Evidence supporting the use of: Boswellic acids
For the body system: Prostaglandins

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Boswellic acids are the primary active components of the resin derived from the Boswellia serrata tree, commonly known as Indian frankincense. Scientific research indicates that boswellic acids possess anti-inflammatory properties, which have been studied in the context of their effect on prostaglandin synthesis and the broader eicosanoid pathway. Specifically, boswellic acids are known to inhibit the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), which is involved in the synthesis of leukotrienes, another class of inflammatory mediators related to prostaglandins. Some studies suggest that boswellic acids may also influence the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway, potentially modulating prostaglandin production, although their primary action is more pronounced on leukotriene pathways.

Clinical and preclinical studies have demonstrated that Boswellia extracts can reduce symptoms in inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which are partly mediated by prostaglandins and other eicosanoids. However, while the evidence supports a modulatory effect on inflammatory mediators including prostaglandins, the direct, robust scientific evidence for Boswellic acids specifically supporting the "Prostaglandins body system" is moderate. Most research highlights its anti-inflammatory role rather than a direct, targeted support of prostaglandin balance. Nevertheless, the mechanism by which Boswellic acids exert their effects does intersect with prostaglandin biology, justifying a scientific basis for their use in this context, albeit with moderate strength of evidence.

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