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What is Boswellia?

Brendan McGuigan
Brendan McGuigan

Boswellia is a genus of trees containing a number of species. Boswellia is most well-known for producing an aromatic resin which can be used to make frankincense. The trees also have a number of medical uses, and are often prescribed by herbalists as an anti-inflammatory.

Most frankincense is graded based on the quality of the resin obtained from the Boswellia. Resin quality is largely determined by when it is harvested, but a great deal of sorting and culling takes place as well, to make sure the grades are correct. Occasionally Westerners and the dealers from the Middle East will differ on the actual quality ranking of different grades. This may be due to local differences in taste, but is likely more often a result of the way different frankincense smells in different temperatures and humidity levels. What might smell best in the dry and hot climate of the Middle East does not necessarily smell best in the wet and cold of England.

Doctors from India often prescribed Boswellia for ringworm.
Doctors from India often prescribed Boswellia for ringworm.

The resin of Boswellia is obtained by scraping the bark of the tree and letting the resin ooze out and harden on the tree. The hard lumps that are created are called tears, and the tears are collected, with the earlier tears producing lower-quality frankincense, and the latest tears producing higher-quality frankincense. Most trees will be tapped two or three times a year, and by the third tapping the tears of the Boswellia are extremely high in the various aromatics that make frankincense so prized.

Boswellia resin is used to make frankincense.
Boswellia resin is used to make frankincense.

A special grade of frankincense comes from trees that have endured the most extreme hardship. Boswellia have hardy and deep roots, and so can survive on cliff-faces where most of the dirt has been blown away by violent storms. These trees seem to jut straight from the living rock, and it is thought that their hard lives confer healing powers through their tears.

Boswellia may be helpful in treating ulcers.
Boswellia may be helpful in treating ulcers.

One of the most widespread species of Boswellia is Arabian Frankincense, or Boswellia sacra. Most Arabian Frankincense comes from Yemen and Oman, and the two highest grades are known as Silver and Hojari. Hojari is generally thought to give off the best fragrances in colder climates, while silver is thought to be best in hot climates.

Frankincense has been used in religious rites for thousands of years. It is spoken of in the Old Testament of the Bible, and is perhaps most famous to Westerners as being one of the gifts given by the Magi to Mary and Joseph. The distinctive scent of Boswellia is a staple in many religious ceremonies to this day.

Breastfeeding mothers should avoid boswellia.
Breastfeeding mothers should avoid boswellia.

Historically, Boswellia has been used in Ayurvedic medicine in India for millennia. Indian doctors prescribed Boswellia for a wide range of ailments, including arthritis, dysentery, ringworm, diarrhea, and various pulmonary diseases. Boswellia has also been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine, ingested to assist in digestion. Recent studies have also shown that when burned, Boswellia may help reduce stress and depression.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Boswellia and where does it come from?

Boswellia may be used to treat arthritis.
Boswellia may be used to treat arthritis.

Boswellia, also known as Indian Frankincense, is a genus of trees known for their fragrant resin which has many medicinal uses. These trees are native to the arid regions of India, the Middle East, and North Africa. The resin is tapped from the trees in a sustainable manner, ensuring that they are not harmed in the process.

What are the health benefits of Boswellia?

Boswellia resin has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties. It's often used to treat conditions like arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. According to research, the active components, boswellic acids, can prevent the formation of leukotrienes, which cause inflammation (Planta Medica, 2006).

How is Boswellia used in traditional medicine?

In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, Boswellia has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. It's commonly used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to alleviate pain and improve mobility in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It's also used to support digestive health and respiratory function.

Can Boswellia be used topically?

Yes, Boswellia can be applied topically in the form of creams or ointments. When used on the skin, it can help reduce inflammation associated with conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Its soothing properties make it a popular ingredient in skincare products aimed at calming irritated skin.

Are there any side effects associated with Boswellia?

Boswellia is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, some individuals may experience side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.

Is Boswellia sustainable and how is it harvested?

Boswellia is harvested through a process called tapping, where incisions are made in the tree's bark to allow the resin to seep out. Harvesters then collect the resin once it has hardened. Sustainable harvesting practices are crucial to ensure the long-term health of the trees and the environment where they grow.

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    • Doctors from India often prescribed Boswellia for ringworm.
      By: schankz
      Doctors from India often prescribed Boswellia for ringworm.
    • Boswellia resin is used to make frankincense.
      By: Leah-Anne Thompson
      Boswellia resin is used to make frankincense.
    • Boswellia may be helpful in treating ulcers.
      By: rob3000
      Boswellia may be helpful in treating ulcers.
    • Breastfeeding mothers should avoid boswellia.
      By: doble.d
      Breastfeeding mothers should avoid boswellia.
    • Boswellia may be used to treat arthritis.
      By: Fenton
      Boswellia may be used to treat arthritis.