Boswellia (Boswellia serrata)

    Boswellia, a plant that has been praised for its medicinal properties for thousands of years, is a true gem of the botanical world. This humble plant, also known as Indian frankincense, has a rich history and a myriad of uses that extend far beyond its aromatic resin.

    Boswellia is a genus of trees native to the Arabian Peninsula and parts of North Africa, including Somalia, Ethiopia, and Sudan. Boswellia trees thrive in harsh conditions, growing in rocky, infertile soil, and even solid rock. The resilience of these trees is truly remarkable, and it is believed that the harsher the conditions, the more potent the resin.

    The Boswellia tree, particularly Boswellia serrata, is famous for its fragrant resin, which has been used for centuries in various cultural and religious practices. The resin, often called frankincense, is harvested by making incisions in the bark of the tree and allowing the resin to harden before being collected.

 

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY BENEFITS

    The resin from the Boswellia tree is not only known for its fragrance, but it also contains boswellic acids, which have been shown to have strong anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. They inhibit the production of leukotrienes, which are molecules that can cause inflammation in the body.

    Studies have shown that Boswellia can reduce inflammation and pain in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, two common types of arthritis characterized by chronic inflammation.

    Boswellia has also shown promise in treating inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. One study found that taking Boswellia extract improved symptoms in people with Crohn’s disease as effectively as the prescription medication mesalamine.

    Additionally, Boswellia may also help reduce symptoms of asthma, a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. Boswellia’s anti-inflammatory action can reduce inflammation in the lungs and prevent the production of leukotrienes, which cause the bronchial muscles to contract. Boswellia is truly a breath of fresh air for those suffering from asthma.

 

TAKING BOSWELLIA

    Boswellia is usually taken as a capsule, tablet, or its bark decoction by mouth. It is also available as a resin or cream. Currently, it is unclear what the optimal dosage is to balance safety and efficacy. If using the resin itself, doses can increase up to 1,800 mg taken three times daily (5,400 mg daily), but are generally in the range of 800-1,200 mg taken three times daily to total a daily dose of 2,400-3,600 mg. It is best to start at the lower end of the dosage range for 2 to 3 months and then increase the dose. If greater benefits are not seen with the higher dose, continue supplementing with the lower dose.

    When purchasing, look for a supplement that does not contain additives or fillers and is highly bioavailable. To ensure good quality, check the label for third-party certification.

 

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS

    Despite its many benefits, Boswellia is not without its side effects. Some people may experience stomach pain, acid reflux, rashes, nausea, and diarrhea. It is also not recommended for pregnant women, as it can stimulate blood flow to the uterus and pelvis. It can speed up menstrual flow and may induce miscarriage in pregnant women.

    Boswellia extract may also interact with medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

    In conclusion, Boswellia, with its rich history, diverse uses and impressive health benefits, is truly a remarkable plant.

    Its anti-inflammatory properties, in particular, make it a valuable natural remedy. So whether you’re seeking relief from arthritis pain, looking to soothe your inflamed intestines or simply want to enjoy the aromatic scent of frankincense, Boswellia has something to offer.