Boswellia (Boswellia serrate), or frankincense, is
an herb that is derived from a large tree that grows in northern Africa, India
and the Middle East. The dried resinous gum (guggul) obtained from the tree has
been valued since antiquity for its therapeutic value. Traditional uses for
boswellia include the treatment of: diabetes, fever, cardiovascular conditions,
skin and blood diseases and many other disorders.
In India, the boswellia tree is known as shallaki. Among certain
tribes, the shallaki are regarded as sacred, ancestral property and tribal
families have guardianship over the trees to ensure they are not destroyed. The
wealth of the family is determined by the number of shallaki over which it has
guardianship.
Types of pain: that can be treated with Boswellia
- Ulcers
- Sciatica
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Osteoarthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Lower Back pain
Indications and Dosing for Boswellia
Boswellia is available as standardized extract containing
37.5 to 65 percent boswellic acids, which is the preferred form to buy. It is
also available in tablet form. If purchasing a topical cream look for one that
has Boswellia serrate as the base and is standardized for boswellia acids.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): for the best results, choose
a general dosage and combine it with 50mg ashwaganda taken three times daily.
Ashwaganda is is an important herb in the Ayurvedic herbal medicine system;
while not specifically a pain reliever, it enhances the anti- inflammatory
activity of boswellia and contributes some diuretic properties as well.
Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Some practitioners
recommend taking boswellia along with glucosamine for treatment of arthritis. Take
400mg boswellia three times daily.
General Dosing: For most conditions, take 400mg tree
times daily if the supplement is standardized to 37.5 percent. If the
supplement is standardized to 65 percent take 200mg three times daily.
How Safe is Bosellia
When taken by
mouth: Boswellia serrata is likely safe for most adults. Boswellia serrata
extract has been used safely in doses up to 1000 mg daily for up to 6 months.
It usually doesn't cause major side effects. But some people have reported
stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, heartburn, and itching.
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