Boswellia serrata

Silver· human data

Also known as: Indian frankincense, Boswellic acid

An anti-inflammatory resin with reasonably encouraging osteoarthritis data.

Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) yields boswellic acids that inhibit inflammatory enzymes, which is the basis for its use in joint conditions.

Among herbal joint options it has some of the more encouraging human data: several trials report reduced pain and improved function in knee osteoarthritis, often within weeks, with standardised extracts. Generally well tolerated, though product standardisation varies.

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Written and reviewed by Mathew Beale, MSc Biotechnology, University of Reading.

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