Abstract

A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW ON RATIONALE SELECTION OF GUGGULU KALPANA IN VARIOUS DISEASES

Dr. Ranesh A. K.*, Dr. Yadukrishnan S., Dr. Mira Krishnan M. and Dr. Tosmy Tomy Koovackal

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Abstract

Guggulu, a naturally occurring oleogum resin, is derived from the bark of Commiphora mukul Hook. ex Stocks (Burseraceae family) through spontaneous exudation following injury. This plant material boasts an extensive ethnomedical history and serves as a rich phytochemical resource, offering numerous heuristic medical applications. Commiphora mukul, commonly known as Guggulu, is a shrub or small tree belonging to the Burseraceae family. Its chemical constituents include volatile oils, gum resin, gugulipids, guggulsterones, guggulsterols, mukolol, and various steroids.[1,2] In Ayurvedic medicine, Guggulu is extensively utilized for its multifaceted properties, including astringent, antiseptic, expectorant, aphrodisiac, carminative, anti-spasmodic, and emmenagogic effects. In Ayurveda, Guggulu is the best among herbs that are used for Medoroga and Vata disorders. Observations indicate that purified Guggulu is utilized in diverse formulations for various disease conditions, with or without specific Anupana (vehicle/adjuvant). Ayurvedic formulations incorporating Guggulu demonstrate enhanced pharmacokinetics and polyvalent effects through multiple mechanisms of action. Therefore, it is essential to elucidate the rationale behind the selection of various Guggulu formulations (Prayogas) for different disease conditions, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their therapeutic applications. The fragmented references to Guggulu in Ayurvedic texts require consolidation. By compiling and analyzing these references, we can uncover the logical framework underlying Guggulu administration, enhancing our understanding of its clinical applications.

Keywords: Guggulu, Guggulu Kalpana, Guna, Roga karma.