Boswellia sacra is a tree that grows in dry areas, and its resin is called frankincense (olibanum). The resin made from frankincense extract has been used in Asian and African folk medicine for centuries. It is believed to treat chronic inflammatory diseases as well as many other health conditions. Frankincense is available in resin, pill, or cream form.
The plant is widespread in tropical areas of Asia and Africa, and its resin is used in traditional medicine and religious rituals.
Features and uses
tree characteristics
Frankincense trees usually grow in poor soil, with branched trunks and gray or light brown bark. The leaves are pinnately compound, and the trees' flowers and fruits are inconspicuous.
Resin
The resin of the frankincense tree, known as frankincense, is a thick resin with a unique aroma and medicinal properties. Frankincense is collected and processed for medicinal, perfumery, and religious purposes.
medical purposes
Boswellia resin is used in traditional medicine as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic, often used to treat arthritis, rheumatism, and other inflammatory diseases. It contains active ingredients such as boswellic acid and boswellic acid, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-tumor effects.
Spices and religious uses
Frankincense resin is also used as a perfume and is often burned in incense burners to release a fragrant scent. Frankincense is used in prayers and sacrifices in some religious rituals and rituals, and is believed to purify the air and soul.
health benefits
Anti-inflammatory effect
Because frankincense is an effective pain reliever, it can relieve pain and prevent cartilage loss. Frankincense can interact with anti-inflammatory medications and reduce their effectiveness.
Research shows that frankincense can reduce inflammation and can be used to treat the following conditions:
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Many studies on the effects of frankincense on osteoarthritis show that it can be effective in treating the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis. A 2003 study published in the journal Phytomedicine found that 30 people with OA knee pain experienced a reduction in knee pain after being treated with frankincense. Another study funded by an incense manufacturing company found that increasing the dose of aromatic extracts improved physical health. Knee pain caused by osteoarthritis was reduced after 90 days of using frankincense products compared to low doses and placebo.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Research on the effectiveness of frankincense in treating RA has been mixed. Some research suggests that frankincense may be effective in treating RA by interfering with autoimmune processes.
asthma
Frankincense helps reduce leukotrienes that cause bronchial congestion. A 1998 study conducted by Reliable Source on the effects of herbs on asthma found that people who took frankincense experienced a reduction in asthma symptoms and signs.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Because of the anti-inflammatory properties of this herb, frankincense is used to treat inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (UC). This suggests that taking frankincense may be effective in treating Crohn's disease. We are just beginning to understand how frankincense’s anti-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects can improve inflammatory gut health.
mechanism
Some studies show that boswellic acid inhibits the formation of leukotrienes in the body. The four acids contained in frankincense gum contribute to the herb’s anti-inflammatory properties. However, other studies suggest that other boswellic acids are responsible for the herb's anti-inflammatory properties. Frankincense products are classified according to their boswellic acid content.
Improve breathing
The aroma released when frankincense is burned is thought to help improve respiratory problems such as asthma and nasal congestion.
neuroprotection
Research shows that the active ingredients in frankincense resin may have neuroprotective effects and may be helpful in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
cancer
Studies have also shown that frankincense can fight breast cancer cells and slow the spread of leukemia and brain tumor cells. Another study showed that boswellic acid effectively blocks the invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. As research continues to deepen, people are increasingly aware of the anti-cancer activity of frankincense.
side effect
Frankincense stimulates blood flow to the uterus and pelvis. It can speed up menstruation in pregnant women and cause miscarriage. Other possible side effects of boswellia include: Boswellia extract may also interact with medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
generalize
While frankincense resin is widely used in traditional medicine and there are some studies supporting its medicinal value, more scientific research is needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness. Before using frankincense resin as a medicine or supplement, it is recommended to consult a doctor or health care professional, especially for pregnant and nursing women and those with serious medical conditions.
