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Commiphora wightii has massive economic value and a wide array of medicinal uses in both ancient and modern therapeutics. It has been observed that the number of C. wightii populations in Rajasthan are declining substantially because of anthropogenic activities in the form of over-exploitation for resin and fuel. Very limited molecular studies have been reported on the molecular characterization of Commiphora wightii at national and international level. The present investigation aims to assess the genetic diversity within and among different populations to determine the relationship of genetic variability with geographical distribution of Rajasthan and to offer genetic resource information for future meaningful implementation of conservation programs applicable for C. wightii. The present study comprised of 11 RAPD markers generated 37 loci of which two were polymorphic with an average 4.85% DNA polymorphism. The maximum polymorphism (33.33%) was detected for OPU-8 marker. Similarly, 9 ISSR markers generated 47 loci of which 10 were polymorphic with an average 22.11% DNA polymorphism. The maximum polymorphism (33.33%) was observed for ISSR marker 811P, 814P and UBC857. Jaccard's similarity coefficient varied from 0.55-1.00 among the populations of Commiphora wightii using all the ISSR marker, while it ranges 0.20-0.95 for RAPD markers. The row dendrogram constructed using unweighted pair group method with arithmetic averages or UPGMA with a SAHN module of the NTSYS software which showed a phenetic representation of genetic relationships as revealed by the similarity coefficient for all the ISSR and RAPD profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guggulsterone (GS) is a bioactive phytosteroid found in the oleo-gum resin of guggul (Commiphora wightii). In Indian system of medicine, there is a long history of the use of gum and plant extract of guggul for treating various ailments. Due to the complex nature, low availability, and inconsistency of phytosteroids, their analysis is a difficult task. A fast, sensitive, selective, and robust densitometric high-performance thin-layer chromatographic method was developed to determine guggulsterones E and Z (GS-E and GS-Z) quantitatively in six different guggul-based formulations used in AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy) systems of medicine, which are used as chemical markers for the standardization of different guggul-based formulations. Separation was done on silica gel 60F254 aluminum plates using n-hexane–ethyl acetate (5:5, V/V) as the mobile phase. Quantification of GS-E and GS-Z was carried out using densitometry at 254 nm. A precise and accurate quantification method was developed in the linear working concentration range of 6.43‒24.12 µg/mL, 13.06‒42.43 µg/mL with good correlations, r2 0.9971 and 0.9994, respectively, for GS-E and GS-Z. The contents of GS-E and GS-Z were in the range of 50‒2240 µg/g and 70‒3330 µg/g, respectively, in different guggul-based formulations. The method was validated for precision, robustness, accuracy, limit of detection and limit of quantification, etc., as per the International Council for Harmonization guidelines. Specificity was confirmed using retention factor and spectra correlation of standard and sample tracks. Further, antioxidant profile of oleo-gum resin of guggul was carried out by using the TLC-bioautography approach. TLC-bioautography showed prominent spots of GS-E and GS-Z with other compounds in yellowish color against purple background of the developed plate. The developed method is economical and can be applied for the routine analysis of marketed polyherbal guggul-based formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over thousands of years, oleogum resin (also known as guggul) from the Commiphora mukul tree, found in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, has been used to treat hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, rheumatism, and obesity. The bioactive ingredient responsible for guggul's medicinal properties has been discovered as guggulsterone isolated from guggul. In the present work, Commiphora mukul components were obtained using bioactivity-guided fractionation. C. mukul exudates were extracted with ethyl alcohol, and the extract was subjected to column chromatography. Z-guggulsterone, dihydroguggulsterone, and progesterone were isolated by semi-preparative RP-HPLC. On the contrary, we isolated a mixture of E-guggulsterone and 3',3''- dimethoxysesamin from the fraction comprising the main components of different Sterones. ¹H, 13C NMR, and LC-MS confirmed the compound's structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major global public health challenge, and novel therapies are required to combat it. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been employed as delivery vehicles of anti-inflammatory drugs for RA therapy, and it has been recently realized that AgNPs have anti-inflammatory action on their own. However, their conventional synthesis processes might result in cytotoxicity and environmental hazards. Instead, the use of natural products as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles has arisen as an option to decrease the cytotoxic and environmental concerns associated with chemical synthesis of AgNPs. In this study, we challenged the efficacy of Commiphora mukul (guggul) aqueous extract as a reducing and/or capping agent for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. Guggul-mediated biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (G-AgNPs) were characterized via UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, their anti-arthritic potential was evaluated in an adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model. The fabricated NPs showed an absorption peak at 412 nm, corresponding to the typical surface plasmon resonance band of AgNPs. The synthesized G-AgNPs were nearly spherical, with a particle size of 337.6 ± 12.1 nm and a negative surface charge (−18.9 ± 1.8 mV). In AIA rat model, synthesized G-AgNPs exerted a potent anti-inflammatory action, as manifested by a remarkable reduction in paw volume (>40%) along with elicitation of a minimal arthritic score, compared to control rats. In addition, when compared to arthritic rats, treatment with G-AgNPs efficiently restored the activity of antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase, and catalase, indicating the efficiency of synthesized G-AgNPs in alleviating the oxidative stress associated with RA. Finally, histological examination revealed comparatively lower inflammatory cells infiltration in ankle joint tissue upon treatment with G-AgNPs. Collectively, biosynthesized G-AgNPs might represent a plausible therapeutic option for the management of RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The endogenous activity of NF-κB is often elevated in various types of cancer cells, particularly breast cancer, and is strongly correlated with the induction of target genes that can inhibit apoptosis, interact with cell-cycle regulation, promote cell invasion and contribute to tumorigenesis, inflammation, and metastatic growth as well as drug resistance. Thus, the downregulation of NF-κB is regarded as a promising therapeutic target to inhibit breast cancer growth and metastasis. Purpose: Since no NF-κB inhibitor has yet been approved by the FDA, we aim to identify small molecules from natural resources that could potentially inhibit NF-κB and suppress breast cancer metastasis. Study design: In the current study, nineteen extracts from different valuable medicinal plants were screened for their prospective biological activity against NF-κB transcriptional activation in 4T1 breast cancer cells, followed by isolation and purification analysis of the major active compounds from guggul extract, as it exhibited the most inhibitory efficacy of NF-κB activation. Results: A bioassay-guided isolation of active constituents from the promising candidate, guggul methanol extract (GU-M), using NF-κB reporter gene assay was performed to identify potential anti-metastatic agents for triple-negative breast cancer cells (TNBC) and resulted in the isolation of four known major compounds namely; guggulsterone M (1), guggulsterol Ι (2), myyrhanol A (3), and myyrhanone A (4). Conclusion: Among the isolated compounds, myrrhanol A and myrrhanone A at the concentration of 10 μM markedly inhibited the intrinsic NF-κB pathway and potently suppressed the proliferative and metastatic abilities of murine and human breast cancer cells; 4T1, MDA-MB-231, and MDA-MB-453.

