Boswellia extract 65% | Boswellia serrata

Properties: Among many trees found in nature, the frankincense strongly stands out. This is not, however, due to the unique shape or size of its leaves. Mostly, it is popular due to its healthy properties. For centuries, the resin of this extraordinary tree has been applied as a painkiller or to support the organism during infection. It contains natural substances that help the immune system to deal with pathogens quickly and efficiently. Regular supplementation of boswellia stimulates the functioning of the immune cells and increases the number of lymphocytes. Altogether, it ensures the proper course of the immune reaction. 

What is more, frankincense can also be applied as a painkiller and a remedy to ailments of the motor system. The most effective analgesic effect is in the case of joint degeneration or chronic inflammation. Research evidence suggests that the resin of this plant helps to reduce the joint rigidity and limits the unpleasant feeling related with degeneration. On top of that, it protects the bones. Interestingly, the analgesic effect of frankincense can be noticed really fast – already after a few days of supplementation. 

Keep in mind that the extract of Boswellia serrata benefits the functioning of the cardiovascular system as it helps to maintain optimal cholesterol level in the organism. The active compounds found in the extract improve the condition of the liver too. Thereby, they stimulate the elimination of toxins from the organism and ensure the optimal glucose level in blood. 

Noteworthy, the supplementation of frankincense extract may also bring back inner peace. Studies of brain activity demonstrate that bioactive compounds of boswellia influence the neurotransmitters responsible for managing emotion. In this way, it becomes easier to maintain a positive mood and regulate unpleasant feelings.

Occurrence: Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata) is the tree from the Burseraceae family. It has a medium size and a highly branched crown. Naturally, it occurs in the tropical climate of India and Pakistan where it grows on the slopes and ridges of hills up to an altitude of 1150 m above sea level. It is resistant to drought and extremely high temperatures. The resin obtained from its trunk is the raw herbal material. 

The first mention of the healing properties of frankincense resin can be found in the ancient Egyptian papyrus of Ebers, dating back to 1500 BC. In Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine) and Unami (Persian) this resin has been used for millennia, mainly as a remedy to ailments related with arthritis. According to Ayurveda, where it is called shallaki, this is a substance with double energetics – both heating and cooling. The heating energy refers to the increase of blood circulation, whereas the cooling – to the reduction of the inflammation. Perhaps this is why the frankincense has often been used in rituals and meditations. The ancients believed that it was able to purify the body as well as the spirit.

Biochemistry: The resin of boswellia owes its properties primarily to boswellic acids. Chemically speaking, they are classified as the polycyclic triterpenes. In addition to them, the resin also contains: derivatives of boswellic acids, polysaccharides and essential oil, which mainly consists of monoterpene compounds (e.g. limonene).

Fun fact: The resin of boswellia was considered magical. In ancient India, Persia, Babylon, and Egypt it was a popular belief that its aroma and smoke purify the household by repelling malicious spirits and attracting the benevolent ones, thereby lighting up the souls of its inhabitants. For these reasons, it has often been used during rituals in monasteries and temples.