Key takeaways
- Guggulu is a gum resin from the Commiphora wightii tree, purified before use.
- It is the base of a family of classical tablets, each named after its main herbs.
- Examples include Triphala, Trayodashang, Yograj, Punarnavadi, Gokshuradi and Laxadi guggulu.
- Guggulu tablets are usually taken with warm water after meals, as directed.
- Ask a doctor first if you are pregnant, have thyroid or liver problems or take other medicines.
Guggulu is one of the most important ingredients in classical Ayurveda. A whole family of tablets is built around it, and you will find several in our guggulu tablets range. This guide explains what guggulu is, how it is prepared, how the main formulas differ and how they are usually taken.
What is guggulu?
Guggulu is the gum resin of Commiphora wightii (also called Commiphora mukul), a small, thorny tree that grows in dry regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat and neighbouring areas. When the bark is cut, it releases a fragrant, yellowish resin that hardens as it dries. The tree is now protected because of over-harvesting, which is one reason good-quality guggulu has become more expensive.
In the Ayurvedic texts, guggulu is described as having a warming, penetrating quality, and it is valued both for its own properties and as a binder that holds other herbs together in a tablet.
How guggulu is purified
Raw resin is never used directly. Classical texts describe a purification process called shodhana, in which the resin is boiled in a liquid such as triphala decoction, cow's milk or water, strained and dried. The purified guggulu is then pounded with herbal powders, sometimes with a little ghee, and made into tablets.
The main classical guggulu formulas
| Formula | Key companion herbs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Triphala guggulu | Triphala, pippali | A classical formula built on triphala |
| Trayodashang guggulu | Thirteen herbs, including ashwagandha and shatavari | Its name means "thirteen ingredients" |
| Yograj guggulu | Many herbs and spices | One of the best-known formulas for vata |
| Swarna Mahayograj guggulu | Yograj formula with processed gold and minerals | Herbo-mineral; medical supervision |
| Punarnavadi guggulu | Punarnava and other herbs | A classical formula related to fluid balance |
| Gokshuradi guggulu | Gokshura, triphala, trikatu | Used in urinary-care formulas |
| Laxadi guggulu | Laksha (lac) and other herbs | Traditionally used for bones and joints |
| Kaishore guggulu | Giloy and triphala | Traditionally used for skin and joints |
You can read how these fit into wider care in our guides to joint care and urinary care.
How guggulu tablets are taken
- Dose: commonly one to two tablets two or three times a day, but always follow the label.
- Timing: usually after meals.
- Anupana: usually warm water; some formulas are taken with a specific decoction, as advised by a practitioner.
- Course: many practitioners advise a set course followed by a review.
Diet while taking guggulu
Classical texts advise avoiding very sour food, excess alcohol, heavy exercise in the sun and anger while taking guggulu. Many practitioners still give this advice. Ask yours what applies.
Who should take care
Ask a doctor before taking guggulu if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have thyroid or liver disease, have a bleeding disorder, are about to have surgery, or take medicines such as blood thinners, thyroid medicines or contraceptive pills. Stop and seek advice if you notice a rash, stomach upset or any unusual symptoms.
Our recommendation
Choose a guggulu formula by its exact classical name and manufacturer, take it after meals with warm water at the label dose and for the stated course, and check with your doctor first if you have any of the conditions above.
