Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is a tree resin commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The resin is extracted from the Boswellia serrata tree, which is native to India, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. Boswellia has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, and recent research has shown that it may have numerous health benefits. In this article, we will explore the benefits of boswellia and the science behind them.



Anti-inflammatory properties

One of the most well-known benefits of boswellia is its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can lead to a variety of health problems, including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Boswellia contains compounds called boswellic acids, which have been shown to inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules in the body. These compounds specifically target the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, which is involved in the production of leukotrienes, a type of inflammatory molecule. By inhibiting the production of leukotrienes, boswellic acids can help reduce inflammation in the body.


Pain relief

Boswellia has also been shown to have analgesic properties, meaning it can help relieve pain. Boswellic acids have been shown to block the production of inflammatory molecules that are associated with pain, such as prostaglandins. Additionally, boswellic acids may help reduce nerve sensitivity, which can further reduce pain.


Boswellia has been studied for its effectiveness in treating a variety of painful conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic low back pain. In a study of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, those who took a boswellia extract had significant improvements in pain and mobility compared to those who took a placebo. Another study found that boswellia was as effective as a commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory drug in reducing pain and improving function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.


Asthma and respiratory conditions

Boswellia has also been studied for its potential benefits in treating asthma and other respiratory conditions. Inflammation in the lungs can cause airway constriction and difficulty breathing, which are common symptoms of asthma. Boswellic acids have been shown to inhibit the production of leukotrienes, which are known to contribute to inflammation in the lungs. By reducing inflammation, boswellia may help improve lung function and reduce asthma symptoms.


One study found that a combination of boswellia and curcumin (another natural anti-inflammatory compound) was effective in improving lung function and reducing asthma symptoms in patients with mild to moderate asthma. Another study found that boswellia was effective in reducing symptoms of chronic bronchitis, another respiratory condition that is characterized by inflammation in the lungs.


Digestive health

Boswellia may also have benefits for digestive health. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of conditions that are characterized by inflammation in the digestive tract, and boswellia has been studied for its potential to treat these conditions. One study found that boswellia was effective in reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis, a type of IBD that affects the colon. Another study found that boswellia was as effective as a commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory drug in reducing symptoms of Crohn's disease, another type of IBD.


Boswellia may also have benefits for other digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common condition that is characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements. Boswellia has been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, which may help