What is Boswellia Serrata?
Health Benefits of Boswellia
Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense is an herbal extract from the bark of the Boswellia serrata tree that is native to India, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Boswellia has been used for centuries to treat various chronic inflammatory disorders.
Boswellia is rich in boswellic acids that have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Boswellia has been traditionally used to promote wound healing.
Boswellia may help treat Parkinson’s disease. Studies have shown that Boswellia serrata extract acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that helps protect the neurons in the brain and also improve motor function in animals. More research is needed in humans.
Boswellia may also treat rheumatoid arthritis. Boswellia may reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that people with rheumatoid arthritis who consumed Boswellia supplements reduced their joint pain, swelling and stiffness and were able to reduce their non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID).
Boswellia may also treat inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Chron’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Studies have shown Boswellia extract may be effective in treating both Chron’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Boswellia may also promote skin health. Boswellia has been used in ayurvedic medicine to treat skin inflammation and irritation. Boswellia may also improve age spots, wrinkles, blemishes and boost the elasticity of the skin.
Boswellia may also help treat asthma. Studies have shown that participants with asthma who consumed Boswellia had their asthma symptoms decreased.
Boswellia may also help reduce stress and anxiety. Boswellia may also balance your hormones and optimize your metabolism. Boswellia may also promote kidney health.
Boswellia may have some side effects, including constipation, nausea, acid reflux, diarrhea and skin rashes. Boswellia may also interact with certain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) just to name a few.
Boswellia may also stimulate blood flow in the uterus and pelvis. It can accelerate menstrual flow and may induce a miscarriage if you are pregnant.
As always consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23194870/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7603128/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boswellia_serrata
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3309643/
https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/boswellia