Boswellia Serrata Extract Review – Try It?
Boswellia Serrata Extract has a long and colorful history whose documented usage reaches far back in antiquity. In Biblical Times it was a prized and expensive, precious essence. In today’s modern world, with the benefit of scientific research, we’re just beginning to learn the many benefits and practical health applications of Boswellia Serrata extracts.
Just what was it about this particular herb that made it so precious in ancient times? Why was it so valuable, with a price-tag most could not afford? What is so special about this plant extract?
What our ancient ancestors understood intuitively, we are now able to explore scientifically allowing us to begin answering those questions. Read on to learn what this ancient plant can do for you.
What Is Boswellia Serrata Extract?
Boswellia Serrata is a tree that grows predominantly in India, parts of africa and the middle east. It is characterized by impressive large gnarled branches topped by fern like leaves. Quite beautiful to look at, it stands out in an otherwise barren and rugged landscape. Like a beacon in the wilderness, it is no wonder that people decided to explore its potential medicinal properties. After all, there had to be something special about the Boswellia Serrata tree that thrived in seemingly inhospitable places.
It’s usage predates the many ancient books and tablets that have been discovered in it’s native habitats and is mentioned in several of them. You may wonder why you have never heard of Boswellia if it has such historical usage and is praised often in ancient writings. More than likely, you have heard of it, or at least a product derived from it. Frankincense is made from the resin of the Boswellia Serrata tree. Boswellia Serrata extract is for all intensive purposes, Frankincense.
What Are Its Medical Benefits?
Frankincense was traditionally used as an incense often utilized in religious ceremonies, to purify the air and providing a primitive form of aromatherapy. It was also found to treat many chronic debilitating ailments that had no cure and for which little medicinal relief was offered. It provided relief of painful arthritis and inflammation.
Today we now know that its anti-inflammatory properties are a product of its unique chemical signature and offer an alternate treatment for those who prefer organic, natural medicines.
Boswellia Serrata is used to treat the following symptoms:
- Inflammation and Swelling
- Restricted or labored breathing
- Bowel upset
- Joint pain
As a supplement, Boswellia Serrata can be helpful in reducing the pain and swelling that are common in many conditions. The resin is extracted and typically used for topical applications.
Common manufactures of Boswellia Serrata are:
- Boswellin
- Niltan
- Rheumatic – X
Each of these supplements are creams that are applied to the skin for relief. However, Boswellia Serrata supplements are also available that be used along with many prescription medications for those who wish to supplement their medicinal routine in the hopes of optimizing their treatment.
Let’s take a closer look to see a bit more about some of the common and more specific conditions that Boswellia Serrata supplements can aid with.
Anti-Inflammatory
In ancient times Boswellia Serrata was used to treat inflammatory ailments like arthritis. Traditionally used by herbalists in either an oral concotion or as a topical ointment, it brought relief to those suffering the debilitating and crippling pain of arthritis. In modern times, Boswellia Serrata extract has been found to be a rich source of boswellia acids which have anti inflammatory properties that work by inhibiting the proinflammatory production of several enzymes that cause inflammation proving once again that what our ancestors knew intuitively or from trial and error application, really did work and still does today.
Asthma And Breathing
In 1998 a clinical study of the possible usage of Boswellia Serrata as a treatment for bronchial asthma was conducted. The results of that study showed a marked improvement of 70% of those patients treated with Boswellia Serrata. Many of them reported the disappearance of painful symptoms and a lowered frequency of asthma attacks after six weeks of taking 300 mg of Boswellia Serrata gum resin. Asthma is an ailment that is exacerbated by inflammation of the bronchial tubes which can restrict breathing. Boswellia serrata helps alleviate that, making breathing easier for asthma sufferers.
Gupta, I et al. Effects of Boswellia serrata gum resin in patients with bronchial asthma. Tübingen, Germany: Pharmazeutisches Institut der Universität Tübingen, 1998.
Collagenous Colitis
Collagenous Colitis is a common ailment amongst older adults and primarily affecting women. Characterized by frequent watery diarrhea, it is an inflammatory bowel disease. Those who have Collagenous Colitis may suffer bowel pain and general discomfort. Periods of uncontrollable diarrhea and may find their quality of life compromised by the nature of their ailment. The anti inflammatory properties of Boswellia Serrata extract provides direct relief of symptoms and can make life more bearable for those who suffer this chronic disease.
Osteoarthritis And Joint Health
Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis that occurs when the flexible connective tissues located between joints begin to wear out and lose their strength and elasticity. Osteoarthritis is a very painful progressive ailment for which there is no cure. Treatment focuses on symptom relief.
Boswellia serrata can be used to treat osteoarthritis by alleviating the painful inflammation in the affected areas. Boswellia Serrata does more than relieve swelling. It has analgesic properties as well, meaning it can relieve pain. As it is not an NSAID it does not have the same risks as NSAIDs and it can be safely taken with other medications.
Boswellia Serrata: A Natural Anti-Inflammatory Agent
For hundreds, perhaps even thousands of years, Boswellia Serrata has been used successfully to treat numerous ailments that respond to anti inflammatory agents. At one time it had the same value as gold and was traded across continents as a precious commodity revered by those who used it.
Today we know more about its unique medicinal properties and can benefit from it as our ancient ancestors did. It is natural, well tolerated on the system and because it is not an NSAID, it does not carry the same risks as that class of analgesics.
Boswellia Serrata can be used in conjunction with other medications. If you are looking for a gentle, natural and organic treatment for your inflammatory condition give Boswellia Serrata extract a try. You may find this historical herb to be exactly what you needed without all of the cumbersome side effects of pharmaceutical drugs. As with all new medications, consult a physician before taking Boswellia Serrata to ensure that it is the right choice for you.
Get the Relief You Need from Boswellia Serrata Supplements
Science is finally being able to catch up with what many cultures have known for ages. Old wives tales are being found to be true and doctors are beginning to understand that a natural and homeopathic approach to wellness is vital. The more that we can learn from the world around us, the more that we can apply this knowledge into healthy solutions for mankind – now.
Boswellia Serrata supplements and creams are one of the breakthroughs that continue to show promising results. Why live with suffering if you don’t have to? Boswellia Serrata extracts can give you the relief you need, while easing your worries about using non-natural methods. Try some today for yourself and see the difference.
*This article is not an alternative to medical advice. Always consult a physician before considering a new medication of any kind and discuss your interest in Boswellia Serrata extract with them.