Small shrub known as Guggul [Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari] is found in tropical and subtropical areas. It is supposed to be originated in arid regions of central Asia and northern Africa prevalent in the eastern Himalayas and western India on Rocky Tracks. The gum and bark of the plant are effective in treating obesity, arthritis, indolence, piles, gonorrhoea, cough, hernia, and leucoderma. Guggul is a 1.8-4.0 m tall, shrub with tangled, twisted branches and glandularpubescent juvenile portions. Traditionally, it is used to treat several diseases by the tribes or ethnic groups in various parts of the country. It is pharmaceutically and therapeutically relevant owing to the existence of different secondary metabolites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oleogum resins of the genus Commiphora have been used in traditional medicines for centuries. More than 200 Commiphora species exhibit highly variable phytochemical compositions. A novel highly selective, sensitive, accurate HPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated to quantify five characteristic phytosteroids and furanosesquiterpenoids, namely (E)-guggulsterone, (Z)-guggulsterone, curzerenone, furanoeudesma-1,3-diene, and myrrhone. The resulting contents and additionally GC analysis were used to classify and differentiate Commiphora oleogum resins of the species C. myrrha, C. erythraea, C. mukul, C. holtziana, C. confusa, and C. kua, as well as unspecified resins. Interestingly, a Commiphora sample from Ogaden, Ethiopia, comprised 446 ng/mg guggulsterones presumed to be unique to C. mukul from the Indian subcontinent. However, Commiphora from Ogaden differed considerably from C. mukul in respect to guggulsterones isomer's ratio. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of Commiphora extracts, essential oils, botanical drugs containing Commiphora, and pure compounds against the epidermoid carcinoma A431, malignant melanoma RPMI-7951 and SK-MEL-28 cells was investigated in vitro. Thereby, especially C. mukul extract and C. myrrha essential oil exhibited high cytotoxicity against skin cancer cells with IC50 of 2.9–10.9 µg/mL, but were less toxic to normal keratinocytes. In summary, Commiphora oleogum resins and its phytochemicals warrant further investigation aiming at chemotaxonomical classification as well as application in skin cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commiphora mukul of the family Burseraceae, commonly known as guggul, is commonly used worldwide. The major phytoconstituents present in the C. mukul are different steroidal components, principally guggulsterone E and Z. Guggul should be used after purification process mentioned in various ayurvedic texts. The present study reports a simple and rapid quantitative analysis of C. mukul in unpurified and purified guggul by a high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) method. The mobile phase contained toluene‒acetone (9:1, V/V). Guggulsterone E and Z were analyzed densitometrically and the absorbance wavelength was 250 nm. The method showed RF spots at 0.18 and 0.23, corresponding to guggulsterone E and Z in various samples. The calibration curve of standard guggulsterone E and Z showed good linear relationship in the concentration range of 60‒360 ng/spot for E and Z isomers with r2 = 0.99 and 0.99, respectively. In the present study, unpurified guggul contained 59.57% guggulsterone E and 49.43% guggulsterone Z. The cow urine purified guggul showed decrease in E enantiomer content 42.5%, while increase in Z enantiomer content 57.5%, suggesting that there are chances of inversion of configuration because of the acidic pH of cow urine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guggul is an oleo-gum resin obtained from plants belonging to the genera Commiphora and Boswellia, within the Burseraceae family. Its source are mainly two species: Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhand. (syn. Commiphora mukul (Hook. ex Stocks) Engl. and Boswellia serrata (Roxb. ex Colebr.), which are native to India. In this area, they have been known from centuries and used in the traditional Indian medicine – Ayurveda for the treatment of variety of disorders such as: rheumatism, inflammation, liver dysfunction, gout, obesity, diabetes and disorders of lipids metabolism. The oleo-gum occurs in the resin canals located in the larger veins of the leaf and in the soft base of the stem. It is obtained through incision of the tree bark and outflow of the viscous, golden substance with characteristic myrrh-like fragrance. Guggul derived from C. wightii is a mixture of various chemical compounds, namely: an essential oil consisting of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes; as well as diterpenes, triterpenes, steroids, phenolic acids, lignans, guggultetrols, carbohydrates and amino acids. Whereas, the raw material obtained from B. serrata consists of resin, which is mostly made up of tetra- and pentacyclic triterpene acids, and moreover a hydrophilic fraction and an essential oil being a mixture of terpenes. It has been proven that guggul exerts various biological activities and influences life function through effects on lipids and glucose metabolism, endogenous nuclear receptors, inflammatory mediators or thyroid hormone homeostasis. It also has valuable antineoplastic, antimicrobial, hepato-, neuro- and cardioprotective properties. Nowadays, when the majority of the society takes notice to the healthy lifestyle and condition of natural environment, guggul and its components are increasingly used as dietary supplements. The following review summarizes the knowledge on the sources, phytochemistry, traditional and modern use, pharmacological properties and toxicological data of the raw material derived from C. wightii and B. serrata.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a major global public health challenge, and novel therapies are required to combat it. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been employed as delivery vehicles of anti-inflammatory drugs for RA therapy, and it has been recently realized that AgNPs have anti-inflammatory action on their own. However, their conventional synthesis processes might result in cytotoxicity and environmental hazards. Instead, the use of natural products as a reducing and stabilizing agent in the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles has arisen as an option to decrease the cytotoxic and environmental concerns associated with chemical synthesis of AgNPs. In this study, we challenged the efficacy of Commiphora mukul (guggul) aqueous extract as a reducing and/or capping agent for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. Guggul-mediated biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (G-AgNPs) were characterized via UV-vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, their anti-arthritic potential was evaluated in an adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) model. The fabricated NPs showed an absorption peak at 412 nm, corresponding to the typical surface plasmon resonance band of AgNPs. The synthesized G-AgNPs were nearly spherical, with a particle size of 337.6 ± 12.1 nm and a negative surface charge (−18.9 ± 1.8 mV). In AIA rat model, synthesized G-AgNPs exerted a potent anti-inflammatory action, as manifested by a remarkable reduction in paw volume (>40%) along with elicitation of a minimal arthritic score, compared to control rats. In addition, when compared to arthritic rats, treatment with G-AgNPs efficiently restored the activity of antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase, and catalase, indicating the efficiency of synthesized G-AgNPs in alleviating the oxidative stress associated with RA. Finally, histological examination revealed comparatively lower inflammatory cells infiltration in ankle joint tissue upon treatment with G-AgNPs. Collectively, biosynthesized G-AgNPs might represent a plausible therapeutic option for the management of RA.

