Gugulipids are preparations made from the mukul myrrh tree which grows in India. They have been used in classic Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of conditions including lipid disorders, obesity and arthritis.
Studies have shown that the gugulipid is an effective hypolipidemic (lipid lowering) agent for cholesterol and triglycerides. It has also been shown to protect against atheroma formation, as well as regression of the atherosclerosis in vessels previously known to have the plaquing. Gugulipid has also been shown to decrease platelet aggregation and increase fibrinolytic activity in patients with coronary artery disease, as well as stimulating thyroid function. Gugulipids should be used with caution by persons with with hepatic disease, inflamatory bowel disease, and diarrhea.