Boswellia Serrata, also known as Shallaki in Sanskrit, is a popular herb belonging to the genus Burseraceae used for treatment of inflammatory illnesses and other health conditions. Shallaki has been used traditionally for over centuries and is considered to be an important part of Ayurveda. Commonly found in tropical regions of the Indian subcontinent, boswellia consists of substances that may help in reducing inflammation and increasing immune response of the body.
How does boswellia work?
Research has shown that this herb helps in inhibiting the formation of inflammation-causing molecules called leukotriene in the body. The boswellia extract or resin has 4 acids, out of which Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) is considered to be most prominent. These are responsible for giving this herb its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes shallaki an effective medicine for treating inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, bronchial asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Boswellia Serrata Benefits and Uses
Due to the several health benefits of shallaki, it is extensively used in formulation of various medicines by pharmaceutical companies and in ayurvedic treatments. It is available in different forms such as essential massage oil, powder, capsule or tablet. The boswellia serrata extract has multidimensional and anti-inflammatory properties which makes it an important part of modern medicine. It helps in treating a wide range of conditions and helps in boosting the immune system of the body.
1. Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA is characterised by inflammation around joints and the body’s immune system attacking its own tissue, including joints. The anti-inflammatory properties of boswellia coupled with its interference with the autoimmune response of the body, makes it effective in treating RA. It gives relief from pain and swelling caused due to RA and helps in lessening the symptoms.
Refer to article – Natural Supplements for arthritis and Joint Pain
https://www.thelifekart.in/natural-supplements-for-arthritis-and-joint-pain/
2. Osteoarthritis
It is a type of arthritis in which the protective cartilage at the ends of the bones gradually wears down and worsen over time. Shallaki benefits by reducing the wearing down of the cartilage, inflammation and pain and improving the mobility function of joints, which increases physical activity.
Refer to article – How are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis different
https://www.thelifekart.in/how-are-rheumatoid-arthritis-and-osteoarthritis-different/
3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
IBD is an umbrella term that is used for conditions that involve inflammation of the digestive tract. Boswellia serrata is potent in treating inflammatory gastrointestinal tract disorders such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease due to its anti-inflammatory properties which helps in reducing the inflammation of intestines and its symptoms.
4. Asthma
Boswellia reduces leukotrienes, molecules which lead to contraction of bronchial muscles. Shallaki also helps in obstructing the allergic response that triggers an asthma reaction in the first place. It controls symptoms of asthma and sudden attacks and helps by giving relief in case of breathlessness. Furthermore, it rescues chest congestion and clear cough, thus helping the body to combat respiratory problems.
5. Female Reproductive Health
Studies suggest that shallaki can aid in improving female reproductive health. The herb helps in clearing congestion in the uterus, provides comfort in menstrual pain, and boosts circulation in the female reproductive organs.
6. Cancer
Boswellic acid is believed to have antitumor properties that may prevent growth of cancerous cells. It inhibits certain enzymes to act on the DNA in the body. Studies have shown that it may be able to fight advanced stage breast cancer and control the spread of malignant leukaemia. Researchers also suggest that it can be an effective treatment for cancer in future, although clinical trials are imperative to support this claim.
7. Skin Health
Boswellia serrata is a magical herb which helps in rejuvenating the skin cells and helps in healing damaged connective tissues. Regular use of the herb can help prevent wrinkles and other signs of ageing thus, offering a naturally glowing, healthy and radiant skin. Additionally, it also reduces the damage caused to skin due to the radiation treatment for cancer.
Boswellia serrata and its benefits have a long history in treating several conditions and serve a gamut of health benefits. It is an anti-inflammatory agent and shown promise in treatment of a variety of aforementioned inflammatory disorders in the body.
Lifekart’s Joint Pain Relief Kit
The Joint Pain Relief Kit by Lifekart is a one-of-its-kind concoction of ingredients such as Boswellia extract, AKBA, and Piperine, all of which helps in relieving discomfort caused due to Rheumatoid arthritis. It is a natural remedy to reduce joint pain and inflammation and to improve joint mobility and immunity. It is a perfect medicine for anybody who is looking to manage the pain and symptoms of RA without any side-effects.
