Boswellia Herb Extract Uses, Doses and Adverse Effects

Boswellia Serrata is a plant native to India, Pakistan, and the Punjab region. The people of India have used Boswellia herb extracts, also known as Indian Frankincense, for medicinal and cosmetic purposes throughout history.

Because there are many species of the Boswellia tree, there are other useful extracts that may be referred to as Boswellia or contain the name. Boswellia formulations go by many names including Boswellia Serata, Boswellic Acid, AKBA, Aflapin, 5-Loxin, and more.

Boswellia is generally considered safe and most widely known for its use in the treatment of inflammatory disease. Boswellia supplements are widely available for consumer purchase and use.

Boswellia Serrata

Anti-Inflammatory

Anti- Inflammatory

Joints

Anti- Aging

How It Works:

• Effective natural anti-inflammatory
• Improves blood flow to the joint for better functionality
• Exhibits pain-relieving properties

Dosage:

Between 200 - 400 mg per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Boswellia Herb Uses

Boswellia herb extracts have been used throughout history for a variety of conditions including dysentery, boils, ringworm, diarrhea, fever, blood diseases, skin diseases, cardiovascular diseases, bronchitis, cough, sore throat, vaginal discharge, hemorrhoids, hair loss, irregular periods, asthma, and for stimulation of the liver.

Many of these historical uses are based on traditional medicine systems. Most of the traditional uses of Boswellia have not been thoroughly studied in modern research trials.

Today, boswellia is primarily used as an anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-atherscolerotic, hepatoprotective, and analgesic herb [2].

Boswellic acids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory mechanisms, which may be useful for inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis [3]. The Natural Medicines Database rates Boswellia supplements as Possibly Effective for Osteoarthritis and Ulcerative Colitis.

However, the medicinal use of Boswellia Serrata has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of any specific medical condition.

Boswellia Herb Benefits

According to research studies, extracts from the Boswellia herb may be effective in decreasing pain and increasing mobility among patients suffering from osteoarthritis. This claim is based on the results of four independent clinical research trials.

In the first two studies, patients reported improvement in pain and functionality within just seven days of initial treatment. These patients were taking 100 to 250 mg of the extract 5-Loxin [4].

An additional clinical trial done on the Indian Frankincense extract Aflapin found that significant improvement was evident in patients who were treated for a 90-day period [5].

A final study produced similar findings, indicating that Boswellia herb is possibly effective in treating the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, at least in combination with other prescribed medications.

In addition, two separate clinical trials have produced evidence that boswellia herb extracts or Indian frankincense may be beneficial for patients suffering from ulcerative colitis.

7% more patients went into remission following boswellia herb treatment than those who were treated with sulfasalazine [6].

Multiple other studies have been conducted to determine the effectiveness of boswellia herb extracts for a number of other conditions. However,because the studies were either inconclusive or not robust enough, the evidence is considered insufficient in these cases.

Some other uses that are supported by preliminary evidence and small clinical trials include:

• Reducing the symptoms of Crohn’s disease; studies show conflicting data
• Reducing fine lines, facial roughness, and photo damage; no placebo-controlled study was performed
• Improving asthma symptoms and reducing frequency of attacks; preliminary evidence only
• Reducing the frequency of cluster headaches; anecdotal evidence only
• Reducing pain, stiffness, and strength in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis; research is conflicting
• Reducing the volume of brain tumors; preliminary evidence based on one early clinical trial
• Increasing the rate of remission among patients suffering from collagenous colitis

Recommended Dosages

Dosages of Boswellia herbal extracts depends on the patient’s age and the condition being treated. To determine the appropriate dosage for your needs, consult with your primary care or complementary medicine doctor for guidance.

In research studies, patients with asthma, osteoarthritis, or colitis have been given dosages of 300mg three times per day. For Crohn’s disease, dosages of 1,200mg three times per day have been used.

In one study, patients with brain tumors were given up to 4,200mg a daily divided into three daily doses.

Children should not use boswellia without approval from a healthcare provider as it may mask asthma symptoms and delay diagnosis and treatment. If boswellia is approved for a child’s use, the dosage will depend on weight. [7]

When calculating dosages, it is important to note that the boswellic acid content can dramatically affect the dosage calculation.

Oral boswellia herb capsules should be taken with a full glass of water and can be taken with or without food. Topical boswellia should be applied to the face, in circular upward motions, once per day.

Because boswellia interacts with certain medications, all patients should consult a healthcare provider before making a definitive decision about the use of boswellia in the management and treatment of disease.

Risk of Boswellia Side Effects

Taking the Boswellia serrata herb is rated as Likely Safe by the Natural Medicines Database, when it is used orally at appropriate dosages. This herb has been used safely in clinical trials that have lasted as long as six months.

Using Boswellia supplements may be accompanied by risk of some benign and serious side effects, including:

• Allergies – In very rare cases, boswellia can result in a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis; patients who notice swelling in the face or lips, hives, or difficulty breathing should seek medical attention promptly.
• Dermatitis – some clinical trials have indicated that certain patients may develop dermatitis following application of boswellia serrata cream
• Drug Interactions – Boswellia serrata may interact with Singular, tea tree oil, anticancer drugs, chondroitin, glucosamine, antibiotics, sedatives, garlic, and red yeast. It can also reduce the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory medications.
• GI Symptoms – In few cases, boswellia has caused nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn.
• Birth Defects – Boswellia should not be used during pregnancy; it can result in spontaneous abortion or birth-related problems [8]

Before using Boswellia as an herbal remedy, consult with a doctor to find out if this supplement is appropriate for you.

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