Burseraceae
Boswellia
Boswellia serrata
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: India, North Africa, Middle East
Also known as: Indian Frankincense, Shallaki, Salai Guggal
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Parts Used
Resin
Therapeutic Uses
Osteoarthritis (knee — multiple RCTs), rheumatoid arthritis, IBD (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis), asthma, brain edema reduction. AKBA is one of the most potent natural 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors known.
Herbal Actions
Anti-inflammatory (5-LOX inhibitor), analgesic, anti-arthritic, neuroprotective, anti-cancer
Active Constituents
Boswellic acids (AKBA — acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid, α/β-boswellic acids), incensole, terpenoids
Preparation Methods
💊 Capsule🏺 Tincture
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | Not applicable — resin not water soluble |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:5, 90% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Standardized extract (65% boswellic acids): 300–400mg 3x daily with food. AKBA-enriched extract (Aflapin, 5-Loxin): 100–250mg daily. Take with a fatty meal — increases absorption 4-fold. Effects within 2–4 weeks. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy (may stimulate menstruation). Caution with blood thinners. Avoid 2 weeks before surgery.
Side Effects: Mild GI upset, nausea, acid reflux. Rare skin rash. Generally well tolerated.