Boswelia

Boswelia is available in capsule form for oral administration and the active substance content per capsule varies between 250 and 500 mg.

Manufacturers of this supplement - Zenyth, Dacia Plant, Cosmopharm, Steaua Divină, Pro Natura, Secom, Himalaya, GNC, etc.

Boswellia is mainly used for the management of inflammatory conditions. Thanks to its ability to inhibit the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase, which plays a key role in the production of leukotrienes, the molecules that cause inflammation, Boswellia is effective in treating the following conditions:

• Osteoarthritis - Boswellia helps reduce pain and improve joint mobility in people with osteoarthritis (arthrosis).

• Rheumatoid arthritis - Boswellia's anti-inflammatory properties can help relieve the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint swelling.

• Inflammatory bowel disease - Boswellia can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, helping to manage the symptoms of diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

• Asthma - Studies suggest that Boswellia may reduce airway inflammation and improve symptoms of bronchial asthma.

• Chronic pain - Boswellia is also used to manage chronic pain, such as that associated with fibromyalgia.

The recommended dose of Boswellia varies depending on the strength of the product and the condition for which it is indicated. 

In general, the standard dose for a Boswellia extract containing 60-65% boswellic acids is 250-500 mg, taken 2-3 times daily. 

It is important to follow the recommendations on the product label or the advice of a medical professional.

Boswellia is generally well tolerated, but there are some contraindications to be aware of:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: the safety of Boswellia during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well documented, so its use should be avoided during these periods unless recommended by a doctor.
• Allergies: people with known hypersensitivity to plants of the Burseraceae family should avoid using Boswellia.

If you suffer from severe chronic diseases, it is not recommended to start taking Boswellia supplements or any other dietary supplement without the advice of your doctor.

There are combinations of anti-inflammatory ingredients on the market, such as Boswelia turmeric, but they should be used on the advice of a specialist.

Although Boswellia is considered safe for most people, some may experience side effects, which include:

• Digestive problems: nausea, diarrhea, bloating and gastroesophageal reflux may occur in rare cases.
• Allergic reactions: although rare, allergic reactions to Boswellia may include rash, itching and difficulty breathing. If these occur, use should be discontinued immediately and medical attention sought.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches, especially at the beginning of treatment.

Boswellia may interact with certain medicines such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, aspirin), immunosuppressants or anticoagulants.

If you also take other medicines for chronic conditions, talk to your doctor before starting Boswellia.

There is no clear information about Boswellia overdose cases, but taking Boswellia in doses much higher than recommended may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, gastric irritation and dizziness. 

In case of accidental overdose, seek medical advice immediately.

Boswellia should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Healthline, Boswellia (Indian incense)
• Drugs.com, Indian incense
• WebMD, Boswellia Serrata - Uses, side effects and more
• NIH, National Library of Medicine, Boswellia Serrata, a potential anti-inflammatory agent, Efficacy of Boswellia and Boswellia extract for patients with osteoarthritis