Boswellia for Inflammation and Joint Pain

Boswellia Serrata has been a trusted herbal remedy for thousands of years. It has been used in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Middle Eastern medicine for many conditions, including joint pain, anxiety, and digestive problems.

Today, Boswellia is widely used by fitness and health enthusiasts, as its anti-inflammatory properties dramatically help reduce sore muscles. When combined with ginger or another anti-inflammatory agent like turmeric, both compounds increase in effectiveness, resulting in powerful soothing effects.

Those experiencing joint pain from overuse, injury, or arthritis commonly seek out Boswellia, as it naturally reduces inflammation in the body. 

How Does Boswellia Work?

Boswellia contains boswellic acid and pentacyclic triterpenoids, both potent anti-inflammatory compounds. One of the primary uses of Boswellia is found in a topical solution for inflammatory skin conditions. It is believed to block both COX-2 and HSP-70. HSP-70 is an enzyme that controls collagen production and is essential for repairing connective tissue. COX-2 is responsible for producing pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to injury. 

Boswellic Acid

The primary active ingredient in Boswellia is boswellic acid, a type of natural polyphenol. Boswellic acid has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years, helping relieve pain, fight cancer, and boost the immune system with its anti-inflammatory properties. 

Boswellia For Joint Health

There have been several studies that support using Boswellia for joint health. Most of these studies have been on animals, but there have also been human studies. 

Boswellia has been shown to improve cartilage health in the body; cartilage is the slippery, smooth tissue that lines the joints and serves as a cushion. This effect helps reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, making Boswellia an excellent choice for arthritis management. In addition, Boswellia may also help improve blood circulation in the area around the joint, which can promote overall healing. 

How To Use Boswellia For Joint Pain

For best results, you want to ensure you are taking enough Boswellia to make an impact. Most studies recommend anywhere from 300 mg to 1,200 mg per day. You can get Boswellia as a stand-alone supplement or as part of a joint formula. 

For the best results, take Boswellia with food; as Boswellia is fat soluble, it works best when taken with a fat-containing meal. Since Boswellia can cause gastrointestinal upset, you may want to start with a lower dosage and work your way up. Take it with a meal containing fat to minimize any potential side effects. 

The Science Behind Boswellia

Joint pain is a symptom of inflammation. When the joints become inflamed, it causes the surrounding tissue to swell up and become tender. This inflammation inhibits mobility, which is crucial for regaining movement and reducing pain.

Boswellia has been shown to help the inflammation surrounding the joints and the nearby tissue by reducing the swelling and inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme. Moreover, Boswellia can stop the degradation of cartilage in the joints and prevent the progression of osteoarthritis.

At least one study has suggested that Boswellia has anti-oxidant properties, potentially limiting the damage done over time to the joints.

Side Effects of Boswellia

Boswellia may have some side effects, mainly if used in high doses. These include nausea, diarrhea, and headaches. It is an anti-inflammatory and can stop blood from clotting, so if you take other conflicting medicines, you should talk to a doctor before taking it. 

How to Make Boswellia Tea

In addition to taking it as a supplement, you can also make a nutritious tea from it. 

Making this tea is easy, and you only need a few ingredients:,

• Boswellia root powder
• 1 cup of water
• Honey or stevia

Heat the water, add the root powder and honey or stevia, steep for 5 minutes, and enjoy!

Additional Benefits

Boswellia also has anti-cancer properties and has been found to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it an excellent option for those with joint pain or arthritis. Boswellia can also improve blood flow, which makes it a good option for those with poor circulation. 

It can also help with anxiety, making it an excellent option for those struggling with stress management.

Conclusion

Boswellia has been used for thousands of years as an herbal remedy. It has been used in Ayurvedic, Chinese, and Middle Eastern medicine for many conditions, including joint pain, anxiety, and digestive problems.