For a long time, it has been traditional in Asia and Africa to use Boswellia extract to treat some chronic inflammatory conditions.
Inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints of the body are hallmarks of arthritis. It's treatable with the right combination of medicine, a balanced diet, and frequent physical activity. NSAIDs and DMARDs are the most often prescribed medications to treat this condition, although there are a number of other therapy alternatives.
Boswellia is one of these non-conventional medicines. As a treatment for arthritis, Boswellia plant extract has been shown to be extremely effective. Northern Africa, the Middle East, and India are home to the Boswellia tree, which may be found growing in arid mountainous terrain It is well-known in folk medicines for its anti-inflammatory properties. There are about 25 known species of Boswellia. Out of this, Boswellia serrata is well known for its medicinal properties.
The resin of Boswellia contains the plant's therapeutic characteristics. Monoterpenes, di- and triterpenes, tetracyclic triterpenic acid, and four primary pentacyclic triterpenic acids are all found in the resin of the plant. These include beta-Boswellian acid, acetyl-beta-Boswellian acid, acetyl-11-keti-beta-Boswellian acid, and 11-keto-beto-Boswellian acid.
These Boswellian acids have been shown to block the formation of pro-inflammatory enzymes like 5-Lipoxygenase in animal models, according to research. The most powerful inhibitor of 5-Lipoxygenase is 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-beta-Boswellian acid (AKBA).
However, why is 5-Lipoxygenase so important in this activity?
It is this chemical, 5-Lipoxygenase, that causes a chain reaction in humans. Cell adhesion, migration of inflammation-causing cells to the site of inflammation, and stimulation of free radical generation are a few examples. As a consequence, the body's inflammatory reaction is activated. As a result, 5-Lipoxygenase inhibition facilitates the reduction of the patient's arthritis pain and decrease in swelling.
Boswellia extract has recently been the subject of research into its potential use in the treatment of arthritis sufferers. Studies on individuals with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis have shown highly positive outcomes.
NSAIDs are known to disrupt glycosaminoglycan synthesis which in turn leads to accelerated articular damage in patients. Boswellinic acid, on the contrary, reduces glycosaminoglycan degradation significantly thus protecting against articular damage.
As a result, people with arthritis may benefit from using Boswellia herbal preparations.