Boswellia Serrata Extract (Boswellia serrata)
Boswellia serrata, a moderate to large branching tree of the Burseraceae family, yields an oleo-gum-resin known for its therapeutic properties. Commonly called Salai guggal or frankincense, this tree thrives in dry, hilly regions of India, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Composition and Key Bioactive Compounds:
The oleo-gum-resin of B. serrata comprises approximately 8-9% essential oil, 20-23% gum, and about 50% resin. The essential oil is a complex mixture of monoterpenes, diterpenes, and sesquiterpenes. The gum fraction consists of pentose and hexose sugars, along with oxidizing and digestive enzymes. The resin, considered the primary source of therapeutic activity, is rich in pentacyclic triterpene acids, with boswellic acids being the key active constituents.
Therapeutic Applications and Clinical Evidence:
Historically, B. serrata oleo-gum-resin has been employed for a wide range of therapeutic purposes, including managing cancer, inflammation, arthritis, asthma, psoriasis, colitis, Crohn's disease, and hyperlipidemia. The anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities are primarily attributed to boswellic acids.
Clinical studies have provided evidence supporting the traditional uses. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study demonstrated that B. serrata extract effectively reduced knee pain, increased knee flexion, and improved walking distance in osteoarthritis patients.
Furthermore, a double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving bronchial asthma patients revealed that B. serrata gum resin significantly contributed to the treatment of this condition.
Additionally, research suggests that B. serrata gum resin exhibits antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-hyperlipidemic properties, indicating its potential utility in managing type 2 diabetes.
Product Specifications:
This Boswellia serrata extract is presented as an off-white to cream powder with a characteristic odor. Specifications include:
- CAS No.: 97952-72-2
- Identification: HPLC
- Heavy Metals: Arsenic (≤ 1 ppm), Lead (≤ 10 ppm)
- Content: Acetyl keto beta boswellic acids (5, 10, 30, 90% w/w); Beta boswellic acids (20, 40, 65, 70, 80% w/w)
- Microbiological Profile: As per JPN Food Regulation
This extract is designed for use in applications targeting inflammation, arthritis, and related health conditions.