Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense)
The ancient frankincense extract with modern evidence for joint pain, inflammation, and gut health
Also known as: Indian Frankincense • Boswellic Acids • 5-Loxin • AprèsFlex • Shallaki
Overview
Boswellia serrata is a tree resin (frankincense) that has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years. Its active compounds — boswellic acids, particularly AKBA (acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid) — are potent inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), a key enzyme in the inflammatory cascade. Unlike NSAIDs, which inhibit COX enzymes and can damage the gut, boswellia inhibits a different inflammatory pathway and actually protects the gut lining. Clinical trials show significant benefits for osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma. Standardized extracts like AprèsFlex and 5-Loxin provide consistent AKBA content for reliable results.
Key Benefits
Osteoarthritis Pain Relief
Multiple clinical trials show boswellia significantly reduces joint pain, stiffness, and improves function in osteoarthritis. AprèsFlex (100mg/day) showed significant pain reduction within 5 days — faster than many conventional treatments. A systematic review found boswellia as effective as NSAIDs for OA with fewer side effects.
Anti-Inflammatory (5-LOX Inhibition)
Boswellic acids are the only known natural 5-LOX inhibitors. 5-LOX produces leukotrienes, powerful inflammatory mediators involved in asthma, allergies, and chronic inflammation. This unique mechanism complements (rather than duplicates) the COX inhibition of NSAIDs and turmeric.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Boswellia has shown benefits for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. A study found boswellia extract was as effective as mesalazine (standard IBD drug) for maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis. Unlike NSAIDs, boswellia protects the gut lining.
Asthma
By inhibiting leukotriene synthesis, boswellia reduces airway inflammation and bronchospasm. Clinical trials show improved lung function, reduced asthma attacks, and decreased need for rescue inhalers.
Dosage & How to Take
Dose depends on extract standardization. AprèsFlex: 100-250mg/day. 5-Loxin: 100-250mg/day. Regular boswellia extract (30-40% boswellic acids): 300-500mg 2-3 times daily.
| Purpose | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Osteoarthritis (AprèsFlex) | 100 mg/day | Fast-acting. Results in 5-7 days. |
| Osteoarthritis (regular extract) | 300-500 mg, 3x/day | Standard boswellia extract (30-40% boswellic acids) |
| Inflammatory bowel disease | 350-400 mg, 3x/day | Regular extract. 6-8 weeks for full effect. |
| Asthma | 300 mg, 3x/day | Regular extract standardized to boswellic acids |
Best Time to Take
Take with meals, divided into 2-3 doses throughout the day. Fat in meals improves absorption of boswellic acids.
With or Without Food
Always take with food containing fat. Boswellic acids are fat-soluble and poorly absorbed on an empty stomach.
Forms & Bioavailability
| Form | Absorption | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AprèsFlex (Aflapin) | Very High | Joint pain, fast results | Enhanced bioavailability extract. Lower dose needed. Fastest onset of action. |
| 5-Loxin | High | Standardized AKBA | Standardized to 30% AKBA. Well-studied. |
| Regular Boswellia Extract | Moderate | Budget option, IBD | Standardized to 30-65% boswellic acids. Higher doses needed. |
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Mild GI upset (nausea, acid reflux)
- Diarrhea at high doses
Rare
- Allergic skin reactions
- Headache
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions)
- Caution with anticoagulants
Interactions
Complementary anti-inflammatory mechanisms (5-LOX vs COX). May allow NSAID dose reduction.
Boswellia may have mild antiplatelet effects; monitor if on blood thinners
Complementary — turmeric inhibits COX-2 and NF-kB, boswellia inhibits 5-LOX. Often combined.
Scientific Research
AprèsFlex for Osteoarthritis
100mg/day AprèsFlex significantly reduced pain and improved function within 5 days in knee OA patients
Boswellia vs Mesalazine for UC
Boswellia extract was as effective as mesalazine for maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis
Boswellia for Asthma
300mg 3x/day boswellia extract improved FEV1, reduced asthma attacks, and decreased rescue inhaler use
Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.