Oleogum resins of the genus Commiphora have been used in traditional medicines for centuries. More than 200 Commiphora species exhibit highly variable phytochemical compositions. A novel highly selective, sensitive, accurate HPLC-MS/MS method was developed and validated to quantify five characteristic phytosteroids and furanosesquiterpenoids, namely (E)-guggulsterone, (Z)-guggulsterone, curzerenone, furanoeudesma-1,3-diene, and myrrhone. The resulting contents and additionally GC analysis were used to classify and differentiate Commiphora oleogum resins of the species C. myrrha, C. erythraea, C. mukul, C. holtziana, C. confusa, and C. kua, as well as unspecified resins. Interestingly, a Commiphora sample from Ogaden, Ethiopia, comprised 446 ng/mg guggulsterones presumed to be unique to C. mukul from the Indian subcontinent. However, Commiphora from Ogaden differed considerably from C. mukul in respect to guggulsterones isomer’s ratio. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of Commiphora extracts, essential oils, botanical drugs containing Commiphora, and pure compounds against the epidermoid carcinoma A431, malignant melanoma RPMI-7951 and SK-MEL-28 cells was investigated in vitro. Thereby, especially C. mukul extract and C. myrrha essential oil exhibited high cytotoxicity against skin cancer cells with IC50 of 2.9–10.9 µg/mL, but were less toxic to normal keratinocytes. In summary, Commiphora oleogum resins and its phytochemicals warrant further investigation aiming at chemotaxonomical classification as well as application in skin cancer treatment.

Background: Guggulipid, an oleo-gum resin extracted from the bark of Commiphora wightii of the Burseraceae family, holds a significant place in Ayurvedic medicine due to its historical use in treating various disorders, including inflammation, gout, rheumatism, obesity, and lipid metabolism imbalances., Objective: This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the molecular targets of guggulipids and explore their cellular responses. Furthermore, it summarizes the findings from in-vitro, in-vivo , and clinical investigations related to arthritis and various inflammatory conditions., Methods: A comprehensive survey encompassing in-vitro, in-vivo , and clinical studies has been conducted to explore the therapeutic capacity of guggulipid in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. Various molecular pathways, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), PI3-kinase/AKT, JAK/STAT, nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and NFκB signaling pathways, have been targeted to assess the antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory effects of this compound., Results: The research findings reveal that guggulipid demonstrates notable antiarthritic and anti-inflammatory effects by targeting key molecular pathways involved in inflammatory responses. These pathways include COX-2, VEGF, PI3-kinase/AKT, JAK/STAT, iNOS, and NFκB signaling pathways. in-vitro, in-vivo , and clinical studies collectively support the therapeutic potential of guggulipid in managing rheumatoid arthritis and related inflammatory conditions., Conclusion: This review provides a deeper understanding of the therapeutic mechanisms and potential of guggulipid in the management of rheumatoid arthritis. The collective evidence strongly supports the promising role of guggulipid as a therapeutic agent, encouraging further research and development in guggulipid-based treatments for these conditions., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Extensive research during last 2 decades has revealed that most drugs discovered today, although costs billions of dollars for discovery, and yet they are highly ineffective in their clinical response. For instance, the European Medicines Agency has approved 68 anti-cancer drugs, and out of which 39 has reached the market level with no indication of increased survival nor betterment of quality of life. Even when drugs did improve survival rate compared to available treatment strategies, most of these were found to be clinically insignificant. This is a fundamental problem with modern drug discovery which is based on thinking that most chronic diseases are caused by alteration of a single gene and thus most therapies are single gene-targeted therapies. However, extensive research has revealed that most chronic diseases are caused by multiple gene products. Although most drugs designed by man are mono-targeted therapies, however, those designed by “mother nature” and have been used for thousands of years, are “multi-targeted” therapies. In this review, we examine two agents that have been around for thousands of years, namely “guggul” from Commiphora and Boswellia. Although we are all familiar with the search engine “google,” this is another type of “guggul” that has been used for centuries and being explored for its various biological activities. The current review summarizes the traditional uses, chemistry, in vitro and in vivo biological activities, molecular targets, and clinical trials performed with these agents.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of standardized hydroalcholic extract of Commiphora mukul (HECM) in animal model of chronic stress medicated depression, namely olfactory bulbectomy (OBX) model in rats. Effects of 14-day (subacute) oral pretreatment of HECM (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) were evaluated on depression and stress related parameters on OBX rats. Separate groups for sham control, OBX control and positive controls namely imipramine (20 mg/kg), fluoxetine (30 mg/kg) and desipramine (15 mg/kg) were also maintained. Behavioral and physiological parameters in open field and elevated plus maze were recorded. HECM showed dose-dependent reversal of OBX-induced physiological effects such as reduction of body weight, body temperature, heart rate and serum sodium concentration. HECM also showed reversal effects on OBX induced food intake increase and hyperactivity in open field and elevated plus maze paradigm. In conclusion, HECM demonstrated restorative effects in OBX induced depression model in rats probably due to stress reliving mechanisms.