Boswellia serrata gum extract (BSGE)

Boswellia serrata gum extract, commonly known as Indian Frankincense, is a resinous botanical extract derived from the Boswellia serrata tree. It is characterized by its high content of pentacyclic triterpenes, specifically boswellic acids, with 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) identified as a primary bioactive constituent (Siddiqui, 2011). While often discussed in therapeutic contexts, it is not a single molecular target but rather a complex mixture that exerts pharmacological effects by inhibiting the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) (Ammon, 2006). This inhibition prevents the conversion of arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory leukotrienes, which are key mediators in various chronic inflammatory conditions (Abdel-Tawab et al., 2011). Clinical applications of the extract include the management of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases, where it helps reduce pain and improve physical function (Kimmatkar et al., 2003). Despite its natural origin, the extract can interact with drug-metabolizing enzymes such as CYP3A4 and CYP2C9, potentially affecting the pharmacokinetics of co-administered medications like warfarin (Unger et al., 2010).

Other names

Indian FrankincenseSalai guggalShallakiBoswellin

Non-redox, non-competitive inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), leading to decreased production of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes.