Guggal Plant — Commiphora wightii: Medicinal Uses, Distribution & Conservation Status

UPSC Relevance: Environment & Ecology | Agriculture | Indian Medicinal Plants

Key Facts

  • Scientific name: Commiphora wightii

  • Family: Burseraceae.

  • Commonly known as Guggal/Guggul/Gugal.

  • A thorny, aromatic shrub/small tree.

  • Native to arid and semi-arid regions of western India.

  • Important medicinal plant used in Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Sowa Rigpa.

  • Produces an aromatic resin called guggul gum.

  • Major Indian distribution includes Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka.

  • Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List.

Why is it threatened?

  • Excessive extraction of oleo-gum-resin.

  • Poor natural regeneration.

  • Habitat degradation.

  • Overharvesting.

Prelims Pointers

  • Guggal → Commiphora wightii.

  • Family → Burseraceae.

  • IUCN → Critically Endangered.

  • Associated with traditional medicine.

  • Western India → important natural distribution.