Boswellia

🌿 Boswellia (Boswellia serrata)

Also known as Indian Frankincense

📖 Overview

Boswellia serrata is a resin-producing tree native to India, highly valued for its aromatic gum resin. Known as Shallakiin Ayurveda, it has been used for centuries to support joint comfort, respiratory health, and healthy circulation.

📜 Traditional Use in Ayurveda

Boswellia is categorized in Ayurveda as Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) and Vedanasthapana (pain-relieving). It is traditionally used to soothe joints, support respiratory function, and promote comfort in movement, especially in Vata imbalances related to dryness and stiffness.

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Gugguladi Varga, Verse 51):
“Shallaki tikta katu snigdha ushna vatahara grahi shothahara”
“Shallaki is bitter, pungent, unctuous, heating, pacifies Vata, and is known to reduce swelling.”

Shallaki is often used in formulations alongside Guggulu and other herbs for musculoskeletal and joint support.

🍵 Suggested Use

Boswellia is used in the form of:

• Capsules/tablets: 300–500 mg extract standardized to boswellic acids

• Resin extract: Traditionally purified and used in Ayurvedic formulations

• Powder (Churna): 1–3 grams daily, mixed with warm water or ghee

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern research has confirmed Boswellia's benefits for joint health and inflammation:

• Joint Comfort: A clinical study showed Boswellia extract significantly reduced joint pain and improved mobility in osteoarthritis patients [1]

• Inflammation Modulation: Boswellic acids inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme involved in inflammation pathways [2]

• Gut & Respiratory Support: Research suggests Boswellia may help maintain intestinal and lung health through anti-inflammatory action [3]

References:

1. Kimmatkar, N., et al. (2003). Efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract in treatment of osteoarthritis.Phytomedicine, 10(1), 3–7.

2. Ammon, H. P. T. (2010). Modulation of the immune system by Boswellia serrata extracts. Planta Medica, 76(11), 1109–1116.

3. Gupta, I., et al. (2001). Effects of Boswellia serrata gum resin in patients with bronchial asthma: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Eur J Med Res, 3(11), 511–514.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• Generally well tolerated; mild digestive upset may occur in sensitive individuals

• Not recommended during pregnancy

• May interact with certain anti-inflammatory or anticoagulant medications—consult your healthcare provider

🛍️ Shop by Interest 

• Joints

• Vitality

• Immune System

• Products for Vata

"Products Featuring Boswellia"

"These products feature Boswellia, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."