Performance
Boswellia (Frankincense)
Also known as: 5-Loxin, ApresFlex, Boswellia (Indian Frankincense), Boswellia serrata
Boswellia serrata extract, standardized to boswellic acids, is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine and has been studied for joint health and inflammatory support. Moderate clinical evidence supports its use for musculoskeletal comfort, though effect sizes are generally modest.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Primary uses
- Joint health
- Inflammation
- Mobility
- Joint inflammation
- Pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Systemic inflammation
- Gut inflammation
- Respiratory
- IBD support
- Anti-inflammatory
- Crohn's disease
How it works
- Inhibits 5-lipoxygenase
- Reduces leukotriene synthesis
- Protects cartilage
Dosage
- Typical range
- 150-400mg standardized extract
- Timing
- With meals
- With food
- Yes
- Duration
- 2-4 weeks for effects
- Special populations
- Joint issues, arthritis
Forms
- Capsule
- AKBA-enriched
- Standard extract
- Standardized to AKBA
- 5-Loxin or Akbamax
- Tablet· 70/100
- Powder· 70/100
- Standardized extract resin· 70/100
- CO2 extract· 70/100
- Resin· 70/100
- Standardized powder· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- GI upset
- Acid reflux
Contraindications
- None known
Products containing Boswellia (Frankincense)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Boswellia (Frankincense) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Good evidence for OA pain/function
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
Cited research for Boswellia (Frankincense)
Clinical studies referenced across Formulate guides that mention boswellia (frankincense). Each links to the full study page with PubMed source + the guides that cite it.
- Sengupta K, Krishnaraju AV, Vishal AA, et al. (2010)International Journal of Medical Sciences
Comparative efficacy and tolerability of 5-LOXIN and AflapinAgainst osteoarthritis of the knee: a double blind, randomized, placebo controlled clinical study
- Kimmatkar N, Thawani V, Hingorani L, Khiyani R (2003)Phytomedicine
Effects of Boswellia serrata gum resin in patients with osteoarthritis of knee
Boswellia (Frankincense) compared head-to-head
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.