Boswellia is a fragrant resin from the tree Boswellia serrata that is touted for its anti-inflammatory benefits. It is an established and well-known plant in Ayurvedic medicine that is often commonly called "Indian Frankincense." This herb contains boswellic acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and encourages healthy cell growth.
Traditional Medical Uses For Boswellia
In Ayurvedic medicine, boswellia has been traditionally used for infections such as dysentery, ringworm, boils and respiratory infections. It was used both internally and topically (applied to the skin).
Key Health Benefits of Boswellia
Anti-inflammatory and Alternative to NSAIDs
There are a number of animal studies and some newly started clinical trials that are supporting the use of Boswellia extract in a number of inflammatory conditions such as: inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), and asthma. This supplement is touted as a great alternative to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as: aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen. It is strongly effective in a number of conditions, while at the same time it does not cause the same gastrointestinal side effects, such as ulceration of the lining of the digestive tract.
Encourages Healthy Cell Growth
This extract has been studied for its ability to promote healthy cell growth. Some examples from the research show it's particularly good at helping healthy cells develop in the breasts, pancreas, and the brain. In each case Boswellia has been found to induce apoptosis (programmed "cell suicide") in the targeted abnormal cells. Further research is required, but the initial results look promising.
Selecting Quality Boswellia Supplements
Most boswellia supplements are made as encapsulated dried gum. Better quality supplements are standardized to the amount of boswellic acids (65% is recommended). This is an assurance that the product contains boswellia and has some active properties. Tinctures of the gum and resin are more difficult to find.
