|
Boswellia
Boswellia refers to the gummy resin extracted from the Boswellia tree, or as
it is known by its botanical name Boswellia serrata, which is used in alternative
herbal medical treatment. Also know as Salai guggal, Boswellin, and Indian Frankincense,
the Boswellia tree is native to the dry, hilly areas of India. Used for centuries
in traditional Indian medicine, Boswellia has become a popular herbal substance
against osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
The Boswellia tree is a moderate to large branching tree that can grow to a
height of 12 feet and a girth of three to four feet. The collection of Boswellia,
or the gum resin of the Boswellia tree, is usually carried out towards the end
of October. A six to eight inch portion of stem bark is scraped away which allows
a gummy oleoresin, or Boswellia, to exude. This resin is collected for the next
ten to 12 days and a purified extract of Boswellia resin is used in herbal medications.
Grouped historically in ancient Indian Ayurvedic (science of life) medical
texts with other gum resins in a category called guggals, Boswellia has been
recommended by Ayurvedic physicians for centuries for medical conditions that
include: bursitis, diarrhea, dysentery, osteoarthritis, pulmonary disease, respiratory
disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and ringworm. Currently, Boswellia is used in
the treatment of bursitis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. In the
treatment of rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, medical research
conducted in India found Boswellia a more appealing treatment than Ketoprofen,
the most commonly used drug in such conditions. Boswellia was found to be more
potent and less toxic than Ketoprofen. Due to the presence of boswellin and
boswellic acid, Boswellia contains anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic
properties. It is believed that boswellic acid effects inflamed areas by suppressing
the proliferating tissue and preventing the breakdown of connective tissue.
Boswellia has an advantage over other anti-inflammatory drugs that are used
in arthritic treatment as it contains none of the ulcer causing side effects
that other anti-inflammatory drugs have. Additionally, it is believed that Boswellia
improves blood supply to the joints.
The recommended dosage of Boswellia in the case of rheumatoid arthritis or
osteoarthritis is 150 mg taken three times per day. Treatment using Boswellia
usually lasts eight to twelve weeks. Children and individuals with weakened
immune systems should not use Boswellia. Additionally, women who are pregnant
or are nursing should exorcise caution when using Boswellia. Although there
are no significant side effects associated with Boswellia, there have been instances
where its use has caused diarrhea, heartburn, nausea, and skin rash. Additionally,
there is a possibility that Boswellia may increase or decrease the effects of
medication.
|
