Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata is a tree belonging to the Burseraceae family and that grows in the hilly regions of India and China. From the trunk and from the branches of the boswellia a gum resin is extracted, known and used for centuries in Ayurvedica for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties with beneficial effects especially on the joints, bones and muscles. Therefore the remedy lends itself to be applied to treat inflammatory rheumatism, arthrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis and low back pain by reducing pain and swelling. Moreover, the plant is also helpful to improve mobility (Kimmatkar et al., Phtymedicine, 2003). It has also a beneficial effect in the case of chronic diseases of the digestive tract such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (Gerhardt et al, Gastroenterlogie, 2001). But the use of boswellia is not only linked to tradition, it also has a scientific basis thanks to several researches that in recent years have explained the action mechanism of the remedy. The resin of the plant contains boswellic acids that are able to inhibit an enzyme, 5-lipoxygenase, involved in both acute and chronic inflammation (Siddiqui et al., Indian J Pharm Sci, 2011). In addition to this, boswellic acids also inhibit leukocyte elastase, an enzyme that can deteriorate tissue collagen (Safayhi et al, J Pharmacol Exp Ther, 1997). Boswellia is found in the form of dry extract, 300 mg. You can take two tablets per day after meals until pain is resolved. In case of chronic conditions, this treatment can be prolonged for three months. Alternatively, you can use the mother tincture, 30-40 drops in a little water twice a day. It is also possible to find in chemist’s and herbalist’s shops creams that have as an ingredient the boswellia, in this case the remedy is to be applied locally. Unlike other anti-inflammatory drugs, boswellia has no side effects on the gastric mucosa, although diarrhea and nausea can rarely occur. In any case, always consult your doctor before starting any treatment to avoid any interactions with the medicines in use. Do not use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.