Boswellia

FACTS

Boswellia is one of several ancient herbal remedies that is now on the cutting edge of alternative medicine. Used for thousands of years in the Ayurvedic medical system in India, boswellia is being rediscovered as a treatment for osteoarthritis (so-called "wear-and-tear" arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disorder that causes

the destruction of cartilage, the protective covering that cushions bones. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause pain and swelling in the joints and, in severe cases, can be debilitating. There is no cure for either type of arthritis, although they are commonly treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). The problem is that all of these drugs can cause side effects, notably gastric problems, such as ulcers. In addition, most people find that the beneficial effects of these drugs are short-lived; as a result, they need to switch medications frequently.

Natural remedies such as boswellia can relieve arthritis without the potentially dangerous side effects of NSAIDs. In studies of arthritis patients, boswellia has produced some impressive results and was as effective in treating pain and inflammation as one of the most frequently prescribed NSAIDs. Boswellia blocks the synthesis of leukotrienes, substances in the body that can trigger inflammation, and promote the formation of free radicals. It may also be useful for the treatment of other inflammatory conditions, such as psoriasis and ulcerative colitis.

Several antiarthritis formulas combine boswellia along with other anti-inflammatory Ayurvedic herbs, including curcumin and Ashwagandha.

At the same time boswellia relieves arthritis, it also helps to prevent heart disease. According to Indian studies, boswellia can lower high blood levels of cholesterol and triglyceride, two risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

POSSIBLE BENEFITS

Relieve symptoms of arthritis.

Normalize blood lipid levels.

THE RIGHT AMOUNT

Boswellia is available in capsules and topical cream. Take three 500-mg. capsules daily. Once symptoms subside, reduce dose to one 500-mg. capsule daily.

Gently massage boswellia cream into affected areas up to three times daily. Do not use on children under 2 years of age without consulting a health care practitioner.

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