
What are the side effects of Boswellia?
- osteoarthritis (OA)
- rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- asthma
- inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Is Boswellia safe to take?
The herb has not been shown to cause ulcers, respiratory, cardiovascular, or psychological side effects. Boswellia is generally safe when used as directed, without exceeding recommended dosage. If boswellia is used with supplements that possess similar properties, it increases its beneficial effects as well as side effects.
What is the recommended dosage of Boswellia?
Dosages vary, however, depending on the condition being treated and the standardization of the product. Take 600 to 900 milligrams of boswellia standardized to contain 60 to 65 percent boswellic acid, the herb's active ingredient, as a general dosage. Three to four capsules of boswellia extract typically contain the recommended amount of acids.
What foods contain Boswellia?
Boswellia Complex is an extract supplement containing boswellia, celery seed, ginger and turmeric. It was designed by MediHerb to support kidney function, healthy joints and circulation. However, no scientific studies have yet been performed to support this claim.

What does Boswellia do for the body?
Boswellia, or Indian frankincense, is a resin herbal extract from the boswellia tree, which natural medicine practices have used for centuries. Its anti-inflammatory effects mean that it may help with inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma.
Who should not take Boswellia?
It's important to talk to your healthcare provider before using Boswellia. 9 If you have gastritis or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you may not be able to take the herb. If you're taking a blood thinner or have a condition that affects blood clotting, talk to your healthcare provider before taking Boswellia.
What are the negative side effects of Boswellia?
Boswellia serrata extract has been used safely in doses up to 1000 mg daily for up to 6 months. It usually doesn't cause major side effects. But some people have reported stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, heartburn, and itching.
Can Boswellia cause liver damage?
More recently, Boswellia serrata extracts have been marketed as helpful in arthritis, colitis and asthma. Extracts of Boswellia serrata have not been linked to serum aminotransferase elevations during treatment or to instances of clinically apparent acute liver injury.
Can Boswellia raise blood pressure?
Also, Boswellia species has antithrombotic and anticoagulant properties that regulate blood pressure. The anti-oxidant properties of Boswellia species modulate the blood lipid profile via reducing TNF-α, IL-1β levels, and increasing the adiponectin level.
How long does it take for Boswellia to start working?
A clinical trial conducted by Raychaudhuri and co-workers in India has shown that the extract of the plant, Boswellia serrata, can reduce pain and considerably improve knee-joint functions, in some cases providing relief even within seven days.
Does Boswellia rebuild cartilage?
Because boswellia is an effective anti-inflammatory, it can be an effective painkiller and may prevent the loss of cartilage. Some studies have found that it may even be useful in treating certain cancers, such as leukemia and breast cancer.
Is Boswellia safe for the liver?
Likely Boswellia serrata, through reduction of NO generation, can protect the liver function. This research showed that Boswellia serrata supplementation has beneficial effect in augmentation of HDL and reduction of total cholesterol and LDL levels among type2 diabetic patients.
Does Boswellia affect the kidneys?
A recent study demonstrated that a combination of boswellia (frankincense) and curcumin lowered signs of inflammation in chronic kidney disease. This study is especially important since it was conducted in patients.
What is the best vitamin for stiff joints?
Vitamin D is important for keeping bones strong and preventing injuries from falls. Research shows that people with low levels of vitamin D may have more joint pain.
Does Boswellia interact with any medications?
Boswellia has no known severe interactions with other drugs. Boswellia has no known serious interactions with other drugs.
Does Boswellia lower cholesterol?
This research showed that Boswellia serrata supplementation has beneficial effect in augmentation of HDL and reduction of total cholesterol and LDL levels among type2 diabetic patients.
What Is Boswellia Used for?
Possible Side Effects
- Boswellia may be safe when taken by mouth for up to six months. It could be safe when applied to the skin for up to five weeks. But follow your healthcare provider's instructions. Boswellia may cause side effects, including: 1. Nausea 2. Diarrhea 3. Bloating 4. Acid reflux 5. Heartburn 6. Allergic reactions6 It may increase blood flow in the uterus. Pregnant and nursing women shoul…
Dose
- There is no standard recommended dose of Boswellia. Different doses have been used in studies exploring the health benefits. In arthritis studies,100 mg to 1000 mg of Boswellia extracts or 300 mg to 600 mg of Boswellia with other herbs were used daily. A cream containing 2% Boswellia was used on skin during radiation treatment. The cream was applied twice daily during therapy.11
What to Look For
- Boswellia can be found in many health food stores. It's sold as a supplement and blended with curcumin (turmeric) and other herbs. The quality of Boswellia supplements is an issue. Dietary supplements are not regulated in the U.S. For that reason, what's in some products may differ from what the label says. For example, some Boswellia products don't contain the six acids con…
Summary
- Boswellia is the extract of the Boswellia serratatree. It's been used in traditional health systems for centuries. The supplement may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. But more research is needed to confirm these benefits. There's some evidence to suggest Boswellia may help with arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel conditions. L...
Significance
Uses
- Scientifically known as Boswellia serrata, this is not only the name of the herb but also of the large tree native to India and parts of Pakistan. This tree is most famous for producing Indian frankincense, a common name of the herb, which may also be known as salai or shallaki. The entire Boswellia genus is referred to as frankincense, but this particular species has been praise…
Benefits
- Some of the top benefits of Boswellia serrata include its ability to soothe symptoms of arthritis, lower inflammation, prevent autoimmune disease, reduce the progression of cancer, speed wound healing, boost muscle strength, prevent headaches, and support skin health. Perhaps the most well-known health benefits of Boswellia serrata is the impact it...
Treatment
- In Ayurvedic tradition, Boswellia has been used to heal both internal and external wounds. Topical applications are able to stimulate circulation to the wound and speed healing, while also protecting the wound from infection. When supplements or beverages with Boswellia serrata are consumed, it can help accelerate the recovery time for extended injuries or illness.
Impact
- A great deal of attention has been given to Boswellia Serratas impact on cancer in the body. According to researchers at the Cook College, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, USA, this herb does not cause apoptosis (automated cell death), unlike many anti-cancer compounds and natural remedies. Instead, it prohibits the proliferation and spread of cancerou…
Effects
- The pain-killing abilities of Boswellia serrata are closely tied to its legendary anti-inflammatory properties. Along with inhibiting the release of inflammatory enzymes and compounds in the body, it also impacts the triggering of pain receptors in those joints and muscles. This can improve the quality of life and keep you feeling young and healthy as you age when consumed i…
Side effects
- Despite the remarkable health benefits of this herb, Boswellia serrata is associated with various concerning side effects, such as gastrointestinal problems, skin rash, and potential liver damage. However, most of these side effects only appear when Boswellia serrata is used in high concentrations; moderate use is rarely associated with negative side effects.