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.
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
Evidence notes
Good evidence for OA pain/function
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
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