Herbal Supplements For A Healthier Life

Botanical & Identity

Botanical Name

Boswellia serrata

Common Names

Boswellia, Indian Frankincense, Shallaki

Plant Family

Burseraceae

Part Used

Gum resin

Taste Profile

Bitter, slightly pungent

Energetics

Cooling, drying, anti-inflammatory
Boswelia

Summary & Classification

Short Summary

Boswellia is a powerful anti-inflammatory resin traditionally used for arthritis, joint pain, and inflammatory bowel conditions. Its active compounds, boswellic acids, inhibit 5-LOX enzyme activity, making it a natural alternative to NSAIDs without the same gastrointestinal side effects.

Herb Actions

anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antirheumatic, immune-Modulating

Herbal Category

joint & pain Support, inflammatory Conditions

Medicine System

ayurveda, western

Active Ingredients

Boswellic acids (AKBA – acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid, KBA),
,
Essential Oils
,
Terpenoids
.

Chemistry & Effectiveness

Active Ingredients

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) enzyme, reducing leukotriene production — key in inflammatory and allergic responses. Also stabilises immune overactivity and helps protect cartilage from degradation.

Modern Applications

Used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), asthma, psoriasis, and chronic inflammatory pain syndromes. Often combined with turmeric or MSM in joint formulas.

Traditional Uses & Preparation

Traditional Uses

Used in Ayurvedic medicine for joint pain, respiratory issues, and wound healing. Burned as incense for spiritual purification.

Preparation & Usage

Supplied in capsules or tablets (standardised to ≥65% boswellic acids). Also used in tinctures and external creams.

Recommended Dosage

300–500 mg extract (standardised), 2–3x/day; Tincture: 2–4 ml/day; Topical: applied as needed. Effects typically appear within 7–14 days of continuous use.

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

Use with caution in those with autoimmune diseases unless under supervision.

Drug Interactions

May enhance effects of NSAIDs or immune-modulating drugs. Use caution with anticoagulants.

Pregnancy & Lactation

not recommended

Side Effects

Mild GI upset (nausea, diarrhoea) in some individuals. Rare: skin rash or headache. Generally well tolerated.

Scientific & Source Info

Scientific References

– Sharma, M.L. et al. (1989). Boswellic acids: A new class of anti-inflammatory agents. – Sengupta, K. et al. (2008). A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of Boswellia serrata extract in osteoarthritis.

Sourcing Notes

Harvested from the bark of Boswellia serrata trees in India. Resin is sun-dried and processed into extract. Look for high-AKBA content in therapeutic products.

Product Linkage

Used In Products

Headache and Migraine capsules

Headache, Pain & Migraine Support 120’s

R440.00