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Commiphora wightii is exploited in India and Pakistan for an oleo-resin (gum guggul) traditionally used in Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani medical systems. Processed C. wightii oleo-resin products are exported from India to 42 countries, including re-export to Pakistan, for anti-inflammatory use and as an anti-inflammatory and an anti-obesity treatment considered to lower cholesterol and lipid levels. The C. wightii export trade has particular relevance to the European Union because Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, and United Kingdom are importing countries. Demand and prices for C. wightii oleo-resin are increasing and wild stocks of C. wightii are in decline. The overexploitation of C. wightii after tapping for its commercially valuable oleo-resin is not a new problem, however, but one that has existed for over 50 years. Lopping and chopping trees to extract C. wightii oleo-resin has had a devastating impact on C. wightii populations since the 1960's. Aim of the study The aim of this study was to review the sustainability of the global trade in C. wightii oleo-resin. This included reviewing studies on resin tapping methods and the impacts of wild harvest on C. wightii populations in India and Pakistan. Materials and methods Firstly, we reviewed studies on impacts of C. wightii oleo-resin harvest and on the policy responses taken in relation to harvest and trade in C. wightii oleo-resin. Secondly, we reviewed studies on C. wightii cultivation. Thirdly, global trade data for C. wightii were analyzed. Results and conclusions Destructive harvest to obtain the gum is the major threat facing this species. C. wightii populations are also fragmented by habitat loss through clearing for farming. Cutting and lopping in order to extract the medicinal gum are a major threat to C. wightii populations, as is poor recruitment due to grazing by livestock. As a result of over-exploitation, C. wightii oleo-resin production has declined in India. In Gujarat, a key production area, the decline over a 50-year period has been from 30 t in 1963, to 2.42 t in 1999 to 1.6 t in 2013. Consequently, large quantities of C. wightii oleo-resin (around 505 t/year) are imported into India from Pakistan. An estimated 193 t/year of crude gum equivalent is exported from India in the form of processed products. With remaining populations in decline due to commercial exploitation for international trade, a range of policy options (such as CITES Appendix II listing) and practical conservation actions (such as cultivation) need to be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive research during last 2 decades has revealed that most drugs discovered today, although costs billions of dollars for discovery, and yet they are highly ineffective in their clinical response. For instance, the European Medicines Agency has approved 68 anti-cancer drugs, and out of which 39 has reached the market level with no indication of increased survival nor betterment of quality of life. Even when drugs did improve survival rate compared to available treatment strategies, most of these were found to be clinically insignificant. This is a fundamental problem with modern drug discovery which is based on thinking that most chronic diseases are caused by alteration of a single gene and thus most therapies are single gene-targeted therapies. However, extensive research has revealed that most chronic diseases are caused by multiple gene products. Although most drugs designed by man are mono-targeted therapies, however, those designed by “mother nature” and have been used for thousands of years, are “multi-targeted” therapies. In this review, we examine two agents that have been around for thousands of years, namely “guggul” from Commiphora and Boswellia. Although we are all familiar with the search engine “google,” this is another type of “guggul” that has been used for centuries and being explored for its various biological activities. The current review summarizes the traditional uses, chemistry, in vitro and in vivo biological activities, molecular targets, and clinical trials performed with these agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of herbal medicines has increased dramatically over the past few years. The United States alone noted a 380% increase in the consumption of these products. Although the common practice of taking over-the-counter herbal soups, herbal teas and other such prepacked preparations was not associated with adverse events at large, still, some herbs are known to cause problems, especially when large doses are taken. The American Society of Anaesthesiologist (ASA) has taken a conservative stance and recommended that it is prudent to stop these products at least 2-3 weeks prior to anaesthesia and surgery. This advice may be difficult to implement as most preoperative evaluations occur only a few days prior to surgery. Some of the Ayurvedic preparations have shown to improve the patient outcome when taken during the perioperative period. Hence, the conservative stance by ASA may not always benefit the patient. More scientific studies are needed to have more targeted recommendations. This article puts forward the facts that need to be addressed by researchers in the future.

Commiphora wightii is an endangered, endemic species found in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, India and adjoining areas of Pakistan. The populations of this plant are rapidly dwindling due to overexploitation for their medicinally important resin. Analysis of nucleotide sequences of the internal transcribed spacer of rDNAs revealed low genetic diversity (π = 0.03905; θw = 0.05418) and high population structure (ϕST = 0.206). Parsimony based assessment and Bayesian analyses were conducted on the dataset. Mantel’s test showed a statistically significant positive correlation between genetic and geographic distance (r2 = 0.3647; p = 0.023). Anthropogenic overexploitation of C. wightii for its natural resources has resulted in population fragmentation. Initiatives should be taken immediately to preserve the diversity of this important plant species.

