What is Boswellia Complex?: Uses, Side Effects, and Where to Buy
Boswellia Complex: once as prized as gold and ivory, the medicinal use of this valuable tree resin dates all the way back to the ancient Egyptians. In modern times, boswellia is used to reduce arthritis pain, joint pain, back pain, tendonitis, and a range of other inflammatory conditions. But is this natural anti-inflammatory supplement right for you?
What is Boswellia Complex?
Boswellia Complex is a supplement derived from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree native to parts of India, Africa, and the Middle East. Also known as Indian frankincense, boswellia has been used for thousands of years by civilizations as diverse as the Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Babylonians, and Greeks. Today, the largest producer of boswellia is India, where this potent herb is used as a traditional Ayurvedic medicine.
The earliest account of boswellia’s use as a medication can be traced back to the Ebers papyrus (circa 1500 BCE), where it is described as a treatment for wounds and skin ulcers. While today we might be more familiar with frankincense as an incense or perfume, its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties have garnered increased attention in the last few decades.
The secret is in boswellia’s active component, boswellic acid. A powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, boswellic acid inhibits certain enzymes that cause inflammation and swelling. Because of its ability to interrupt the body’s inflammation-pain reaction, many people consider boswellia a natural alternative to over the counter painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin.
Boswellia Complex Uses
Boswellia Complex has a number of well-documented uses.
Osteoarthritis
Boswellia can be used to relieve the joint pain associated with osteoarthritis. A 2003 study found that subjects suffering from osteoarthritis knee pain reported less pain, as well as better mobility and an improvement in how far they could walk.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks its own tissues, resulting in chronic inflammation and pain in the joints. As with the symptoms of osteoarthritis, boswellia can be used to help alleviate swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joints.
Joint Pain
Age, exercise, and other factors such as oxidative stress can lead to chronic inflammation and pain in the joints. As a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, boswellia complex helps interrupt the processes behind the body’s inflammatory pathways for natural pain relief.
Healthy Circulation
Boswellia has been shown to boost circulation, especially in joint tissue. As a result, boswellia supplementation can help preserve cartilage and joint mobility as we age, as well as inhibit inflammatory processes that restrict blood flow and breakdown crucial tissues.
Common Boswellia Side Effects
Common side effects of Boswellia Complex include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Itching
In rare cases, boswellia may trigger an allergic reaction. Symptoms of boswellia allergy include difficulty breathing, hives, and rashes.
Boswellia may also stimulate increased menstrual flow. Pregnant women should avoid boswellia as it has been shown to induce miscarriage.
Please talk to your doctor before adding any new supplement to your routine.
Where to buy Boswellia Complex
We offer MediHerb® Boswellia Complex, 40 tablets and MediHerb® Boswellia Complex, 120 tablets in our shop. MediHerb® Boswellia Complex is guaranteed to contain 277 mg of Boswellia gum oleoresin with at least 180mg of active boswellic acid. For increased anti-inflammatory action, MediHerb® Boswellia Complex also contains a powerful mixture of turmeric and ginger.
Frequently Asked Questions about Boswellia Complex:
What’s the difference between MediHerb® and Standard Process?
MediHerb® is a premium-quality herbal supplements brand that is the preferred choice among healthcare professionals. Standard Process is the exclusive U.S. distributor of MediHerb® products.
What are common drug interactions for boswellia?
Boswellia may increase bleeding risk for individuals who take anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. It may also interact with non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drug (NSAID) medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid taking boswellia as it may induce miscarriage.
Is boswellia legal in the United States?
Yes, boswellia is legal in the United States and available over the counter. Dosage may vary by product.
What are the ingredients for MediHerb® Boswellia Complex?
Each Serving Size (1 Tablet) contains: Calories 5, Calcium 37 mg, Boswellia gum oleoresin 7:1 extract 277 mg (from Boswellia serrata gum oleoresin 1.9 g, Containing boswellic acids 180 mg), Celery Seed fruit 6:1 extract 166.7 mg (from Apium graveolens fruit 1.0 g), Ginger rhizome 10:1 extract 30 mg (from Zingiber officinale rhizome 300 mg), Turmeric rhizome 25:1 extract 84.4 mg (from Curcuma longa rhizome 2.1 g, Containing curcuminoids 70.4 mg). Other Ingredients: Dibasic calcium phosphate dihydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, sodium starch glycolate, silicon dioxide, hypromellose and magnesium stearate.
