Boswellia extract is typically available in the form of supplements, essential oils, resin, pills, or cream. It is an effective anti-inflammatory and painkiller that has a diverse set of medicinal uses. Some studies suggest that boswellia may even be as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the treatment of certain health conditions, but it has the advantage of lacking any of the unwanted side effects caused by the drugs. Here are a few of the health benefits that boswellia can provide:
Boswellia helps relieve pain and inflammation from arthritis
Due to their potent anti-inflammatory properties, boswellia can be used a remedy for osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Its effectiveness in treating arthritis is comparable to that of NSAIDs minus the joint damage commonly associated with the drugs. It has been shown to reduce knee pain in arthritis patients. It may even prevent the loss of cartilage by helping lower the levels of a cartilage-degrading enzyme in patients with OA. Boswellia can also be used to improve joint stiffness and function in the knees.
Boswellia may help prevent and fight cancer
Boswellia resin contains four acids that are responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties. One of the most powerful of these acids is Acetyl-11-keto-?-boswellic acid (AKBA), which has the potential ability to fight cancer. While AKBA has the most potential in inhibiting cancer growth, the other acids may aid in this as well by preventing certain enzymes from damaging DNA. Boswellic acids may be capable of inducing apoptosis or cell death in leukemia, breast, brain, prostate, and pancreatic cancer cells. (Related: Boswellia is a powerful anti-inflammatory herbal extract that can prevent cancer.)
Boswellia helps alleviate asthma symptoms
Leukotrienes are molecules that cause the constriction and inflammation of bronchial muscles. This inflammation can trigger the symptoms of asthma. Boswellia can help relieve these symptoms by playing a role in preventing the formation of leukotrienes in the body and by inhibiting their inflammatory abilities. Research shows that boswellia has positive immune-balancing properties that can aid in managing the overreaction to environmental allergens associated with asthma. Other respiratory conditions boswellia have a positive impact on include coughs, catarrh, and bronchitis.
Boswellia can help treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Due to boswellia's anti-inflammatory and immune-balancing properties, the herb can be used as an effective treatment for inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC). According to one study, 70 percent of patients with chronic UC who were administered boswellia extract went into remission, as opposed to the 40 percent of patients who were given the IBD medication sulfasalazine. Furthermore, boswellia possesses anti-ulcer properties that can protect the gastrointestinal tract from a number of health problems. It is also known to promote the overall health of the digestive system.
Boswellia boosts the immune system
Boswellia's immune-balancing properties give it protective effects on the immune system. It can also support the immune system by improving blood circulation and speeding up recovery from viral and bacterial infections. A common remedy for relieving cough or colds is to diffuse frankincense essential oil. It can also be steamed and inhaled.
Boswellia may help relieve depression
According to one study, a component of boswellia may act as an anti-depressant. The component acetate was shown to provide similar effects to the antidepressant drug paroxetine.
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