Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is an herbal extract taken from Boswellia serrata, a tree native to India and parts of Pakistan. The extract, which takes the form of a gummy resin, has been been used for thousands of years in Asian and African folk medicine.

Originally thought to be a mythical substance, boswellia was widely used in ancient times as an incense. It was also used to help heal several conditions, such as diarrhea, ringworm and pulmonary diseases.

In modern times, research has shown that the active components of boswellia have several health benefits. These include preventing the loss of cartilage and being an effective pain killer. Boswellia’s biggest health benefit, however, is its ability to reduce inflammation. The herbal extract’s anti-inflammatory properties are said to be responsible for its ability to treat a number of conditions.

Health benefits of Boswellia

Boswellia is rich in active compounds called boswellic acids. These compounds are believed to be the ones responsible for boswellia’s health benefits, as well as its anti-inflammatory properties. Reports also suggest that boswellic acids can kill cancer cells.

In addition, boswellia has high levels of guggulsterone. Studies show that this family of plant compounds may be useful in treating certain skin conditions.

Thanks to these phytonutrients, boswellia can provide a number of health benefits. These include:

Helps address pain caused by osteoarthritis

Boswellia’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective natural painkiller for those suffering from osteoarthritis. Research also suggests that boswellia can restore physical function to the affected joints.

Further studies have echoed these findings, proving that boswellia can help improve physical function among osteoarthritis patients.

Helps fight certain cancers

The boswellic acids in boswellia could inhibit cancer growth. These active compounds have been shown to prevent certain enzymes from negatively affecting DNA.

Studies have also found that boswellia may limit the spread of malignant leukemia and brain tumor cells, as well as fight advanced breast cancer. Meanwhile, other studies suggest that boswellic acids may effectively suppress the invasion of pancreatic cancer cells.

Helps treat inflammatory bowel diseases

The anti-inflammatory properties of boswellia mean that it may also be used as a treatment for inflammatory bowel diseases.

One study found that boswellia extract is just as effective at treating Crohn’s disease as standard prescription medications. Meanwhile, other studies have found that boswellia may be used as a treatment for ulcerative colitis.

May help treat asthma

The anti-inflammatory activities of boswellic acids make boswellia an effective treatment for asthma.

Studies show that boswellia can suppress inflammation in the airways and inhibit the secretion of cytokines – signaling proteins that trigger inflammation. Because of these actions, researchers believe that boswellia could be a helpful complementary treatment for asthma, though they concede that more studies are needed to verify this.

May help treat Parkinson’s disease

Boswellia may also be a helpful for treating Parkinson’s disease.

A study highlighted boswellia’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help fight Parkinson’s. Researchers noted that these properties allowed boswellia to protect neurons in the brain from damage and improve motor functions in animal models.

More studies involving humans, however, are needed to further understand if Boswellia can truly help fight Parkinson’s.

Taking Boswellia

If you’re interested in taking Boswellia, note that it comes in different forms and that the quality can vary widely.

The resin is most commonly sold in capsule form. That said, it is possible to buy raw boswellia resin, which has a hard texture similar to sap. You may also occasionally find boswellia’s active components sold separately in capsule or tablet form.

Experts recommend taking about 300 to 400 milligrams of boswellia three times a day to effectively deliver boswellic acids to the body. The Arthritis Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of arthritis patients in America, recommends looking for capsules that contain at least 60 percent boswellic acid.

Another option for those looking to try Boswellia is Indian frankincense essential oil. Diluting this essential oil with a carrier oil and applying it directly on your skin is a great way of allowing the herb’s active components to enter your body.

Boswellia extract is one of the most potent natural medicines on the planet. This ancient medicine offers multiple health benefits, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. If you’re looking to try Boswellia, first consult your healthcare provider so you’ll know how best to use this medicine and maximize its benefits.