Evidence supporting the use of: Boswellia
For the health condition: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, and there is a modest but growing body of scientific research exploring its utility in various chronic inflammatory conditions, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The active constituents, mainly boswellic acids, are thought to inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme involved in leukotriene synthesis, which plays a role in inflammation and bronchoconstriction.

A few small-scale clinical studies and preclinical trials have investigated Boswellia’s effects on respiratory diseases. One randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study (Gupta et al., 1998) found that Boswellia improved symptoms and pulmonary function in asthma, a condition with some pathophysiological overlap with COPD. However, direct studies on COPD patients are scarce. Some preclinical studies suggest that Boswellia extracts reduce markers of airway inflammation, which could theoretically benefit COPD patients, but human data specific to COPD remain limited.

In summary, Boswellia’s use in COPD is scientifically plausible due to its anti-inflammatory properties; however, the direct evidence from human studies specific to COPD is weak, making the overall level of scientific support modest. Larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to establish efficacy and safety in this population.

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