Shallaki (शलाकी). Boswellia  (Boswellia serrata)

Boswellia extract is derived from the resin of Boswellia serrata, traditionally used in Ayurveda. Key bioactives include boswellic acids—especially AKBA (acetyl‑11‑keto‑β‑boswellic acid)—which exhibit potent anti-inflammatory effects, notably via inhibition of the 5‑lipoxygenase pathway

Boswellia extract shows real promise as a natural anti-inflammatory and joint-supportive botanical, with supportive data in osteoarthritis, RA, mild asthma, metabolic health, and some gastrointestinal conditions. However, more high-quality, larger-scale clinical trials are needed to fully validate its broader uses. Mild side effects are common; long-term use should be monitored, particularly in individuals with kidney, liver, or cardiovascular concerns.

✅ Common Uses & Potential Benefits

🧠 1. Joint Health & Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis: Multiple randomized trials show Boswellia extract improves pain, stiffness, and physical function. In one crossover study, users reported less knee pain, better flexion, and longer walking distance after 8 weeks treatment compared to placebo

• A 2020 meta-analysis of seven RCTs (545 patients) confirmed significant reductions in pain (VAS & WOMAC scores) and improved joint mobility versus controls, with good safety across ≥4-week use

• Rheumatoid arthritis: Anecdotal and small studies indicate reduced swelling, stiffness, and cartilage protection via immune modulation and enzyme inhibition

🌬️ 2. Respiratory Support (Asthma)

• Early human research, including a 1998 placebo-controlled trial, showed Boswellia supplementation reduced asthma-related bronchoconstriction, likely via inhibition of leukotriene pathways 

🧬 3. Inflammatory Bowel Conditions

• Clinical and preclinical studies suggest benefit in ulcerative colitis, collagenous colitis, Crohn’s disease, and IBD—Boswellia may reduce mucosal inflammation, ulceration, and immune cell infiltration Restorative Medicine.

❤️ 4. Cardiometabolic & Glycemic Support

• A recent meta-analysis identified improved HbA1c, lowered total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides in patients with type 2 diabetes using Boswellia, suggesting risk‑reduction potential for cardiovascular complications

• Preclinical models also showed anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti‑atherogenic effects protecting liver and vascular tissues

🦷 5. Antimicrobial & Oral Health Potential

• In vitro research demonstrates Boswellia extract inhibited growth and biofilm formation of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a key pathogen in periodontitis, suggesting oral health benefits 

🧪 6. Anti‑Cancer & Neuroprotective Effects (Early Evidence)

• Animal studies and preliminary data show Boswellia may help mitigate cancer metastasis, reduce cerebral edema post-radiotherapy, attenuate ischemic brain injury, and protect liver/pancreatic tissue via antioxidative and anti-inflammatory pathways