Guggul Naturally Relieves Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis is a chronic condition that frequently affects the joints as we age and results in cartilage and joint degradation. In Ayurveda arthritis is considered a condition caused by the build-up of toxins, and purifying herbs are recommended to remove these toxins from bone tissue, relieve pain, and increase strength and flexibility.25,54
Herbal formulas containing guggul resin extracts from the Commiphora mukul tree have traditionally been used in Ayurveda for centuries as an anti-inflammatory to treat arthritis and bone injuries that lead to arthritis. Modern scientific research has demonstrated that guggul extracts inhibit inflammatory proteins, and clinical studies suggest that high doses (6-g/day) of guggul by itself are just as effective as the traditional mixed-herb Ayurvedic formulas.25,54 Studies have also shown that the plant steroids in guggul (guggulsterones) are as potent as hydrocortisone and the powerful anti-inflammatory arthritis drug phenylbutazone used in animals.55
How Does it Work?
Elevated levels of certain enzymes can contribute significantly to cartilage degradation, and in fact some pharmaceutical drugs used to treat arthritis inhibit the activity of these two enzymes.56 The Ayurvedic guggul based formula, triphala guggulu, was assessed in a laboratory setting and found to significantly inhibit these potentially cartilage-degrading and inflammatory enzymes.56
