Frankincense Extract
Also known as: Boswellia carterii, Frankincense, Olibanum, Boswellia serrata
Overview
Frankincense is a resin extracted from the Boswellia tree, primarily found in India and the Middle East, and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is classified as an herbal extract, traditionally valued for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Its primary uses include addressing conditions like arthritis, asthma, and gastrointestinal issues. The main active compounds responsible for its therapeutic effects are boswellic acids, which exert anti-inflammatory actions by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase. While the evidence for frankincense is promising, it is not yet considered compelling due to a limited number of large-scale studies. Systematic reviews indicate effectiveness in several inflammatory conditions, but often highlight small sample sizes and methodological limitations in the existing research.
Benefits
Frankincense extracts, particularly from *Boswellia serrata*, have shown efficacy in reducing inflammation and pain, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A systematic review found that *Boswellia serrata* extracts were effective in treating osteoarthritis, leading to improvements in pain and function. There is also supporting evidence for its use in asthma, Crohn's disease, and collagenous colitis, though these areas require further research. Frankincense may be particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from inflammatory conditions. While some studies report significant improvements, the overall effect sizes are not consistently documented across all conditions. The onset of benefits can vary, but improvements are generally observed within weeks of consistent treatment.
How it works
Frankincense primarily exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme crucial for the production of leukotrienes, which are potent mediators of inflammation. The active compounds, boswellic acids, are responsible for this mechanism. By modulating inflammatory responses, frankincense interacts with the immune system. It may also influence the nervous system due to its analgesic properties. The bioavailability of boswellic acids can vary, and further research is needed to fully understand their absorption dynamics within the body.
Side effects
Frankincense is generally considered safe, with most reported side effects being minor. The most common adverse effects, occurring in over 5% of users, include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. Uncommon (1-5%) and rare (<1%) side effects are not well-documented in the existing literature. There is a potential for interaction with other anti-inflammatory drugs, though specific studies detailing these interactions are currently lacking. Frankincense is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal issues, as they may be more susceptible to the potential digestive side effects.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of boswellic acids is typically around 300-400 mg per day. Optimal dosage ranges from 300-800 mg per day, with the specific amount depending on the condition being treated. Doses above 800 mg per day are not commonly studied, and a maximum safe dose has not been well-established. Frankincense is best taken with meals to help reduce potential gastrointestinal side effects. It is commonly available in capsule or tablet forms. The absorption and bioavailability of boswellic acids may be improved when taken with fatty meals. No specific cofactors are identified as being required for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is Frankincense safe to use?
Frankincense is generally considered safe, but it may cause gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea or nausea. Long-term safety and interactions with other medications require more research. Always consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are on other medications.
When is the best time to take Frankincense?
It is generally recommended to take frankincense with meals. This can help improve the absorption of its active compounds and may also reduce the likelihood of experiencing gastrointestinal side effects.
How long does it take to see benefits from Frankincense?
The time to observe benefits can vary depending on the condition being treated. However, improvements in inflammatory conditions are generally noted within a few weeks of consistent and appropriate use.
Can Frankincense cure inflammatory conditions?
Frankincense is not a cure-all for inflammatory conditions. While it can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation, it should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, not as a standalone cure.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2605614/ – This systematic review by Ernst (2008) analyzed seven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on *Boswellia serrata* extracts for various inflammatory conditions. It concluded that the extracts were clinically effective, though it noted variability in methodological quality and small sample sizes across the included studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19091760/ – This PubMed entry corresponds to the same systematic review by Ernst (2008) on *Boswellia serrata* extracts. The review found evidence for the clinical effectiveness of these extracts in inflammatory conditions, despite limitations in study design and sample size.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27117114/ – This study from 2016 highlighted the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of frankincense, emphasizing its potential in treating conditions such as rheumatism and asthma. It specifically underscored the crucial role of boswellic acids in inhibiting inflammatory pathways within the body.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/13/4174 – This 2022 review summarized recent research on frankincense compounds, focusing on their effects against microbial infections and inflammatory diseases. It highlighted the potential of frankincense to modulate immune responses, suggesting broader therapeutic applications beyond just inflammation.
