003 randomized controlled trial (Szapary et al., JAMA) found no significant benefit of guggulipid for lowering cholesterol or improving fat metabolism, and some adverse effects were reported.

In summary, while guggul extract is justified by robust traditional use for supporting fat metabolism, scientific support is weak and inconsistent. Most current evidence does not strongly support its efficacy for this purpose in humans.

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Products containing Guggul Extract

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