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Protocols: Gugulipid (Commiphora mukul)

Description: Extract of a resin (gum guggul) from the mukul shrub found in parts of India. Used in Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years.

Method of Action: Active ingredients, Z-guggulsterone and E-guggulsterone can lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels by increasing the liver's metabolism of lipids through receptor-mediated endocytosis, located on the surface of the cell membrane. Effects appear to be greater than that of S-allyl cysteine sulfoxide isolated from garlic and comparable to modern statin drugs with reduction in total cholesterol by 11.7%, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) by 12.5%, triglycerides by 12%and the total cholesterol/high density lipoprotein (HDL) ration by 11.1%. HDL cholesterol levels show no changes. Lipid peroxides, indicative of oxidative stress, declined 33.3% in one study.

Indications and Usage: Hyperlipademia; elevated triglyceride levels; nodulocystic acne; rheumatoid arthritis.

Contraindications: None known.

Dosage and Administration: For hyperlipademia and arthritis: 500 mg tds. For acne: 25 mg guggulsterone taken twice daily.

Clinical Effect In: Gradual effect noticeable in 3 to 4 weeks, reaching full effect in approximately 36 weeks.

Adverse Reactions: Headache, mild nausea, eructation and hiccup - all infrequent. If you suspect that an herb or other supplement is making you sick, call the FDA's MedWatch hotline at 800-332-1088 or contact the agency via it's website at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Known Interactive Effects: Gugulipid may interact with propanolol or diltiazem resulting in diminished efficacy of nonresponsiveness due to significant reduction in bioavailability.

Additional Considerations: Many products which claim to contain E- and Z-guggulsterones in fact do not or contain levels other than that described on the label. Caution is urged in determining product quality and purity.

Warnings: The information above is provided for educational purposes and may not be construed as a medical prescription or as a substitute for the advice of your physician. Do not use this product without first consulting your physician especially if you are pregnant or lactating. Be advised that some herbs and dietary supplements can cause severe allergic reactions in some individuals and may also have an adverse result in conjunction with other medications, or treatments. You should regularly consult your physician in matters regarding your health and particularly in respect to symptoms and conditions which may require diagnosis or medical attention. Reevaluate use of this product after 6 months.

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