Boswellia serrata (frankincense)

Boswellia serrata, commonly known as frankincense, is a branching tree found in India, northern Africa and the Middle East. Beneath the Boswellia bark is a gummy resin. This resin contains substances that can decrease pro-inflammatory chemicals in various parts of the body.* Extracts of Boswellia resin are used in integrative medicine to support muscle, joint and tendon health, and for healthy digestion and respiration.*

Should I consider taking a Boswellia dietary supplement?

Boswellia appears to offer several possible health benefits.* It can provide relieve from occasional aches and soreness in muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons, as demonstrated in a study involving healthy rugby players experiencing knee stress.* Evidence also suggests that Boswellia promotes a healthy gastrointestinal tract and respiratory tract.*

What are the dietary sources of Boswellia?

There are no dietary sources of Boswellia. The extract is not used in cooking because of its pungent, soap-like taste. Boswellia is taken as a dietary supplement.

How can a Boswellia dietary supplement affect my health?

Supplemental Boswellia can support your health in several ways:

• Helps maintain a healthy balance of pro-inflammatory chemicals in muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments, as well as the digestive tract and respiratory tract*
• Provides relief from occasional aches and soreness*
• Supports easy breathing*
• Helps maintain a healthy balance of pro-inflammatory chemicals in the intestinal lining*

How much supplemental Boswellia should I take?

How much Boswellia to take depends on its form. Boswellia is sometimes combined with phospholipids in what is called a phytosome, a combination that is designed to increase its absorption.* Studies using a phytosome preparation (Casperome®) demonstrate effectiveness at amounts of 250 to 500 milligrams (mg) daily. On the other hand, for Boswellia that is not part of a phytosome formula the recommended amount can vary widely, depending on the concentration of the active ingredients. Follow the suggested use on the product label.

Are there side effects from taking a Boswellia dietary supplement?

The most common side effects observed are nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Burping up a slightly acidic, soapy taste has also been reported. The safety of taking a Boswellia dietary supplement during pregnancy has not been established.

Is it safe to take a Boswellia dietary supplement with other medications?

Boswellia supplements can interact with various medications by:

• Increasing the effects of diabetes medications, which can increase the risk of low blood sugar
• Possibly increasing the effect of warfarin (Coumadin), a blood-thinning medication

If you are considering taking a Boswellia dietary supplement, then check with your health care professional first, especially if you are pregnant or have a health condition.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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March 16, 2019 See more In-depth