Boswellia

Active compounds

Boswellic acids (especially AKBA — acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid)

Pharmacology

Anti-inflammatory action via inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase, the enzyme that produces leukotrienes — the same inflammatory mediators that asthma controller drugs (montelukast) target. Multiple small clinical trials suggest modest improvement in lung function and symptom scores in mild-to-moderate asthma when used as adjunct therapy.

General dosage

Standardized extract (>=30%% boswellic acids, >=10%% AKBA): 300-400 mg, 3 times daily.

Safety notes

Generally well-tolerated; mild GI upset possible.

How traditions use Boswellia

• Boswellia serrata for asthma (Western Herbalism / Functional Medicine) — Western Herbalism