Boswellic acids, the active compounds in the resin of Boswellia serrata (also known as Indian frankincense), have a long history of use in traditional medicine for various inflammatory conditions. In terms of supporting the bronchial system, modern scientific studies have provided some evidence that boswellic acids may help with respiratory issues, particularly those involving inflammation, such as asthma and chronic bronchitis.

The mechanism thought to underlie these effects is the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme involved in the synthesis of leukotrienes, which are mediators of inflammation in asthma and other bronchial conditions. Several small clinical trials and animal studies have shown that Boswellia extracts can reduce symptoms and improve lung function in patients with bronchial asthma. For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the journal European Journal of Medical Research (1998) found that 70% of patients with bronchial asthma showed improvement in symptoms when treated with Boswellia serrata extract.

However, the overall quality and quantity of clinical evidence remains limited. Most studies have small sample sizes or methodological weaknesses, and systematic reviews have called for larger, well-controlled clinical trials. Thus, while there is some scientific basis for the use of boswellic acids in supporting bronchial health, the strength of evidence is moderate at best, and more research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety.