Boswellia & Inflammation

Boswellia serrata, a tree also known as frankincense, produces a resin that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Ayurvedic medicine originated thousands of years ago in India and traditionally used boswellia to treat pain and inflammation. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center reports that boswellia can be used specifically to treat asthma, colitis, arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

Function

A study on boswelllic acids at the Institute of Pharmacology at the University of Frankfurt, Germany reported that boswellia might be considered as an alternative medication to pharmaceutical steroids. An additional study conducted by the University Tubingen, Deutschland found that boswellic acids inhibit leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are believed to perpetuate a variety of chronic inflammatory diseases. Though additional research is needed, these findings are promising for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, colitis and bronchial asthma.

Additional Uses

Although there is no confirmed scientific research on humans, Natural Standard and the faculty of Harvard Medical School say that the use of boswellia has been suggested for a variety of other ailments including digestion, scars and insomnia. In the "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," boswellia is described as having anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. It may be used topically for pain, ringworm or boils and can help to repair damage to blood vessels caused by inflammation.

Considerations

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not regulate boswellia. The safety, strength and quality in regard to inflammation cannot be guaranteed. Natural Standard also states that there is not enough research completed on humans in regard to the healing properties of boswellia. Due to the lack of scientific evidence, you should always consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting a new herb regime.

Side Effects

The side effects associated with boswellia include stomach upset, acid reflux, heartburn or diarrhea. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that although boswellia may decrease inflammation, there is a risk of increased bleeding. People with blood disorders or who are taking blood thinners should consult a doctor before taking boswellia.

Interactions and Precautions

Boswellia may interact with some medications by increasing their effect or toxicity, according to the faculty at Harvard Medical School. Certain asthma medicines, anticancer drugs and cholesterol medication can be affected. Boswellia should not be used by pregnant or breast feeding women or by children until more research is conducted.