LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, August 26, 2001: Over 2,500 years ago, ayurvedic physicians were able to effectively treat atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) with an herb called guggul. This article details how the wonder of this herb was somewhat “lost” until 1966 when G.V. Satyavati, a young Indian doctoral candidate from Banares University, reported that the herb had been used to treat obesity and fat disorders in ancient times. She made a direct correlation that guggul could be used to reduce cholesterol. Inspired by her discovery, Satyavati proceeded to carry out laboratory tests on rabbits (animal testing, the article doesn’t mention, is forbidden in ayurveda) and the studies revealed that the animals were protected from hardening of the arteries when the herb reduced the level of cholesterol in their blood. Further studies all confirm that the herb does lower cholesterol. Guggul has no side-effects, it increases thyroid function, helps the body burn calories and assists the body in breaking up blood clots which could prevent a stroke. While it is commendable that the virtues of guggul are being recognized, this is also an example of Western researchers laying claim to cures that were recognized thousands of years ago.
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