Boswellia Serrata Extract

Other Names - Boswellia, Indian frankincense, Indian oli-banum, Salai guggul, Sallaki,

Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is an herbal extract taken from the Boswellia serrata tree.

Resin made from boswellia extract has been used for centuries in Asian and African folk medicine. It’s believed to treat chronic inflammatory illnesses as well as a number of other health conditions. Boswellia is available as a resin, pill, or cream.

In herbal medicine, boswellia is typically used to manage the following:

o   Asthma

o   Collagenous arthritis

o   Crohn's disease

o   Menstrual cramps

o   Osteoarthritis

o   Rheumatoid arthritis

o   Ulcerative colitis

Because boswellia is an effective anti-inflammatory, it can be an effective painkiller and may prevent the loss of cartilage. Some studies have found that it may even be useful in treating certain cancers, such as leukemia and breast cancer.

Four acids in boswellia resin contribute to the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties. These acids inhibit 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO), an enzyme that produces leukotriene. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is thought to be the most powerful of the four boswellic acids. However, other research suggests other boswellic acids are responsible for the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties.

Boswellia products are generally rated on their concentration of boswellic acids.