आयुर्वेदिक उपचार
12 Powerful Ayurvedic Herbs and Spices with Health Benefits
Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system of medicine. It aims to preserve health and wellness by keeping the mind, body, and spirit in ...
boswellia
Human studies link <anchor>boswellia</anchor> to reduced pain, improved mobility, and a greater range of movement in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It may also help prevent oral infections and fight gingivitis (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20).
Boswellia: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More
Boswellia: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and More

[Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/)

- Health Conditions
- Discover
- Plan
- Connect

Subscribe

[**Nutrition**](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition)

- Meal Kits


- [Overview](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/meal-kits)
- [Diets](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/meal-kits/diets)
- [Meal Kits](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/meal-kits/meal-kit-reviews)
- [Prepared Meals](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/meal-kits/prepared-meal-reviews)
- [Comparisons](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/meal-kits/comparisons)
- [Grocery Delivery](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/meal-kits/grocery-delivery)

- [Special Diets](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/diets)
- [Healthy Eating](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-and-nutrients)
- [Food Freedom](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-freedom)
- [Conditions](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nutrition-for-conditions)
- [Feel Good Food](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/feel-good-food)
- [Products](https://www.healthline.com/reviews/nutrition-products)
- [Vitamins & Supplements](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamins-and-supplements)
- [Sustainability](https://www.healthline.com/program/the-sustainable-table)
- [Weight Management](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/weight-management)

# Boswellia (Indian Frankincense)

![](//i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Debra-Rose-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — Written by Aaron Moncivaiz —  Updated on October 6, 2018

- [Research](#research)
- [How it works](#how-it-works)
- [OA](#oa)
- [RA](#ra)
- [IBD](#ibd)
- [Asthma](#asthma)
- [Cancer](#cancer)
- [Dosage](#dosage)
- [Side effects](#side-effects)

Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is an herbal extract from the Boswellia serrata tree. It may help reduce inflammation and benefit people with certain health conditions.

Resin made from boswellia extract has been used for centuries in Asian and African folk medicine. It’s believed to treat chronic inflammatory illnesses as well as a number of other health conditions. Boswellia is available as a resin, pill, or cream.

## What the research says

Studies show that boswellia may reduce inflammation and may be useful in treating the following conditions:

- [osteoarthritis (OA)](https://www.healthline.com/health/osteoarthritis)
- [rheumatoid arthritis (RA)](https://www.healthline.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis)
- [asthma](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma)
- [inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)](https://www.healthline.com/health/inflammatory-bowel-disease)

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](https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer), such as [leukemia](https://www.healthline.com/health/leukemia) and [breast cancer](https://www.healthline.com/health/breast-cancer).

Boswellia may interact with and decrease the effects of anti-inflammatory medications. Talk to your doctor before using boswellia products, especially if you’re taking other medications to treat inflammation.

## How boswellia works

Some research shows that boswellic acid can prevent the formation of [leukotrienes](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2007.11.019) in the body. Leukotrienes are molecules that have been identified as a cause of inflammation. They may trigger [asthma symptoms](https://www.healthline.com/health/early-symptoms-arthritis).

Four acids in boswellia resin contribute to the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties. These acids inhibit 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO), an enzyme that produces leukotriene. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is thought to be the most powerful of the four boswellic acids. However, [other research](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2012.10.009) suggests other boswellic acids are responsible for the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties.

Boswellia products are generally rated on their concentration of boswellic acids.

## On OA

Many studies of boswellia’s effect on OA have found that it’s effective in treating OA pain and inflammation.

One [2003 study](https://doi.org/10.1078/094471103321648593) published in the journal _Phytomedicine_ found that all 30 people with OA knee pain who received boswellia reported a decrease in knee pain. They also reported an increase in knee flexion and how far they could walk.

[Newer](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10067-017-3603-z) [studies](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12937-015-0115-z) support the continued use of boswellia for OA.

Another [study](https://doi.org/10.7150/ijms.8.615), funded by a boswellia production company, found that increasing the dosage of enriched boswellia extract led to an increase in physical ability. OA knee pain decreased after 90 days with the boswellia product, compared to a lesser dosage and placebo. It also helped reduce the levels of a cartilage-degrading enzyme.

