Guggulsterones are an herbal supplement made from the sap of the Commiphora mukul tree, also known as the Guggul tree. The Guggul tree is primarily located in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. The sap is collected from the tree and converted to an liquid or powder extract. It is promoted as improving the function of the thyroid glands and reducing unhealthy cholesterol levels. The supplement is primarily recommended as a weight loss treatment for people with underperforming thyroids.
Guggulsterones typically come in a capsule filled with powder. Low potency varieties of the herb produce a yellow powder, while the higher potency variety has a brown powder. The lower potency variety may be used for minor purposes, while bodybuilders and athletes are more likely to use the more potent variety to lose fat quickly for maximum muscle definition. The supplement is often taken for less than four months and is not typically recommended for long-term usage.
Supporters of guggulsterones believe the supplement aids in fat loss by stimulating the thyroids, the glands that aid in the metabolizing of fat. If thyroids don’t function correctly, people may be more susceptible to fat storage. People that have fast metabolism may not benefit from the supplement and can potentially lose muscle mass rather than fat.
In addition to being touted as a weight loss aid, these supplements are also promoted as improving cholesterol. The sap extract is thought to lower the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the unhealthy cholesterol that can build up in the arteries and lead to heart attacks or strokes. The supplement may also reduce levels of triglycerides, a type of fat that can accumulate in the blood and cause cardiovascular diseases.
Advocates of the supplement also believe it helps sustain healthy cholesterol levels in addition to reducing the unhealthy variety. It is thought to trigger the Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), a hormone receptor responsible for converting cholesterol into bile. By aiding in the secretion of cholesterol, the FXR may help prevent excess cholesterol levels from reaching the bloodstream.
Guggulsterones are also thought to be an anti-inflammatory agent. The supplement is often promoted as an herbal remedy for arthritis and tendinitis. It is also believed to have an antibacterial property that may help reduce acne.
There are potential side effects that have been found to occur with the supplement. Guggulsterones are not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some people may experience an allergic rash or stomach pain. The supplement may also interact with cholesterol medications and render them ineffective.