Boswellia serrata Roxb. Indian Frankincense, Dhup, Salai Guggal Taylor Gannon, Student Pharmacist, Spring 2022
History Boswellia is thought to be related to the tree from the Bible that provided the frankincense gift given to baby Jesus by the wise men. It can be used within hair, clothes, or rooms as a perfume. Historically, the plant was burned to produce psychoactive effects in religious and spiritual ceremonies. In India, the plant can be used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of multiple ailments. In Egypt, it can be used within the mummification process as an embalming fluid ingredient.1 http://blogs.reading.ac.uk/crg/files/2014/12/5Boswellia_sacraCC2.jpg
Common Uses
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FAST FACTS
Oleoresin Gum – anti-inflammatory effects • Asthma • Osteoarthritis • Rheumatoid Arthritis • Colitis • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Boswellic Acids – immunomodulatory and antimicrobial effects
Dosage Forms1, 3 The most commonly available formulation is a tablet. The herb can also be formulated into a capsule or tincture. Many combination products exist with other herbal products.
Typical Dosing1
Mechanism of Action2 Most Likely – Inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), which provides an antiinflammatory effect • 5-LOX is part of the arachidonic acid pathway and results in the production of leukotrienes that cause inflammation • Too many leukotrienes can result in excessive inflammation, which can be seen with many inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or irritable bowel syndrome Other potential targets include cytokines, such as interleukins and TNF-alpha
Inflammatory Conditions: 300 to 400 mg three times daily of extract or gum resin tablets/capsules 29