Boswellia serrata is a tree whose natural botanical extracts have been highly regarded for therapeutic and spiritual uses for thousands of years. Scientific interest in the properties of Boswellia have also grown significantly in more recent decades. The purpose of this article is to explore Boswellia’s traditional uses, benefits, forms, and overall value in wellness practices.
What is Boswellia Seratta?
Boswellia is a genus of trees in the Burseraceae family that grows in the dry mountainous regions of India, North Africa and the Middle East. Boswellia seratta, also known as Indian Frankincense, is primarily native to India. Since ancient times, Boswellia has been valued for its resin, a plant exudate that is collected and utilized for wellness practices, aromatics, and herbal preparations. With its deep roots in traditional health practices, Boswellia contributes to a holistic approach to enhancing overall well-being.*
Traditional Uses of Boswellia
Frankincense resins secreted by any of the 20 or more Boswellia species have been traditionally used in India, Africa, China, and the Middle East to support ceremonial practices and wellness routines [1,2].
Historical Use
Boswellia serrata is one of the most valued herbs in Ayurveda, known as “Gajahakshya” in Sanskrit, and used for both ceremonial and wellness purposes [3]. The ancient texts from the pillars of classical Ayurvedic Science describe numerous applications of Boswellia in helping to promote balance and a sense of well-being. Specific applications include supporting joint, immune, gastrointestinal and respiratory health, helping relieve occasional discomfort, and promoting mental clarity [3].*
Boswellia in Aromatherapy
The resinous compounds in Boswellia serrata, including essential oils, are the source of its renowned fragrance. The oil is rich in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes such as alpha-pinene, limonene, and beta-pinene, known for their woody, citrusy, turpentine aroma [4]. Boswellia is used in the production of incense powder and sticks for spiritual and aromatherapeutic purposes [3].
Boswellia in Herbal Remedies
As an herbal remedy, Boswellia benefits may be derived from its use in oral, topical, and aromatherapeutic applications [5]. The resin is ground and encapsulated into a Boswellia supplement that is consumed orally. Health-promoting compounds in the resin can also be extracted using an alcohol and water mixture which is consumed orally, or using fatty acids, which are applied topically for skin care and massages [1]. Besides its use as a perfume, Boswellia is also used to support respiratory health as steam inhalation by adding the resin to hot water.*
Benefits of Boswellia
Recent scientific research is uncovering the diverse range of natural compounds in Boswellia serrata that support brain and joint health, immune function, GI health, and overall well-being. The benefits Boswellia provides support a holistic approach to maintaining balance and resilience in daily life.*
Supports Healthy Brain Function and Cognition
The bioactive compounds in Boswellia, primarily boswellic acids like acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), support cognitive health by mechanisms such as through supporting the brain’s natural protections against oxidative stress [6–8]. Moreover, AKBA supports the healthy function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and supports balanced signaling of key neurotransmitters such as GABA, glutamate, and acetylcholine [9,10].*
Supports Healthy BDNF Levels
Boswellia serrata gum extract also supports healthy levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) [11]. BDNF is a protein primarily expressed in the nervous system and brain that contributes to nerve health, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis [12]. BDNF also plays a crucial role in neuroprotective functions [12]. Through its support for BDNF, Boswellia upholds natural processes that maintain brain health and the ability of the brain to change itself through experience.*
Supports Healthy Immune Signaling
Additional boswellic acids in Boswellia serrata, like α-boswellic acid and 3-O-acetyl-α and β-boswellic acids, help support the body’s defenses against oxidative stress and support the healthy balance of immune signaling molecules, like cytokines, to promote immune resilience to daily stressors [13]. Phenolic compounds in Boswellia extracts are also known to exhibit antioxidative properties [14].*
Supports Joint Comfort
Through supporting a balanced immune response and a healthy balance of molecules like cytokines, Boswellia benefits also include support for healthy joint function, flexibility, and physical comfort [15,16]. Boswellia serrata demonstrates the ability to support healthy cartilage structure and function, primarily through helping to maintain the healthy activity of enzymes like matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) and lipoxygenase [17].*
How to Take Boswellia
The resin of Boswellia is consumed orally in the form of capsules or extracts, while the pure essential oil is used only for aromatherapeutic purposes. A high-quality Boswellia supplement is recommended, with dosing based on the amounts used in clinical studies. The serving size administered in our products, Qualia Mind® and Qualia Joint Health, were based on human clinical studies demonstrating significant support across multiple cognitive domains and for joint mobility and comfort, respectively. Boswellia complements a balanced lifestyle by supporting brain health, physical comfort and mobility, a healthy gut microbiome, and immune system resilience, and may enhance the benefits gained through mindfulness practices and a nutrient-rich diet.*
Who Should Not Take Boswellia?
Because there isn’t sufficient reliable safety information in these groups, any women who are pregnant or nursing, and individuals under the age of 18, should stay on the safe side and not take Boswellia. If you are currently taking prescription medications, have a diagnosed medical condition, or are concerned about taking it, check with your doctor.
Boswellia in Qualia Supplements
Boswellia serrata’s versatility as a botanical therapy may appeal to those pursuing holistic wellness. Because this botanical is a powerhouse, Qualia includes Boswellia serrata in our two premium products, Qualia Mind® and Qualia Joint Health. Qualia Mind contains Nutricog® and was expertly formulated to help fuel focus and concentration, support healthy cognitive performance, and support long-term brain health. Qualia Joint Health contains AprèsFLEX® and was carefully crafted to support joint and tendon health, promote healthy mobility, and support healthy cartilage creation, maintenance, and preservation.*
References
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[5]in: LiverTox: Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda (MD), 2012.
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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