Commiphora Mukul is a flowering plant in the family Burseraceae. Guggul plant is widespread in North Africa to Central Asia, but is most common in northern India. It prefers arid and semi-arid climates. It is a shrub or small tree, reaching a maximum height of 4 m, has thin bark. The branches are thorny. The leaves are simple or trifoliate, leaflets ovate, 1-5 cm long, 0.5-2.5 cm wide and are irregularly toothed. Some plants have bisexual and male flowers and others with female flowers. Individual flowers are red-pink, with four small petals. Fruits are small round in shape and become red on maturity.
Chemical composition – Contains ketone fraction which is extracted from the resin composed of the most powerful cholesterol-lowering components. It is composed of C21 to C27 steroids with the major components being Z and E guggulsterones. Guggul also contain resins, volatile oils.
Properties – Anti-atherogenic, anti-hypercholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, (strong), antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, laxative, aphrodisiac, astringent, bitter, carminative, sedative, diaphoretic, disinfectant, diuretic, emmenagogue, enhances phagocytosis, immunostimulant (increased white blood cell), appetizer, thyroid stimulant, uterine stimulant.
Recommendation – Atherosclerosis, osteoarthritis, gout, liver diseases, circulatory disorders, heart problems, obesity, menstrual problems, hemorrhoids, constipation, indigestion, thyroid problems, belching, hyperacidity.
This plant is incorporated in natural remedies SLEMOL, LYON HEART.