Guggul was primarily used to prevent this condition by lowering serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The extract isolates ketonic steroid compounds known as guggulsterones. These compounds have been shown to provide the lipid-lowering actions noted for guggul. Daily recommendations for guggul are typically based on the amount of guggulsterones in the extract. A common intake of guggulsterones is 25 mg three times per day.
Many people take the extracts daily for twelve to twenty-four weeks.
Early studies with the crude oleoresin reported numerous side effects, including diarrhea, anorexia, abdominal pain, and skin rash. Guggul should be used with caution by persons with liver disease and in cases of inflammatory bowel disease and diarrhea. A physician should be consulted for any case of elevated cholesterol and triglycerides. Guggul is either not available or may require a prescription. Please check with your nutritionally oriented physician.