Herbs

Boswellia

Also called: shallaki, frankincense, boswellia serrata

Resin of the frankincense tree.

Why people take it
Osteoarthritis, inflammation.
What the evidence says
Some evidence for knee osteoarthritis pain.
How it is usually taken
Usually 100 to 250 mg of standardised extract one to three times a day.
Be careful
Stomach upset; generally well tolerated.
Medicines it can interact with
May affect some medicines broken down by the liver.

Other herbs

EchinaceaElderberryGarlic extractGingerPeppermint oilMilk thistleSaw palmettoSt John's wortValerianChamomileLemon balmPassionflowerKavaRhodiolaGinkgoMoringaFenugreekCinnamonBlack seedLicorice

Common questions

What is Boswellia?

Resin of the frankincense tree.

Why do people take Boswellia?

Osteoarthritis, inflammation.

Does Boswellia work?

Some evidence for knee osteoarthritis pain.

How much Boswellia do people take?

Usually 100 to 250 mg of standardised extract one to three times a day.

Is Boswellia safe?

Stomach upset; generally well tolerated.

Does Boswellia interact with medicines?

May affect some medicines broken down by the liver.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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