Background: Hypolipidemic activity of gugulipid has been widely described in traditional literature. Objective: This study was done to evaluate hypolipidemic activity of guggul and atorvaststin monotherapy in comparison to their combination in rabbits. Materials and Methods: Male New Zealand White rabbits (body weight 1.3–1.8 kg and age 8–10 weeks) were made hyperlipidemic by feeding cholesterol (0.5 g/kg) for three weeks and randomly divided into a control and three treatment groups receiving: atorvastatin (3.7 mg/kg), guggul (3.5 mg/kg) and their combination (same dose) for the next three weeks. Body weight measurements, estimation of serum lipid profile were done at the beginning, after three and six weeks, respectively. Histopathological examination of liver, heart and aorta was done after six weeks. Statistical analysis was done with SPSS version 16.0 using one-way and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post-hoc multiple comparison test with two tailed P value < 0.05 as significant. Results: All treated groups had significant reduction in cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) in comparison to pre-treatment values and control group, and had significant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in comparison to pre-treatment values. Conclusion: Combination of atorvastatin and guggul was comparable to their monotherapies in improving lipid profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of a natural supplement (Kepar; Rikrea, Italy), containing several plant extracts such as curcuma longa, silymarin, guggul, chlorogenic acid, and inulin, was evaluated in 78 patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS; 45 men; age: 62 ± 9 years). Kepar at a dose of 2 pills/d was given for 4 months as add-on therapy to the ongoing treatment, maintained at fixed doses for the entire study. Anthropometric variables, plasma lipids, glucose parameters, and oxidative stress were measured at baseline and after 4 months. We found significant reductions in body weight (from 81.1 ± 13.5 to 79.4 ± 12.5 kg, P < .0001), body mass index (from 29.6 [23.7] to 29.3 [21.9] kg/m2, P = .001), and waist circumference (from 105 ± 11 to 102 ± 10 cm, P = .0004) as well as in fasting glucose (from 6.5 [11.7] to 6.4 [7.6] mmol/L, P = .014) and total cholesterol (from 4.8 ± 1.4 to 4.5 ± 1.0 mmol/L, P = .03). No significant changes were found in the other appraised parameters, including oxidative stress. In conclusion, after few months of treatment Kepar seems to exert beneficial effects in patients with MetS. Larger studies with a longer follow-up period are needed to confirm these preliminary findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Persian Medicine, many plants have been used in wound healing for thousands of years, and recent evidence indicates the beneficial effects of plant extracts on healing skin wounds. Commiphora mukul oleo gum resin has been considered for a long time due to its various properties such as milk-enhancing, diuretic, and healing the mouth and larynx wounds. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of Commiphora mukul oleo gum resin on wound healing in rats. Forty-two albino Wistar rats have randomly divided into six groups: The first group was without treatment, the second group was treated with Eucerin, the third group was treated with phenytoin cream %1, the fourth to sixth groups were treated with Commiphora mukul ointment 2%, 4%, and 8% respectively. Treatment was performed once a day for 14 days, and the wound area was measured daily. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were taken to measure vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). The histological evaluation and the strength test of the repaired tissue were performed. The results showed that seven days after treatment, the wound area decreased significantly in the groups treated with mukul gum extract compared to the control groups (p0.05). At the end of the experiment, there was no significant difference in wound area reduction between the groups. Commiphora mukul gum extract increased VEGF and significantly improved skin elasticity. The results of this study indicate the Wound healing potential of Commiphora mukul.

The hypolipidemic effects of the poorly soluble ayurvedic resin guggul, especially the molecular targets and mechanism, have not been well investigated to date. In the present study, we have formulated a liquid product, GU-MCT810, composed of a proprietary Commiphora mukul gum resin extract and medium-chain triglyceride and investigated its hypolipidemic effects in vitro. Treatment of HepG2 cells significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and increased the high-density lipoprotein/low-density lipoprotein ratio. GU-MCT810 showed direct inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase activity in a dose-dependent manner and compared very well with the inhibitory effect of statins like Pravastatin and Mevastatin. The adipocyte differentiation was also inhibited by GU-MCT810 treatment. GU-MCT810 increased the AMPKα phosphorylation and AMPK kinase activity and inhibited the phosphorylated form of mTOR expression, indicating the molecular targets affected by the nutraceutical compound. The preparation also highly upregulated the expression of LXR and PPARα genes and moderately upregulated BABP and SHP genes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Guggul [ Commiphora wightii (Arnot) Bhandari], a polygamous woody tree valued for its medicinal oleoresin gum rich in guggulsterone, is reported to reproduce via sporophytic apomixis. Details about its natural diversity, and mode and extent of sexual reproduction are, however, scanty. Therefore, a comprehensive investigation of guggul reproduction was made employing histology, controlled pollination, flow cytometry and RAPD analyses of progeny to assess the occurrence and extent of sexual reproduction. We report the discovery of obligate sexual female plants of guggul through these studies. Also, we document a unique pollen-pistil incompatibility that prevents all but one pollen tube growth into the style to effect fertilization. Consequently, obligate sexual female plants produced single-seeded fruit although each flower contains four ovules. In apomictic plants bearing more than one seed per fruit, at most only one seed was of sexual origin. Further, flow cytometric analysis conclusively demonstrated that endosperm development occurs either autonomously or following triple fusion. Autonomous endosperm development was invariably associated with endoreduplication, a unique feature of apomixis in guggul. Despite predominance of apomixis, a low frequency of sexual reproduction was found to persist in apomictic plants yielding new genetic variation. RAPD analysis clearly distinguished accessions and was useful in identifying sexual progenies. The implications of the novel pollen-pistil interaction on establishment and spread of apomixis in guggul are discussed. The study has not only revealed novel features of guggul reproduction but also opened new opportunities for molecular genetic analysis of sporophytic apomixis and breeding improvement of guggul. