Names & Classification
- Botanical Name
- Boswellia serrata
- Sanskrit Name
- Shallaki
- English Name(s)
- Boswellia / Indian Frankincense
- Family
- Purceraceae
- Part Used
- Oleo-gum resin
About This Herb
Boswellia resin, also known as Indian Frankincense, has been treasured for centuries for its powerful ability to soothe joint discomfort and support comfortable movement. Modern science has confirmed what Ayurvedic practitioners have long known â it works differently from common pain relievers and is gentler on the stomach.
Where It Grows
Native to India, particularly found in the Himalayan foothills and central India. Also cultivated in some regions of the Middle East. Grows best in arid and semi-arid regions with dry tropical deciduous forest habitats. Requires warm climates with annual rainfall between 500-1000 mm. Predominantly cultivated in Rajasthan and adjacent regions of India.
Ayurvedic Profile
Used in Ayurveda as a premier anti-inflammatory resin. Shallaki is classified as Vedanasthapana (pain-relieving) and Shothaghna (anti-edema). The gum resin has been used since the Vedic period both medicinally and as sacred incense. Classical texts prescribe it for Sandhivata (joint disorders), Shotha (swelling), and Vrana (wounds). Rasa: Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent), Madhura (Sweet). Virya: Sheeta (Cooling). Vipaka: Katu (Pungent). Dosha: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha.
Key Benefits
Joint comfort, mobility support, anti-inflammatory action, cartilage protection
Research & Studies
The following research highlights scientific validation of traditional uses:
Efficacy and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract in treatment of osteoarthritis of knee--a randomized double blind placebo controlled trial
Authors: Kimmatkar N, Thawani V, Hingorani L, Khiyani R
Journal: Phytomedicine (2003)
8-week crossover trial in 30 osteoarthritis patients receiving 333 mg Boswellia serrata extract three times daily containing 40% boswellic acids showed significant decreases in knee pain, increased knee flexion, and increased walking distance with good tolerability.
The anti-proliferative effects of a frankincense extract in a window of opportunity phase Ia clinical trial for patients with breast cancer
Authors: MUSC Hollings Cancer Center researchers
Journal: Breast Cancer Research and Treatment (2024)
Phase Ia trial in breast cancer patients treated preoperatively with Boswellia serrata (2400 mg/day) for median 11 days showed a statistically significant 13.8% reduction in tumor cell proliferation compared to control group.
Frankincense: systematic review
Authors: Traditional medicine review consortium
Journal: PLOS Medicine (2008)
Systematic review of seven clinical trials involving 545 osteoarthritis patients found Boswellia extracts significantly more effective than placebo, ibuprofen, or glucosamine sulfate in relieving pain and improving joint function.
Efficacy of Boswellia serrata Extract and/or an Omega-3-Based Product for Improving Pain and Function in People Older Than 40 Years with Persistent Knee Pain
Authors: Multi-center clinical research team
Journal: Nutrients (2023)
Randomized double-blind controlled clinical trial demonstrating Boswellia serrata extract significantly improved pain and functional capacity in older adults with chronic knee pain.
Boswellia Serrata, A Potential Antiinflammatory Agent: An Overview
Authors: Pharmacology review team
Journal: Planta Medica (2011)
Comprehensive review documenting that boswellic acids suppress 5-lipoxygenase, reducing inflammatory responses and showing clinical effectiveness in asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and collagenous colitis.
Products Containing Boswellia / Indian Frankincense
- Arth Support (Capsule)
- Boswellia (Capsule)
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have pre-existing health conditions.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.