Uses & Effectiveness
Overview
Boswellia serrata is a tree native to India, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. It is commonly used in the traditional Indian medicine system, Ayurveda.
Boswellia serrata contains chemicals that might decrease swelling and increase the body’s immune response. Extracts of the Boswellia serrata sap, bark, and other plant parts have been taken by mouth for therapeutic purposes.
People use Boswellia serrata for osteoarthritis. It is also used for many other purposes, including asthma, diabetes, and stroke, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these other uses. There is also no good evidence to support using Boswellia serrata for COVID-19.
The sap from Boswellia serrata is sometimes used to make Frankincense. Frankincense is typically applied to the skin or inhaled as aromatherapy. For information on those uses, see Frankincense.
The interesting fact about Boswellia Serrata, which is not a vitamin but rather an herbal extract, is that it has been used for centuries in traditional Indian and African medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular natural remedy for conditions like arthritis and asthma.
Side Effects
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.
For information on using Boswellia serrata on the skin or as aromatherapy, see Frankincense.
Interactions
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Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) substrates) interacts with BOSWELLIA SERRATA
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Boswellia serrata might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
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Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) substrates) interacts with BOSWELLIA SERRATA
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Boswellia serrata might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
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Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) substrates) interacts with BOSWELLIA SERRATA
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Boswellia serrata might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
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Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) substrates) interacts with BOSWELLIA SERRATA
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Boswellia serrata might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
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Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates) interacts with BOSWELLIA SERRATA
Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Boswellia serrata might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications.
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Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants) interacts with BOSWELLIA SERRATA
Boswellia serrata can affect the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking Boswellia serrata along with these medications might alter the effects of these medications.
Moderate Interaction
Be cautious with this combination
Special Precautionsand Warnings
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.
For information on using Boswellia serrata on the skin or as aromatherapy, see Frankincense. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Boswellia serrata is likely safe when used in amounts commonly found in foods. But there isn’t enough reliable information to know if Boswellia serrata is safe to use in larger amounts as medicine when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Dosing
Boswellia serrata has most often been used by adults in doses of 100-250 mg by mouth daily, for up to 6 months. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.
For information on using Boswellia serrata on the skin or as aromatherapy, see Frankincense.