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reports physicochemical characterization and antioxidant activity of essential oils extracted from guggul (Commiphora wightii) exudates collected from different places in Madhya Pradesh, India. The guggul exudates were hydrodistilled for 3-4 h in Clevenger apparatus. The oil obtained was dried over anhydrous Na2 SO4 and stored at 4° until testing. Before extraction of oils from the exudates, their % moisture and tristimulus values of the colors namely L (white-black), a (green-red) and b (blue-yellow) were determined. Physicochemical characterization of the extracted oils was carried out to determine their solubility, yield%, acid value (mg/KOH/g), saponification value (mg/KOH/g), ester value, iodine value (g/g), peroxide value (mEq/kg) and Fourier transformed infrared analyses. The storage-effect on the % moisture and tristimulus values of the colors of guggul exudates as also the % oil yield and physicochemical parameters of the essential oils extracted from them, were studied using three different packaging materials viz., local plastic, low density polyethylene (200 G) and high density polyethylene (200 G). The antioxidant potential of extracted oils was evaluated by free radical scavenging activity using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oleo-gum resin of Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari, a pharmacologically important balsamiferous woody shrub, has been used in treating various ailments and disorders since ancient times (2000 B.C.) due to the presence of steroidal compound guggulsterone. Two bioactive isomers of guggulsterone, E and Z, are responsible for lipid- and cholesterol-lowering and anti-cancerous activities. Further, guggul has been approved as food supplement by US-FDA as well as Council of Europe. Indiscriminate harvest of C. wightii from wild with negligible conservation efforts has lead to its inclusion in IUCN assemblage of endangered plant species. For identification of high guggulsterone yielding ecotypes of C. wightii, using high-performance thin-layer chromatographic (HPTLC) analysis, stem samples were collected from 50 plants from eleven locations in arid tracts of Haryana, Gujarat and Rajasthan. Dried, powdered material was subjected to extraction with petroleum ether using soxhlet apparatus. Samples were spotted on precoated activated silica plates (60F-254) and were developed using toluene-acetone (9:1 v/v) as mobile phase. The analysis was carried out in the absorbance mode at 250 nm using HPTLC scanner. The regression analysis data for the calibration plots for E and Z guggulsterone showed good linear relationship with R = 1 and 0.9897, respectively. Highest concentration of guggulsterone E (284 μg/g dry wt) was found in the accession collected from Palana, Bikaner whereas highest guggulsterone Z concentration (89.5 μg/g dry wt) was found in the accession collected from CAZRI, Jodhpur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new compounds;epi-mukulin, (Z)-Δ1,2dehydroguggulsterone andΔ6,7dehydro-20-hydroxygugglsterone were isolated from then-hexane-soluble fraction (HSF) of the methanol extract of guggul, the oleogum resin ofCommiphora wightiitogether with six known compounds: diasesartemin, (+)-epi-magnolin, (+)-diayangambin, gugglsterol I, (E)-guggulsterone and (Z)-guggulsterone. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of different spectroscopic data.α-Glucosidase inhibitory effects of HSF and the isolated compounds were evaluated calorimetrically. The HSF showed significantα-glucosidase inhibitory effect [IC50value of 140 µg mL−1(p < 0.05)]. Under the assay conditions, diasesartemin (IC50 = 60.6 ± 0.01 µM) was found to be more potent than the positive control, acarbose (IC50 = 92.94 ± 0.01 µM); a knownα-glucosidase inhibitor (p < 0.05). The IC50values ofepi-mukulin and (Z)-guggulsterone were found to be 159.33 and 132.14 µM, respectively. Other compounds showed weakα-glucosidase inhibitory effects, <30% inhibition of the enzyme activity at 0.1 mg mL−1. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The antihyperlipidemic activity of resinoids of guggul (Commiphora mukul/Commiphora wightii), belonging to family Burseraceae (Genus: Commiphora), collected from different parts of India (Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan), was studied on cholesterol-rich high fat diet-induced model of hyperlipidemia in rats. The resinoids of these exudates were prepared in ethyl acetate and ethyl alcohol. The physicochemical characterization of these resinoids was carried out to determine their appearance, %yield, %moisture, %ash, acid value (mg/KOH/g), saponification value (mg/KOH/g), ester value and iodine value (g/g). Antihyperlipidemic study was carried out on all resinoids in high fat diet induced model of hyperlipidemia in Wistar albino rats. The result demonstrated that the resinoids of exudates of Commiphora wightii and Commiphora mukul, collected from Gujarat and extracted in ethyl acetate, and the resinoids of exudates of Commiphora mukul, collected from Madhya Pradesh and extracted in ethyl acetate, possessed significantly higher antihyperlipidemic activity compared with other resinoids, which may be due to regional/geographical variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of herbal medicines has increased dramatically over the past few years. The United States alone noted a 380% increase in the consumption of these products. Although the common practice of taking over-the-counter herbal soups, herbal teas and other such prepacked preparations was not associated with adverse events at large, still, some herbs are known to cause problems, especially when large doses are taken. The American Society of Anaesthesiologist (ASA) has taken a conservative stance and recommended that it is prudent to stop these products at least 2-3 weeks prior to anaesthesia and surgery. This advice may be difficult to implement as most preoperative evaluations occur only a few days prior to surgery. Some of the Ayurvedic preparations have shown to improve the patient outcome when taken during the perioperative period. Hence, the conservative stance by ASA may not always benefit the patient. More scientific studies are needed to have more targeted recommendations. This article puts forward the facts that need to be addressed by researchers in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Guggul, herbal extract from resin of the Commiphora mukul tree, is widely used in Asia as a cholesterol-lowering agent based on Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Its popularity for this use is increasing in the US and Western Europe. Guggulsterones, the presumed bioactive compounds of guggul, may antagonise two nuclear hormone receptors involved in cholesterol metabolism, which is a possible explanation for hypolipidemic effects of these extracts. However, publications of efficacy data on the use of guggul extracts in Western populations are scarce. Objective: To study the efficacy of a guggul-based formulation (short: guggul) on blood lipids in healthy adults with moderately increased cholesterol. Methods: Double-blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial in Norwegian general practice. 43 women and men, age 27–70, with moderately increased cholesterol, randomised to use 2160mg guggul (4 capsules) daily, or placebo for 12 weeks. Outcome measures: Mean change in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and total cholesterol/HDL-C ratio compared with baseline. Lipids were analysed at baseline, and at 6 and 12 weeks. In addition, unexpected events and adverse effects were recorded. Results: Two dropouts, one withdrawal, and incomplete lab results for six persons left 34 participants to accomplish the trial (18-guggul, 16-placebo) with complete lab test data. After 12 weeks, mean levels of total cholesterol and HDL-C in the active group were significantly reduced compared with the placebo group. However, the mean levels of LDL-C, triglycerides, and total cholesterol/HDL-C ratio between the two groups did not change significantly. Ten guggul users (vs. four in the placebo group) reported side effects: mild gastrointestinal discomfort (n =7), possible thyroid problems (n =2), and generalized skin rash (n =1). The latter resulted in withdrawal from trial. Conclusions: Even if total cholesterol and HDL-C were significantly reduced, the clinical magnitude of this remains obscure. More and larger studies are needed to establish effects and safety of guggul-based formulations in the treatment for hypercholesterolemia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

