Boswellia serrata, or Indian frankincense, is a resin pulled from the Boswellia tree. It supplies boswellic acids, compounds that calm the body’s inflammatory response. They do this mainly by blocking the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme.
People use it to ease stiff, achy joints and to stay mobile. Many reach for it when dealing with osteoarthritis and similar wear-and-tear issues. Others find it helpful for gut comfort, since it soothes inflammatory bowel pathways.
Take it with food to dodge stomach upset and to help your body take in the active compounds. Most supplements standardize the extract to a set percentage of boswellic acids. Watch for interactions if you take blood thinners, and use caution if you have GERD.