## On RA

Studies on the usefulness of boswellia in RA treatment have shown mixed results. An [older study](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/12466811_Randomized_double_blind_trial_of_an_Ayurvedic_plant_derived_formulation_for_treatment_of_rheumatoid_arthritis) published in the _Journal of Rheumatology_ found that boswellia helps to reduce RA [joint swelling](https://www.healthline.com/symptom/joint-swelling). Some research suggests that boswellia may interfere with the autoimmune process, which would make it an effective therapy for RA. [Further](http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/10717544.2014.898347) [research](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2014.02.001) supports the effective anti-inflammatory and immune-balancing properties.

## On IBD

Due to the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties, boswellia may be effective in treating inflammatory bowel diseases such as [Crohn’s disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/crohns-disease) and [ulcerative colitis (UC)](https://www.healthline.com/health/ulcerative-colitis).

A [2001 study](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2001-10708) compared H15, a special boswellia extract, to the anti-inflammatory prescription drug mesalamine (Apriso, Asacol HD). It showed that the boswellia extract may be effective in [treating Crohn’s disease](https://www.healthline.com/health/crohns-disease/medications).

[Several](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2001-15802) [studies](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28275295) found the herb could be effective in treating UC as well. We’re just beginning to understand how the anti-inflammatory and immune-balancing effects of boswellia can improve the health of an inflamed bowel.

## On asthma

Boswellia can play a role in reducing leukotrienes, which causes bronchial muscles to contract. A [1998 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9810030) of the herb’s effect on bronchial asthma found that people who took boswellia experienced decreased asthma [symptoms](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma-symptoms) and indicators. This shows the herb could play an important role in treating bronchial asthma. Research [continues](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0035-1556201) and has shown the positive immune-balancing properties of boswellia can help the overreaction to [environmental allergens](https://www.healthline.com/health/asthma/allergic-asthma) that happens in asthma.

## On cancer

Boswellic acids act in a number of ways that may inhibit cancer growth. Boswellic acids have been shown to prevent certain enzymes from negatively affecting DNA.

[Studies](https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-11-129) have also found that boswellia may fight [advanced breast cancer cells](https://www.healthline.com/health/breast-cancer/stage-iv-what-happens-next), and it may limit the spread of malignant leukemia and [brain tumor cells](https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-tumor). [Another study](https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.25966) showed boswellic acids to be effective in suppressing the invasion of [pancreatic cancer cells](https://www.healthline.com/health/pancreatic-cancer). Studies continue and the [anti-cancer activity](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2017.05.003) of boswellia is becoming better understood.

## Dosage

Boswellia products can differ greatly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and remember to speak to your doctor before using any herbal therapy.

General dosing guidelines suggest taking 300–500 milligrams (mg) by mouth two to three times a day. The dosage may need to be higher for IBD.

The [Arthritis Foundation](http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/supplements-herbs/guide/indian-frankincense.php) suggests 300–400 mg three times per day of a product that contains 60 percent boswellic acids.

## Side effects

Boswellia may stimulate blood flow in the uterus and pelvis. It can accelerate menstrual flow and may induce miscarriage in pregnant women.

Other possible [side effects](https://books.google.com/books?id=WB8PDQAAQBAJ&pg=PA161&lpg=PA161) of boswellia include:

- [nausea](https://www.healthline.com/symptom/nausea)
- [acid reflux](https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/acid-reflux-symptoms)
- [diarrhea](https://www.healthline.com/symptom/diarrhea)
- [skin rashes](https://www.healthline.com/health/rashes)

Boswellia extract may also interact with medications, including ibuprofen, aspirin, and other [non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs](https://www.healthline.com/health/pain-relief/otc-anti-inflammatories) (NSAIDs).

### How we reviewed this article:

Sources

History

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our [editorial policy](https://www.healthline.com/about/process).

- Chopra A, et al. (2000). Randomized double blind trial of an Ayurvedicplant derived formulation for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis \[Abstract\].

[https://www.researchgate.net/publication/12466811\_Randomized\_double\_blind\_trial\_of\_an\_Ayurvedic\_plant\_derived\_formulation\_for\_treatment\_of\_rheumatoid\_arthritis](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/12466811_Randomized_double_blind_trial_of_an_Ayurvedic_plant_derived_formulation_for_treatment_of_rheumatoid_arthritis)
- Gerbeth K, et al.(2013). _In vitro_ metabolism,permeation, and brain availability of six major boswellic acids from _Boswellia serrata_ gum resins. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2012.10.009](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2012.10.009)
- Gerhardt H, et al.(2001). Therapy of active Crohn’s disease with Boswellia serrata extract H15\[Abstract\]. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2001-10708](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2001-10708)
- Grover AK, et al. (2016). Benefits of antioxidantsupplements for knee osteoarthritis: rationale and reality. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1186/s12937-015-0115-z](https://doi.org/10.1186/s12937-015-0115-z)
- Gupta I, et al. (1998). Effects ofBoswellia serrata gum resin in patients with bronchial asthma: results of adouble-blind, placebo-controlled, 6-week clinical study.

