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Health Benefits of Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki) And Its Side Effects

Last Updated: Dec 14, 2022

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Boswellia Serrata is power packed plant that finds several uses in Ayurveda. It provides many benefits and shows some side effects too. Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki) helps to reduce inflammation and is useful for managing asthma and arthritis. Research reveals that this herb prevents the formation of leukotriene (inflammation-causing molecules) in the body and can be helpful in preventing breast cancer and leukemia. Boswellia serrata can also be used in different forms such as tablets, essential oil, and powder used to treat chronic health problems.

Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki)

Boswellia serrata, or Shallaki, is a tropical plant belonging to the genus Burseraceae. They are moderate sized flowering plants, both trees and shrubs. The plant produces fragrant resin, and is used to make frankincense. Boswellia is widely used in traditional medicine, and forms an important part of ayurvedic medicine.

According to research studies, Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki) is good anti-inflammator and acts as pain killer. It is also used to treat osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and even used in asthma problem.

Nutritional Value of Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki)

Boswellia is rich in phytochemicals and alkaloids. Beta boswellic acid is the main constitutent. It also contains other pentacyclic triterpene acids. These phytochemicals provide Botswellia with its health benefits, mostly in treatment of disorders.

Summary- Boswellia Serrata is a rich source of phytochemicals, alkaloids, acids, etc. It helps us to speed up the treatment process of different disorders.

Health Benefits of Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki)

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You can use Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki) or Indian frankincens for different health purposes. It is also used in different ayurveda treatment. Let check out some top health benefits of Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki). It is available in different form in market, you can buy boswellia serrata essential oil for skin care, or use boswellia serrata powder or capules to get these mentioned benefits. But, try to consult a general physician first before consuming it.

Boswellia serrata dosage for osteoarthritis

Boswellia has potent anti-inflammatory properties. It prevents swelling at joints, and prevents breakdown of cartilage, and is thus an effective remedy against osteoarthritis.

Summary- Boswellia is very good for patients suffering from osteoarthritis. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties which protect joints from swelling.

Boswellia serrata dosage for rheumatoid arthritis

Boswellia is said to interfere with autoimmune response of the body. Combined with anti-inflammatory, this makes boswellia an effective treatment against rheumatoid arthritis.

Summary- Boswellia has the power to combat Rheumatoid Arthritis. It has several properties which protect against the disease.

Boswellia serrata for inflammatory bowel disease

Anti-inflammatory properties of boswellia makes it effective against various inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

Summary- Boswellia treats digestive issues, hence good for IBS too.

Shallaki promotes natural healing

Boswellia enhances the ability of the body to naturally heal external wounds and bruises, as well as internal wounds like hemorrhage.

Summary- Boswellia contains different therapeutic properties which support the body to heal naturally.

Boswellia serrata for asthma issue

Boswellia reduces leucotrienes which causes contraction of bronchial muscles, thus reducing the severity and onset of asthma and other bronchial inflammatory diseases. This also is effective in reducing coughing symptoms.

Summary- Consuming Boswellia also helps to tackle breathing disorders. It attacks and heals the root cause of these disorders.

Female reproductive health

Benefits have been observed in female reproductive health upon usage of boswellia. It promotes normal and comfortable menstruation, clears congestion in the uterus, and enhances circulation in reproductive organs.

Summary- Boswellia maintains female reproductive health. It regulates normal menstruation and blood circulation in reproductive organs.

Boswellia serrata extract for skincare

Boswellia reduces damage and destruction of connective tissues. This aids in maintaining healthy skin and preventing onset of wrinkles.

Summary- People use Boswellia extract for achieving healthy skin. It helps to rejuvenate the skin texture.

Shallaki acts as aphrodisiac

Boswellia may be used as a potent aphrodisiac to enhance sensual pleasure during sexual activities.

Summary- Boswellia is used for regulating libido as it has an aphrodisiac.

Boswellia serrata uses in cancer treatment

Boswellic acid is considered to act in a number of ways to inhibit cancer growth. It prevents some enzymes from acting upon genetic material. Research indicates that boswellia may be able to combat advanced breast cancer cells, and may limit the spread of malignant leukemia. It is also considered to be effective against pancreatic cancer cells.

Summary- Certain types of cancers can aslo be treated by Boswellia. It protects genetic materials from alteration.

Uses of Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki)

There are various uses of Boswellia. Some of them are-

  • Boswellia extract has been widely used as traditional medicine in the tropical countries of India and Africa.
  • Today they are widely used by different pharmaceutical companies to make alternative drugs in the form of pills, capsules, etc.
  • Boswellia extract has also been traditionally used to make frankincense, and the usage is still prevalent today.

Summary- Boswellia Serrata is used as traditional medicine, to make frankincense in some parts of the world.
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Side-Effects & Allergies of Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki)

Boswellia may have some adverse side effects on your health. Some of them are-

  • It stimulates blood flow in the uterus and pelvic regions, hence improper usage may adversely affect the menstrual cycle, and may even induce miscarriage in expecting mothers.
  • It may also induce nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, diarrhea, and skin rashes.
  • It may interfere with certain medications, including analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

Summary- Improper usage of Boswellia leads to some side effects like the irregulating menstrual cycle, vomiting, nausea, etc.

Cultivation of Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki)

Boswellia serrata is native to the Indian subcontinent, and some regions of Pakistan. Some species are native also to Africa. It is a predominantly tropical plant, and although the greatest species diversity is found in India and Africa, it has spread to tropical regions all over the world.

Summary- Boswellia Serrata originates from the Indian subcontinent and has several uses in Ayurveda. It has spread to almost all parts of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who should not take Boswellia serrata?

People suffering from certain disorders such as gastrointestinal issues should avoid Boswellia Serrata.

Does Boswellia damage the liver?

No, there is no evidence of Boswellia damaging the liver.

Can you take Boswellia every day?

Boswellia Serrata can be taken every day by adults.

What does Boswellia do to the brain?

Boswellia shows neuroprotective activities, hence it is beneficial for the brain.

References

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    Written ByDrx Hina FirdousPhD (Pharmacology) Pursuing, M.Pharma (Pharmacology), B.Pharma - Certificate in Nutrition and Child CarePharmacology
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    Reviewed ByDt. Ms. Shilpa MarwahB.Sc (Home Science), Post Graduation Diploma in Dietetics and Public Health NutritionDietitian/Nutritionist
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