Derived from the resin of Boswellia trees, boswellic acids in boswellia extracts may help manage inflammation and provide benefits for joint discomfort, respiratory issues, digestive health, and skin conditions.
The Boswellia genus of flowering trees contains four primary species, including B. frereana, B. papyrifera, B. sacra and B. serrata. They are native to the tropical regions of Asia and Africa, and their greatest distribution is in Africa and India.
Frankincense is an extract of the resin from Boswellia, which is valued for its strong fragrance when burned. B. sacra was the sole source of frankincense in Biblical times, although B. frereana is also used to make frankincense today. The grade of frankincense depends primarily on the time of year in which the resin is harvested, although the individual pieces of resin are still sorted by hand.
Boswellia oil has a long history of use in folk medicine, especially the Ayurvedic system used in India. Common uses of Boswellia in this system include topical support for joint discomfort, and heart health, and help support the immune system due to occasional seasonal conditions. Boswellia is also taken orally for general health support.
The most significant pharmacological effect in Boswellia resin comes from Boswellic acid, which inhibits the production of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX). Boswellic acid’s primary biochemical action is to switch off cytokines and other mediators that initiate 5-LOX production to help support healthy inflammation management.
B. serrata is the primary source of Boswellia oil used for health purposes. This source of Boswellia is useful for managing conditions that affect the skin, joints, breathing, and digestion.
Boswellia may also be useful in managing digestive health and function.
At least one study has researched the effect of Boswellia on the knee joint. The subjects in this study reported a reduction of discomfort and improvement in knee flexion.
You may benefit from oral supplements of Boswellia if your lungs, sinuses, and breathing patterns need some support due to occasional seasonal conditions.
Boswellia is most often used to support healthy inflammation management within the skin and connective tissue.
Conditions characterized by itchy, red skin are the most common signs that Boswellia may benefit you. These conditions primarily include discomfort in the joints, especially the knees. Poor circulation to the joints may also cause other conditions such as poor circulation that may indicate a need for Boswellia. Additional signs that Boswellia may help you include a compromised immune system.
Boswellia oil, frankincense
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