[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9810030](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9810030)
- Gupta I, et al.(2001). Effects of gum resin of _Boswelliaserrata_ in patients with chronic colitis \[Abstract\]. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2001-15802](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2001-15802)
- Indianfrankincense. (n.d.).

[http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/supplements-herbs/guide/indian-frankincense.php](http://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/treatments/natural/supplements-herbs/guide/indian-frankincense.php)
- Karimifar M, etal. (2017). Evaluation of the effect of _Elaeagnusangustifolia_ alone and combined with _Boswelliathurifera_ compared with ibuprofen in patients with knee osteoarthritis: arandomized double-blind controlled clinical trial. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1007/s10067-017-3603-z](https://doi.org/10.1007/s10067-017-3603-z)
- Kimmatkar N, etal. (2003). Efficacy and tolerability of _Boswelliaserrata_ extract in treatment of osteoarthritis of knee _-_ a randomized double blind placebo controlled trial\[Abstract\]. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1078/094471103321648593](https://doi.org/10.1078/094471103321648593)
- Mostafa DM, et al. (2015). Transdermal microemulsionsof _Boswellia carterii_ Bird:formulation, characterization and _in vivo_ evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity. DOI:

[http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/10717544.2014.898347](http://dx.doi.org/10.3109/10717544.2014.898347)
- Natural Standard. (2010). Natural standard herb & supplement guide - e-book:An evidence-based reference. Maryland Heights, MO: Mosby.

- Park B, et al. (2011). Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acidsuppresses invasion of pancreatic cancer cells through the downregulation ofCXCR4 chemokine receptor expression \[Abstract\]. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.25966](https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.25966)
- Ranjbarnejad T, et al. (2017). Methanolic extract of _Boswellia serrata_ exhibits anti-cancer activities by targeting microsomalprostaglandin E synthase-1 in human colon cancer cells. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2017.05.003](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2017.05.003)
- Sarkate A, et al. (2017). Investigation of mitigating effect ofcolon-specific prodrugs of boswellic acid on 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonicacid-induced colitis in Wistar rats: Design, kinetics and biologicalevaluation. DOI:

[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28275295](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28275295)
- Singh S, et al. (2008). Boswellic acids: A leukotriene inhibitor alsoeffective through topical application in inflammatory disorders. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2007.11.019](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2007.11.019)
- Soni KK, et al. (2015). Boswellia serrata and Ocimum sanctum extractsreduce inflammation in an ova-induced asthma model of BALB/c mice. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0035-1556201](https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0035-1556201)
- Suhail MM, et al. (2011). _Boswellia sacra_ essential oil induces tumor cell-specific apoptosisand suppresses tumor aggressiveness in cultured human breast cancer cells. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-11-129](https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-11-129)
- Umar S, et al. (2014). _Boswelliaserrata_ extract attenuates inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress incollagen induced arthritis. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2014.02.001](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2014.02.001)
- Vishal AA, et al. (2011). A double blind, randomized, placebo controlledclinical study evaluates the early efficacy of Aflapin in subjects withosteoarthritis of knee. DOI:

[https://doi.org/10.7150/ijms.8.615](https://doi.org/10.7150/ijms.8.615)

Share this article

[Share on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthline.com%2Fhealth%2Fboswellia%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dfacebook%26utm_campaign%3Dsocial-sharebar-referred-desktop "Share on Facebook")

[Share on Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?via=healthline&text=Boswellia%3A%20Uses%2C%20Dosage%2C%20Side%20Effects%2C%20and%20More&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthline.com%2Fhealth%2Fboswellia%3Futm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_source%3Dtwitter%26utm_campaign%3Dsocial-sharebar-referred-desktop "Share on Twitter")

![](//i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Debra-Rose-500x500-Bio.png?w=105&h=105)

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT — Written by Aaron Moncivaiz —  Updated on October 6, 2018

### Read this next

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/anti-inflammatory-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)

[10 Supplements That Fight Inflammation](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/anti-inflammatory-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)



![](//i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/franziska.png?w=73&h=73)





Written by Franziska Spritzler



[Inflammation is one of the leading drivers of many common diseases. Here are 10 supplements backed by science that can help reduce inflammation.](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/anti-inflammatory-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/anti-inflammatory-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/frankincense-and-cancer?utm_source=ReadNext)

