Boswellia for rheumatism, leaky gut and more

Boswellia is also sometimes known as frankincense. It comes from the small Boswellia Serrata tree which is found in parts of India, North Africa and several Arab countries. The resin, its main product, is harvested by making cuts in the trunk and collecting it. This resin is actually a pure form of frankincense, a product that was once very expensive.

 

Anti-inflammatory effect of Boswellia
Nowadays it is mainly used for its anti-inflammatory effect.

Boswellia has become very popular recently, but was known for centuries in traditional Indian medicine. Its anti-inflammatory effect is due to the various enzymes it contains. It also inhibits the formation of a substance called Tumor Necrosis factor Alpha (TNF-A), known in medical science as the major cause of rheumatic diseases.

 

Tumor Necrosis factor Alpha
TNF-A is mainly formed as an immune reaction in the blood when it comes into contact with foods which are not properly digested by the intestinal wall (we also call this leaky gut syndrome). The result of the formation of this substance causes many inflammatory processes throughout the body. Boswellia not only inhibits the formation of the TNF-A, but also the effects it has already caused. Likewise, it can help heal inflammation in the gut wall, helping to combat leaky gut syndrome.

 

The use of Boswellia
Because of its broad effect, Boswellia can be used in conditions such as: Rheumatism, Arthritis, irritated intestines, Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative colitis, tumors, nerve infections, sports injuries, type 2 diabetes, allergies and hay fever, vein infections, heart and blood vessel disease, hives, psoriasis and many others.

In some cases the Boswelia is also seen as an alternative to aspirin and steroids. However, it is always important to choose a quality supplement. Powdered forms of Boswellia in capsules can be difficult to absorb which is why some manufacturers offer it in liquid form dissolved in edible oil. Although it is more absorbable like that, Boswelia is now one of many supplements now also available in liposome form.

 

Boswellia as a supplement
Boswellia is at its most effective as a liposome because more than 95% of the supplement can be absorbed into the tissues. Liposome delivery has another advantage, it doesn’t cause the hypersensitivity in the stomach which some people experience. In fact, Boswellia can be quite heavy on the stomach, but because the liposome is coated with a non-digestible fat, the stomach does not come into direct contact with it.

 

Topical application
The Boswellia is also sold as a cream for topical application, which is also very effective. Again in the case of a cream, it is good to look for a liposomal cream which has a much higher absorption. Mixing this cream with MSM gel further increases absorption through the skin.

 

Boswellia and other drugs
Bowsellia can interact with certain drugs such as anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, and some drugs used in cancer. It is therefore important to contact your doctor if you are taking such medicines and want to start using Boswelli