Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, comes from the fragrant resin of the Boswellia serrata tree. It grows in Punjab regions and is commonly known as Shallaki resin It has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine due to its anti-inflammatory properties. In Ayurvedic medicine, Boswellia also known as Salai guggul, holds significant importance due to its healing properties and has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.

In Ayurveda, Boswellia is a multi-purpose herb that addresses a wide range of physical, mental, and spiritual ailments. Whether it is used for its anti-inflammatory benefits, digestive support, or mental clarity, Boswellia plays a key role in maintaining holistic health and well-being.

Health Benefits:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Boswellia is particularly known for its ability to reduce inflammation, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) but with fewer side effects. It is effective in managing chronic inflammatory conditions like:

• Balancing the doshas: Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body’s three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—to maintain health. Boswellia is especially effective in balancing Vata and Kapha doshas, which are linked to joint and muscle inflammation.
• Treating arthritis and joint disorders: Due to its potent anti-inflammatory effects, Boswellia is frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat arthritis, joint pain, and other musculoskeletal disorders. It is often prescribed for conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis to reduce swelling, stiffness, and pain.
  • Osteoarthritis: Reduces joint pain and stiffness.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: Helps in managing pain and swelling.

2. Respiratory health: Management of Respiratory Conditions: In Ayurveda, Boswellia is used to treat respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and coughs. It is believed to clear the airways and reduce lung inflammation, making it easier to breathe. This makes it valuable for managing Kapha-related respiratory imbalances, where excess mucus and congestion are present.

3. Digestive health and detoxification:

• Improving Digestion and Reducing Inflammation: Boswellia is commonly used to support digestive health in Ayurveda. Its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the digestive tract, making it useful for treating inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Pitta-Pacifying Properties: Since Boswellia helps cool inflammation, it also pacifies Pitta, which is associated with heat and inflammation in the body, particularly in the digestive system. This makes it an effective treatment for acid reflux, gastritis, and other conditions caused by excess Pitta.

4. Wound healing and skin health:

• Healing Wounds and Skin Disorders: The resin of Boswellia is often used in Ayurvedic formulations for healing wounds, burns, and ulcers. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a go-to remedy for treating skin infections and promoting tissue regeneration.
• Promoting Youthful Skin: Boswellia is also used in Ayurvedic skincare routines due to its ability to prevent signs of aging, reduce wrinkles, and keep the skin smooth.

5. Mental and emotional wellbeing:

• Promoting mental clarity: In Ayurveda, Boswellia is sometimes used to enhance mental clarity and cognitive function. It is believed to help reduce Vata imbalances in the mind, which are linked to stress, anxiety, and overthinking.
• Spiritual uses: Boswellia is valued not only for its medicinal properties but also for its spiritual significance. The resin is often burned as incense during meditation and rituals to promote tranquility, clarity, and focus.

6. Anti-cancer and Anti-Aging properties:

• Rasayana (rejuvenate therapy): Boswellia is classified as a Rasayana herb in Ayurveda, meaning it helps rejuvenate and promote longevity. It supports the body’s ability to heal and regenerate, which is why it is also used in Ayurvedic anti-aging treatments.
• Potential anti-cancer properties: Although not a traditional application in ancient texts, modern Ayurvedic practices and studies have indicated that Boswellia may have potential anti-tumor effects, making it a part of some contemporary cancer treatment protocols.

7. Immune system support: Strengthening the Immune System: Boswellia is used to boost the immune system by reducing inflammation, which is seen as a major cause of disease in Ayurveda. By lowering chronic inflammation, Boswellia helps protect the body against infections and long-term illnesses.

Traditional ayurvedic uses of Boswellia:

• Formulations: Boswellia is often combined with other herbs, such as turmeric (to enhance its effects, especially for joint and digestive health. A popular formulation is Shallaki, a Boswellia-based Ayurvedic medicine for arthritis and joint disorders.
• Dosage forms: In Ayurveda, Boswellia is administered in several forms, including powder (churna), tablets, ointments, and oil for massage. The resin may also be used directly for fumigation or as incense during spiritual practices.

Spiritual and ritual use:

• Incense in rituals: The aromatic resin of Boswellia, frankincense, has been used in spiritual rituals to purify spaces, promote mental clarity, and foster a connection with the divine. This is deeply rooted in both Ayurvedic and other ancient practices.

How to use Boswellia:

1. Capsules or tablets: This is one of the most common forms of Boswellia supplements. You can find standardized extracts, typically containing 30-65% boswellic acids, which are the active ingredients.
2. Topical application: Boswellia can be found in creams or ointments to be applied directly to the skin to reduce inflammation and pain, especially in joints.
3. Essential oil: Boswellia essential oil can be inhaled for respiratory benefits or used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also be applied to the skin when diluted with a carrier oil.
4. Powder form: You can also find Boswellia powder, which can be mixed with water, juice, or smoothies.
5. Tea: Although less common, Boswellia can be brewed as tea by steeping the resin in hot water.

Precautions:

• Side effects: While Boswellia is safe, some people may experience digestive issues, such as nausea or acid reflux.
• Interactions: If you are on medication for inflammation, pain, or blood-thinning drugs, consult a healthcare provider before using Boswellia.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been thoroughly researched, so it is best to avoid it unless under a doctor’s supervision.

Image credit: By Scott Zona from USA – Boswellia sacra, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=5409339