Inflammation/Mobility/Digestion

Boswellia

Herbal resin extract that inhibits inflammatory enzymes and may reduce joint pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel symptoms.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

Our methodology: How we evaluate supplements and turn the underlying research into a single rating.

Read full methodology

Use with caution

This supplement may interact with medications, medical conditions or sensitive populations. Review safety before use.

Overview

Forms

Safety

Stack

Quick Take

Worth considering for knee osteoarthritis or ulcerative colitis; limited return for general wellness.

Boswellia serrata is a tree resin used in Ayurvedic medicine, yielding boswellic acids (notably AKBA). It works mainly by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, which lowers pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. The best evidence is for easing knee osteoarthritis pain and improving function; smaller studies suggest benefit in ulcerative colitis and asthma. People with chronic inflammatory conditions are the most likely to notice a meaningful effect.

Potential benefits

Improves knee OA pain/function

Improves UC symptoms

May lower inflammation

May improve asthma symptoms

May improve RA symptoms

May improve psoriasis symptoms

Protocol

Amount

300-500 mg

Frequency

2-3 times daily

When

With meals to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset.

Onset Time

4-8 weeks for joint pain; 4-6 weeks for digestive symptoms.

Who Should Consider

Adults with knee osteoarthritis

People with ulcerative colitis

People with chronic inflammatory joint pain

Those who want a non-NSAID OA option

How It Works

Boswellic acids, particularly acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), selectively inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, reducing synthesis of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. They also modulate NF-κB, TNF-α, and other cytokine pathways, collectively dampening localized and systemic inflammation.

Updated 5/19/2026