Boswellia: Discover Its Benefits and How to Use It

Boswellia is a medium-sized tree of the Burseraceae family (genus Boswellia) that grows in the dry mountainous regions of India, North Africa, and the Middle East. 5,000 years ago, people regarded the resin from this plant as a true gift from the gods, and it became the subject of a thriving trade organised along the Spice Route. Even today, people in India and the Middle East still harvest frankincense resin for its medicinal properties.

Boswellia serrata is a tree that can grow up to ten metres. Also known as the frankincense or olibanum tree, it has papery bark that peels off in large sheets, and a highly fragrant, gummy resin flows through its tissues. The glossy green foliage falls off during periods of drought.

People have used resin from the Boswellia tree for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various inflammatory conditions. The boswellic acids it contains, notably acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid, block enzymes linked to inflammation, prompting growing interest amongst researchers. Preliminary studies even suggest its potential in cancer prevention, acting through complex mechanisms within our DNA.

There are several species of Boswellia, the main ones being:

1. Boswellia serrata: Also known as Indian Boswellia or Salai Guggul, native to India, it produces high-quality incense, prized for its ease of blending and burning

2. Boswellia sacra: Also known as Omani frankincense, it is predominantly found in Arabia and East Africa

3. Boswellia carteri: Known as Somali Frankincense, it is found mainly in Somalia and Ethiopia. Its resin, used by the ancient Egyptians for medicinal purposes, is renowned for its balsamic and stimulating properties

4. Boswellia frereana: Also known as Maydi incense, native to the Gulf of Aden region

5. Boswellia papyrifera: Known as Ethiopian Frankincense, it is found mainly in Ethiopia and Eritrea

Boswellia has remarkable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it one of the most extensively studied medicinal plants by Western researchers. It acts directly on inflammation and calcium-degrading processes, providing rapid relief.

Boswellia oleoresin offers numerous benefits for joint health. Used in Ayurvedic medicine, it acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, alleviating joint pain and treating chronic inflammatory bowel diseases. In laboratory studies, this resin inhibits enzymes responsible for cartilage breakdown, reducing inflammation and cartilage destruction, as seen in osteoarthritis. It is regarded as a natural remedy for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma.

Boswellia offers benefits for the skin thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally used to treat eczema, irritations, and minor injuries, it is regarded as a natural remedy for skin ageing, by blocking the oxidation caused by free radicals.

Boswellia is available in various forms:

1. In capsules or tablets for precise dosing

2. As a liquid extract for easy addition to liquids or food

3. As a cream or balm for direct topical application to the skin

4. As incense for burning, for its aromatic and medicinal properties

5. As a concentrated alcohol-based tincture for precise dosing

6. As a powder for mixing into smoothies, drinks, or recipes

Gipsy is a graduate of ESJ Paris. After 10 years’ experience in general and women’s magazines, she decided to specialise in writing about health and wellbeing. With a certification in yin yoga under her belt, she now skilfully combines her writing with her yoga mat. Her aim goes far beyond mere words. Her commitment runs deep: to help readers incorporate small tips into their daily lives that help them look after themselves and their environment. Every word is an invitation to adopt a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.