Boswellia and Boswellic Acid
Boswellia sacra (Photo credit: scott.zona)
Boswellia is an extract that is derived from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree. The use of Boswellia has its roots in ancient Asia where traditionally it was used by Ayurvedic medicine practioners to treat conditions such as diarrhea, ringworms and dysentery and to relieve symptoms of arthritis and pulmonary diseases. Boswellia is also popularly known as Indian frankincense.
Boswellic acid which is a component found in Boswellia has been found to contain anti inflammatory and anti arthritic properties and this help in relieving pain and symptoms for arthritic patients. These properties are similar to steroid and non-steroid based medications that are used to treat arthritis patients.
The herb is taken in supplement form. The benefits of taking the boswellia herb supplement are plenty. Because of the anti inflammatory properties found in the herb’s acid, people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis find that they get relief from the constant pain in their joints. This is because research has shown that boswellic acid will inhibit the inflammatory cytokines and mediators so that they do not initiate the inflammation process in the joints. The acid will also help in treating levels of synovial fluid which is found in the joints so that the joint is lubricated and it moves smoothly which will ensure that there is less stiffness. The herb will also help people who suffer from chronic back pain and other pain in the body, joints and bones that is as a result of inflammation.
Inflammatory Properties
Asthma sufferers are another group of people who benefit from Boswellia’s anti inflammatory properties as they will feel better. This is because studies have shown that Boswellic acid will decrease symptoms such as asthma attacks, in people who suffer from bronchial asthma.
Boswellia also works to relieve symptoms of Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease also known as colitisis, ulcers and other similar diseases that cause inflammation in the digestive system. In studies done to test the effectiveness of Boswellia extract, patients who suffer from Crohn’s disease had improved symptoms. Those who suffer from colitisis had their symptoms completely disappear after taking the herb for a period of time. It also helped to make the symptoms of ulcers, especially those that were as a result of acid overproduction, completely disappear.
Weight Reduction
Boswellia is also thought to help in weight reduction. This is because it contains gugglesterones which is a component that stimulates the thyroid which in turn increases the body’s metabolism. It is also reduces pain in cancer patients because of the anti inflammatory properties in the herb. However, it does not reduce the size of the tumors.
It is not advisable to use boswellia to treat any of these conditions without the advice and the supervision of a certified medical practioner in the area of herbal medicine or your doctor. This is so you may get the best advice regarding the amounts, the dosage and the frequency you should take the drug. Because Boswellia is a herb, it has no side effects though some people may have slight irritations form its use.