Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is a genus of trees belonging to the Burseraceae family. Native to the tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Arabian Peninsula, Boswellia trees are renowned for producing aromatic resins that have been used for various purposes for centuries.
The resin obtained from the Boswellia trees, commonly known as frankincense, exudes from the bark when the tree is injured or incised. It is traditionally harvested by making deep cuts into the trunk and allowing the milky white resin to ooze out and harden into gum-like droplets. These droplets are then collected, cleaned, sorted, and processed for commercial use.
In ancient times, boswellia was highly valued for its fragrant scent and was commonly burned as incense during religious and spiritual ceremonies. Besides its aromatic properties, boswellia also possesses medicinal qualities. It has been used in traditional systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiarthritic effects.
Modern research has shown that boswellia resins contain bioactive compounds called boswellic acids, which are responsible for its therapeutic properties. These acids have been studied for their potential to alleviate symptoms of various inflammatory conditions, such as osteoarthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Today, boswellia is widely available as a dietary supplement and in various forms, including capsules, extracts, and essential oils. It is sought after not only for its fragrance but also for its potential health benefits, making it a popular natural remedy used to support joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote general well-being.