According to ayurvedic texts shodhan vidhi is an important process which enhances the biological activity of a compound and reduces the toxicity at the same time. Before incorporating into formulations, guggul is processed using Shodhan vidhi involving different shodhan dravyas like gulvel, gomutra, triphala, dashmul. We have evaluated the antispasmodic activity of guggul on ileum of guinea pig and Wistar rats. The animals were sacrificed and ileum tissue of guinea pig and rat was isolated and tested for antispasmodic activity using different spasmogens like acetylcholine, histamine and barium chloride. It was observed that the different shodhit guggul (shudha guggul) i.e. processed using different shodhan vidhi, showed good antispasmodic activity as compared to Ashudha guggul. When acetylcholine was used as spasmogen, gulvel and triphala shodhit guggul showed good antispasmodic activity than other shodhit guggul. Thus shodhan vidhi enhances the therapeutic properties of guggul. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Guggulsterone (GS) and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] have been shown to influence adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. We investigated the ability of GS and 1,25(OH)2D3, alone and in combination to inhibit adipogenesis and induce apoptosis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Maturing preadipocytes were treated with 1,25(OH)2D3 in combination with GS for 6days during differentiation. GS and 1,25(OH)2D3 each inhibited lipid accumulation, but the combination potentiated the inhibition of lipid accumulation. Apoptosis was increased by 1,25(OH)2D3 while GS had no effect, but GS+1,25(OH)2D3 increased apoptosis more than either compound alone. Furthermore, GS+1,25(OH)2D3 caused a potentiated decrease in the expression of aP2 and farnesoid X receptor expression more than either compound alone. In addition, 1,25(OH)2D3 increased vitamin D receptor expression after 6days, while GS had no effect. GS+1,25(OH)2D3, however, caused a potentiated increase in the expression of VDR. These findings show that GS potentiates 1,25(OH)2D3’s anti-adipogenic and pro-apoptotic effects in maturing 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Oleogum resin (known as guggul) from the guggul tree, Commiphora mukul, found in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, has been used to treat various diseases including hyper-cholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, rheumatism, and obesity over several thousands of years. Guggulsterone isolated from guggul has been identified as the bioactive constituent responsible for guggul's therapeutic effects. Since the first study demonstrating the therapeutic effects of guggul in an animal model in 1966, numerous preclinical and clinical trails have been carried out. Although differences in study design, methodological quality, statistical analysis, sample size, and subject population result in certain inconsistencies in the response to therapy, the cumulative data from in vitro, preclinical, and clinical studies largely support the therapeutic claims for guggul described in the ancient Ayurvedic text. However, future clinical studies with much larger size and longer term are required to confirm these claims. The cardiovascular benefits of the therapy are derived from the multiple pharmacological activities associated with guggul or guggulsterone, notably its hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antiinflammatory activities. It has been established that guggulsterone is an antagonist at farnesoid x receptor (FXR), a key transcriptional regulator for the maintenance of cholesterol and bile acid homeostasis. The FXR antagonism by guggulsterone has been proposed as a mechanism for its hypolipidemic effect. A recent study demonstrates that guggulsterone upregulates the bile salt export pump (BSEP), an efflux transporter responsible for removal of cholesterol metabolites, bile acids from the liver. Such upregulation of BSEP expression by guggulsterone favors cholesterol metabolism into bile acids, and thus represents another possible mechanism for its hypolipidemic activity. Guggulsterone has been found to potently inhibit the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), a critical regulator of inflammatory responses. Such repression of NF-κB activation by guggulsterone has been proposed as a mechanism of the antiinflammatory effect of guggulsterone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genistein (G), an isoflavone, and guggulsterone (GS), the active substance in guggulipid, have been reported to possess therapeutic effects for obesity. In the present study, we investigated the effects of combinations of G plus GS on apoptosis and adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells. In mature adipocytes, G and GS individually caused apoptosis, but combination of G plus GS significantly increased apoptosis, more than either compound alone. Furthermore, G plus GS caused a greater increase in procaspase-3 cleavage, Bax expression, cytochrome c release, and proteolytic cleavage of PARP than either compound alone. In maturing preadipocytes G and GS each suppressed lipid accumulation, but the combination potentiated the inhibition of lipid accumulation. These results suggest that combination of genistein and guggulsterone may exert anti-obesity effects by inhibiting adipogenesis and inducing apoptosis in adipocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Objective: To evaluate the scientific evidence on guggul for hyperlipidemia including expert opinion, folkloric precedent, history, pharmacology, kinetics/dynamics, interactions, adverse effects, toxicology, and dosing. Methods: Electronic searches were conducted in nine databases, 20 additional journals (not indexed in common databases), and bibliographies from 50 selected secondary references. No restrictions were placed on language or quality of publications. All literature collected pertained to efficacy in humans, dosing, precautions, adverse effects, use in pregnancy/lactation, interactions, alteration of laboratory assays, and mechanism of action. Standardized inclusion/exclusion criteria were utilized for selection. Results: Before 2003, most scientific evidence suggested that guggulipid elicits significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides, as well as elevations in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) [Kotiyal JP, Bisht DB, Singh DS. Double blind cross-over trial of gum guggulu (Commiphora mukul) Fraction A in hypercholesterolemia. J Res Indian Med Yoga Hom 1979;14(2):11–6; Kotiyal JP, Singh DS, Bisht DB. Gum guggulu (Commiphora