Herbal Anti-Inflammatory for Joint Pain

Reduces pain and inflammation

Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have many side effects. They cause leaky gut, ulcerations, intestinal bleeding, kidney disease, high blood pressure, strokes and heart attacks—to name a few. Fortunately, nature provides anti-inflammatory herbs that are effective and safer. Today, we will focus on the anti-inflammatory herb Boswellia.

Anti-inflammatory effect

The herb Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, comes from a tree native to India. The plant has strong anti-inflammatory effects that are especially useful for treating joint pain, arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis as well as asthma and cancer.

Studies of Boswellia show beneficial effects. The herb has been found to reduce joint pain and stiffness and relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis and tendonitis. In the area of intestinal health, a study of people with inflammatory bowel disease found that 82 percent of those who took Boswellia went into remission. Participants on Boswellia had an even better success rate than those taking the drug sulfasalazine. Interestingly, preliminary research also indicates Boswellia improves skin quality and elasticity.

Pain-relieving effect

The active ingredient is boswellic acid. Studies of a type of boswellic acid nicknamed AKBA, which stands for 3-O-acetyl-11-keo-beta-boswellic acid, show that it’s a potent anti-inflammatory medicine and pain reliever. AKBA relieves pain by inhibiting the enzyme 5-LOX, short for 5-lipoxygenase. This in turn reduces the body’s production of leukotrienes, substances that cause pain and inflammation. Boswellia is often used to support joint health because of its exceptional anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic and analgesic effects.

Herbal ibuprofen

Boswellia is a powerful herb with effects that are often compared to NSAIDs. Some products containing Boswellia are even called “phyoprofen.” Unlike NSAIDs, though, active plant substances in Boswellia dampen pro-inflammatory enzymes without damaging the intestinal lining. As a result, the herb has fewer adverse effects and less toxicity compared to NSAIDs. It’s also safer to use for longer periods of time; some studies have utilized it for up to six months.

Now for the practical steps: It usually takes about two to four weeks to notice the herb’s benefits. The most common side effect is stomach irritation; taking the herb with meals reduces this risk. In addition, get your health care provider’s approval before taking Boswellia if you’re currently on NSAID medications, blood thinners, immunosuppressive drugs, or other medications with which it could interact. Do not take it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or are allergic to the herb. While Boswellia has a good safety record, consult your health care provider right away if you have any questions or problems.

A few of the many herbal remedies that are widely available in the United States.

This newsletter is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment; before adhering to any recommendations in this newsletter consult your healthcare provider.