Boswellia serrata is a tree belonging to the Burseraceae family. It produces a type of frankincense (tree gum resin) that also goes by the name Boswellia serrata, as well as Indian frankincense, salai and guggal.
Tree
The Boswellia serrata tree lives in dry climates across India, the Middle East and northern Africa. It has gray, papery bark and grows up to 12 feet high.
Frankincense
Boswellia serrata frankincense is obtained through peeling the bark of the tree and collecting the sap, which hardens into yellowish white lumps. It contains sugars, terpenoids and up to 16 percent essential oil. This essential oil contains mainly p-cymene,alpha-thujene and four pentacyclic triterpene acids that are mainly comprised of beta-boswellic acid.
Considerations
The terpenoid boswellic acids inhibit leukotriene synthesis by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase. Leukotrienes are fatty immune system molecules that help to cause inflammation.
History
Indian frankincense has been used for thousands of years in India in Ayurvedic medicine and in celebrations such as religious ceremonies and weddings.
Function
Boswellia serrata frankincense is still used in Ayurvedic medicine for a variety of diseases. It is also burned as an incense and used to scent homes, hair and personal effects. The extract is used in cosmetics and soaps.
Tags: Boswellia serrata, Ayurvedic medicine, Boswellia serrata frankincense, Boswellia serrata tree, Indian frankincense, serrata frankincense, serrata tree