mukul) fraction ‘A’ in obesity—a double-blind clinical trial. J Res Ayur Siddha 1985;6(1, 3, 4):20–35; Gaur SP, Garg RK, Kar AM, et al. Gugulipid, a new hypolipidaemic agent, in patients of acute ischaemic stroke: effect on clinical outcome, platelet function and serum lipids. Asia Pacif J Pharm 1997;12:65–9; Urizar NL, Liverman AB, Dodds DT, et al. A natural product that lowers cholesterol as an antagonist ligand for the FXR. Science 3 May 2002 [Science Express Reports]; Nityanand S, Srivastava JS, Asthana OP. Clinical trials with gugulipid. A new hypolipidaemic agent. J Assoc Physicians India 1989;37(5):323–8; Kuppurajan K, Rajagopalan SS, Rao TK, et al. Effect of guggulu (Commiphora mukul—Engl.) on serum lipids in obese, hypercholesterolemic and hyperlipemic cases. J Assoc Physicians India 1978;26(5):367–73; Gopal K, Saran RK, Nityanand S, et al. Clinical trial of ethyl acetate extract of gum gugulu (gugulipid) in primary hyperlipidemia. J Assoc Physicians India 1986;34(4):249–51; Agarwal RC, Singh SP, Saran RK, et al. Clinical trial of gugulipid—a new hypolipidemic agent of plant origin in primary hyperlipidemia. Indian J Med Res 1986;84:626–34; Verma SK, Bordia A. Effect of Commiphora mukul (gum guggulu) in patients of hyperlipidemia with special reference to HDL-cholesterol. Indian J Med Res 1988;87:356–60; Singh RB, Niaz MA, Ghosh S. Hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of Commiphora mukul as an adjunct to dietary therapy in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 1994;8(4):659–64; Ghorai M, Mandal SC, Pal M, et al. A comparative study on hypocholesterolaemic effect of allicin, whole germinated seeds of bengal gram and guggulipid of gum gugglu. Phytother Res 2000;14(3):200–02]. However, most published studies were small and methodologically flawed. In August 2003, a well-designed trial reported small significant increases in serum LDL levels associated with the use of guggul compared to placebo [Szapary PO, Wolfe ML, Bloedon LT, et al. Guggulipid for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2003;290(6):765–72]. No significant changes in total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or triglycerides were measured. These results are consistent with two prior published case reports [Das Gupta R. Gugulipid: pro-lipaemic effect. J Assoc Physicians India 1990;38(12):346]. Conclusion: The effects of guggulipid in patients with high cholesterol are not clear, with some studies finding cholesterol-lowering effects, and other research suggesting no benefits. At this time, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of guggul for any medical condition. Guggul may cause stomach discomfort or allergic rash as well as other serious side effects and interactions. It should be avoided in pregnant or breast-feeding women and in children. Safety of use beyond 4 months has not been well studied. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Context: Herbal extracts from Commiphora mukul (guggul) have been widely used in Asia as cholesterol-lowering agents, and their popularity is increasing in the United States. Recently, guggulsterones, the purported bioactive compounds of guggul, have been shown to be potent antagonists of 2 nuclear hormone receptors involved in cholesterol metabolism, establishing a plausible mechanism of action for the hypolipidemic effects of these extracts. However, there are currently no published safety or efficacy data on the use of guggul extracts in Western populations. Objective: To study the short-term safety and efficacy of 2 doses of a standardized guggul extract (guggulipid, containing 2.5% guggulsterones) in healthy adults with hyperlipidemia eating a typical Western diet. Design: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial using a parallel design, conducted March 2000-August 2001. Participants and Setting: A total of 103 ambulatory, community-dwelling, healthy adults with hypercholesterolemia in the Philadelphia, Pa, metropolitan area. Intervention: Oral, 3 times daily doses of standard-dose guggulipid (1000 mg), high-dose guggulipid (2000 mg), or matching placebo. Main Outcome Measures: Percentage change in levels of directly measured low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) after 8 weeks of therapy. Secondary outcome measures included levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides, and directly measured very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C), as well as adverse events reports and laboratory safety measures including electrolyte levels and hepatic and renal function. Results: Compared with participants randomized to placebo (n = 36), in whom levels of LDL-C decreased by 5%, both standard-dose guggulipid (n = 33) and high-dose guggulipid (n = 34) raised levels of LDL-C by 4% (P = .01 vs placebo) and 5% (P = .006 vs placebo), respectively, at 8 weeks, for a net positive change of 9% to 10%. There were no... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products have a unique place in the healthcare industry. The genus Commiphora emerged as a potential medicinal source with huge benefits as evidenced through its use in various traditional and modern systems of medicine. Therefore, we aimed to prepare a concise review on the pharmacological activities and the indigenous uses of various plant species belonging to the genus Commiphora along with the structural information of various active botanical ingredients present in these plants based on the published literatures and scientific reports. To collect the published literatures on Commiphora in various journals; to study and classify the available information on the pharmacological uses and chemical constituents; and to present the gathered information as a precise review to serve as a potential reference for future research. Pharmacological and phytochemical data on Commiphora plant species were collected from various journals, books, reference materials, websites including scientific databases, etc. for compilation. This review article describes the various pharmacological properties of plants of Commiphora species viz., anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory, anti-atherogenic, antibacterial, anti-coagulant, antidicrocoeliasis, anti-epileptic, anti-fascioliasis, anti-fungal, anti-heterophyidiasis, anti-hypercholesterolemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hypothyroidism, anti-obesity, anti-osteoarthritic, antiosteoclastogenesis, anti-oxidant, anti-parasitic, anti-pyretic, anti-schistosomiasis, anti-septic, antithrombotic, anti-ulcer, cardioprotective, COX enzyme inhibitory, cytotoxic /anti-carcinogenic/anticancer, DNA cleavage, hypotensive, inhibits lipid peroxidation, inhibits NO and NO synthase production, insecticidal, local anesthetic, molluscicidal, smooth muscle relaxant, and tick repellent activities along with toxicity studies. Furthermore, the review also included various secondary metabolites isolated from various species of Commiphora genus along with their chemical structures serving as a ready resource for researchers. We conclude that the plant species belonging to the genus Commiphora possesses abundant pharmacological properties with a huge treasure of diverse secondary metabolites within themselves. This review indicates the necessity of further in-depth research, pre-clinical, and clinical studies with Commiphora genus, which may help to detect the unidentified potential of the Commiphora plant species., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)