Boswellia is an herbal extract made from the bark of the Boswellia tree, also known as frankincense. The resin of the Boswellia tree is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat arthritis, ulcerative colitis, coughs, sores, wound healing, and asthma. Boswellia serrata is a tree native to India, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula, and it contains chemicals that might decrease swelling and increase the bodys immune response. Boswellia resin is available in supplemental forms to support joint health, and it can be taken orally in a capsule, pill, or tablet, or used as an oil that can be applied to the body. Some potential uses and benefits of Boswellia include:

• Treating arthritis
• Helping with asthma
• Treating colitis (inflammation of the colon)
• Helping with inflammation (swelling and redness)
• Helping reduce fluid cerebral edema (brain swelling) after radiotherapy, in patients with brain tumors
• Helping reduce skin damage due to radiotherapy, in breast cancer patients

Boswellia is also believed to have anti-cancer properties, and studies have found that it may fight advanced breast cancer cells, limit the spread of malignant leukemia and brain tumor cells, and suppress the invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. However, more research is needed to fully understand the anti-cancer activity of Boswellia. Boswellia products can differ greatly, so it is important to follow the manufacturers instructions and speak to a healthcare provider before taking Boswellia or any other supplement.