[Can Frankincense Treat Cancer?](https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/frankincense-and-cancer?utm_source=ReadNext)









Medically reviewed by [Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/frankincense-and-cancer?utm_source=ReadNext)

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/herbs-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)

[Herbs and Supplements for Diabetes](https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/herbs-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)









Medically reviewed by [Kim Rose-Francis RDN, CDCES, LD](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team)



[Research shows you can prevent, halt, and even reverse type 2 diabetes with proper diet and lifestyle. Fresh foods and nutritional supplements are key.](https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/herbs-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/herbs-supplements?utm_source=ReadNext)

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/herbal-supplements-liver-toxicity?utm_source=ReadNext)

[TikTok Loves These 6 Herbal Supplements, But They May Damage Your Liver](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/herbal-supplements-liver-toxicity?utm_source=ReadNext)

[Herbal supplements are going viral on TikTok due to their reported health benefits, but new research finds six of the most popular (including green…](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/herbal-supplements-liver-toxicity?utm_source=ReadNext)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/herbal-supplements-liver-toxicity?utm_source=ReadNext)

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/phosphatidylcholine?utm_source=ReadNext)

[What Is Phosphatidylcholine and How Is It Used?](https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/phosphatidylcholine?utm_source=ReadNext)









Medically reviewed by [Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team)



[Phosphatidylcholine is known to boost cognition, but its potential benefits don't stop there. Here's what you should know about this herbal remedy.](https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/phosphatidylcholine?utm_source=ReadNext)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/phosphatidylcholine?utm_source=ReadNext)

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/3-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric?utm_source=ReadNext)

[What is Tumeric (Curcumin) Good for?](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/3-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric?utm_source=ReadNext)

Medically reviewed by [the Healthline Medical Network](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team)



[Turmeric, the spice that gives curry its yellow hue, has numerous benefits for the body and mind. These include fighting inflammation, reducing…](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/3-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric?utm_source=ReadNext)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/3-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric?utm_source=ReadNext)

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/ashwagandha?utm_source=ReadNext)

[8 Evidence-Based Health Benefits of Ashwagandha](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/ashwagandha?utm_source=ReadNext)

Medically reviewed by [the Healthline Medical Network](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team)



[Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb with anti-inflammatory properties. Learn more about 8 evidence-backed benefits, such as improved sleep and fertility…](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/ashwagandha?utm_source=ReadNext)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/ashwagandha?utm_source=ReadNext)

- [image-link](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/dandelion-benefits?utm_source=ReadNext)

[Dandelion: 5 Potential Health Benefits](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/dandelion-benefits?utm_source=ReadNext)

Medically reviewed by [the Healthline Medical Network](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team)



[You may consider dandelion to be a stubborn weed in your garden, but this plant has beneficial properties. Learn about its 5 potential health benefits.](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/dandelion-benefits?utm_source=ReadNext)

[READ MORE](https://www.healthline.com/health/video/dandelion-benefits?utm_source=ReadNext)


- [About Us](https://www.healthline.com/about)
- [Contact Us](https://www.healthline.com/about/contact-us)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.healthline.com/privacy-policy)
- Privacy Settings
- [Advertising Policy](https://www.healthline.com/advertising-policy)
- [Health Topics](https://www.healthline.com/directory/topics)

- [Sitemap](https://www.healthline.com/sitemap)
- [Medical Affairs](https://www.healthline.com/medical-team)
- [Content Integrity](https://www.healthline.com/about/content-integrity)
- [Newsletters](https://www.healthline.com/newsletter-signup)
- © 2024 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https://www.healthline.com/additional-information).


© 2024 Healthline Media LLC. All rights reserved. Healthline Media is an RVO Health Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. [See additional information](https://www.healthline.com/additional-information).

[Healthline Media Logo](https://www.healthlinemedia.com/?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=logo)

[About](https://www.healthlinemedia.com/?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=about) [Careers](https://rvohealth.com/careers) [Advertise with us](https://www.healthlinemedia.com/advertise?utm_source=healthline.com&utm_medium=site&utm_campaign=footer&utm_content=advertise)

OUR BRANDS

[Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/) [Medical News Today](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/) [Greatist](https://greatist.com/) [Psych Central](https://psychcentral.com/) [Bezzy](https://bezzy.com/)

[@TRUST, AACI Certified logo](https://aacihealthcare.com/certificates/c143-1-2021-trust-usa/)