How effective is boswellia extract in improving osteoarthritis?
Boswellia extract, also known as Indian frankincense, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. In recent years, it has gained attention as a potential treatment for osteoarthritis, a common joint disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. But just how effective is boswellia extract in improving osteoarthritis?
Several studies have investigated the use of boswellia extract in osteoarthritis patients, with mixed results. Some studies have found that boswellia extract boswellic acid can reduce pain and improve joint function in people with osteoarthritis. For example, a 2008 study published in the journal Arthritis Research & Therapy found that a specific boswellia extract called 5-Loxin was effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in osteoarthritis patients. Another study published in the journal Phytomedicine in 2010 found that boswellia extract was as effective as the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) valdecoxib in reducing pain and improving knee function in people with osteoarthritis.
However, not all studies have found positive results. A 2011 study published in the journal Rheumatology International found that boswellia extract was no more effective than a placebo in reducing pain and improving joint function in people with knee osteoarthritis. Similarly, a 2014 study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine found that boswellia extract was not effective in reducing pain or improving physical function in people with knee osteoarthritis.
One potential explanation for these mixed results is that different types of boswellia extract may have different effects. For example, the 5-Loxin extract used in the 2008 study mentioned earlier is a standardized extract that contains a specific compound called AKBA, which is thought to be responsible for its anti-inflammatory effects. Other extracts may not contain as much AKBA or may contain other compounds that have different effects.
Another potential explanation is that boswellia extract may not work for everyone with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a complex disorder with many different factors that contribute to its development and progression. Boswellia extract may be more effective for some people than others depending on their individual circumstances.
Overall, the evidence suggests that boswellia extract may be effective in improving osteoarthritis symptoms for some people, but not all. If you are considering using boswellia extract for osteoarthritis, it is important to talk to your doctor first to determine if it is safe and appropriate for you. Your doctor can also help you determine the best dose and form of boswellia extract to use based on your individual needs and circumstances.
