The Boswellia herb is also known as Frankincense, Dhup, Indian olibanum, Mastic, Olibanum, and Salai gugal.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION
Boswellia is a moderate to large branching tree found in the dry hilly areas of India. It is one of the most ancient and respected herbs in ayurvedic healing.
When the trunk of the tree is tapped, a gummy oleoresin is exuded. A purified extract of this resin is used in today’s modern herbal preparations.
Boswellia, also known as Frankincense, contains an extract with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This extract has been used in India for centuries to soothe the inflammation that is associated with certain types of arthritis.
The most exciting information about Boswellia herb is that it does not produce the stomach irritation that the traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID’s) meds do. The very reason I chose to use herbs to treat my son’s arthritis.
The amazing effects of this herb can also benefit other inflammatory diseases. It especially helps with chronic lower back pain and helps to repair blood vessels damaged by inflammation.
The essential oil of Boswellia is used for incense, in perfumery, soap making, and cosmetics as a fixture and fragrance. The essential oil is a gentle “balancer” for oily skin, helps to regenerate ageing skin, keeps wrinkles at bay, and possibly smooths out some existing ones!
Boswellia herb is available in tablet, capsule and cream form, but oral forms seem to work better. It is available as an extract and will be labeled for its content of boswellin.
Boswellin is also sold as a cream for arthritis pain relief.
Parts used: Gum resin
Collection: The trunk of the tree is tapped or incisions made in the bark to extract the gummy resin. It is collected after being allowed to harden in the open air for about three weeks.