365betÓéÀÖ

Significance of Guggulu

Guggulu, derived from the Commiphora mukul tree, is a significant resin in Ayurveda known for its diverse therapeutic properties. It is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, hypolipidemic, and analgesic effects, making it a key ingredient in various Ayurvedic formulations aimed at treating conditions such as obesity, arthritis, and inflammation. Guggulu is also noted for its ability to balance vata and kapha doshas, contributing to its widespread use in traditional medicine for promoting overall health and well-being.

Synonyms: Commiphora mukul, Gum resin, Guggulipid, Guggulsterone, Guggul, Indian bdellium

In Dutch: Guggulu; In German: Guggulu; In Finnish: Guggulu; In Spanish: Guggulu

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Hindu concept of 'Guggulu'

Hinduism Books

In Hinduism, Guggulu is a versatile gum resin used in rituals, Ayurvedic medicine, and healing practices, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, purification benefits, and role in various treatments for balancing bodily doshas.

Significance in Rasashastra (chemistry and alchemy):
Rasashastra Books

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 4: Iatrochemistry

(1) A gum resin used in the medicinal mixture, contributing to the treatment properties.[1] (2) A substance that should also be used in its purified form.[2] (3) An important resin used in Ayurvedic medicine, included as an ingredient in the compound.[3]

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances

(1) Purified resin that is boiled and mixed into the compound to increase its efficacy.[4] (2) A substance that can be purified through various processes including dissolving and boiling.[5] (3) Another component of the panchamrita that assists in the treatment of the ashes of iron.[6]

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 2: Minerals (uparasa)

(1) A substance that is part of the pancha-mitra aiding in metal combination during essence extraction.[7] (2) A substance used in the mixture for extracting copper from tuttha, contributing to the chemical reaction in the heating process.[8]

From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 5: Treatment of various afflictions

(1) A resin used in Ayurvedic medicine known for its anti-inflammatory properties.[9]

Rasashastra is an important branch of Ayurveda, specialising in chemical interactions with herbs, metals and minerals. Some texts combine yogic and tantric practices with various alchemical operations. The ultimate goal of Rasashastra is not only to preserve and prolong life, but also to bestow wealth upon humankind.

Significance in Ayurveda (science of life):
Ayurveda Books

From: Sushruta Samhita, volume 4: Cikitsasthana

(1) An Ayurvedic herb noted for its anti-fat properties and ability to balance aggravated Vayu and Kapha, commonly used in various treatments.[10]

Ayurveda is a branch of Indian science dealing with medicine, herbalism, taxology, anatomy, surgery, alchemy and related topics. Traditional practice of Ayurveda in ancient India dates back to at least the first millenium BC. Literature is commonly written in Sanskrit using various poetic metres.

Significance in Purana and Itihasa (epic history):
Purana Books

From: Garuda Purana

(1) A resin used in creating compounds for fumigation, believed to assist in warding off negative planetary influences.[11]

The Purana refers to Sanskrit literature preserving ancient India’s vast cultural history, including historical legends, religious ceremonies, various arts and sciences. The eighteen mahapuranas total over 400,000 shlokas (metrical couplets) and date to at least several centuries BCE.