Growing to twelve feet in height, the boswellia tree is typically found in the dry hills of India. Tapped from the tree trunk is a sticky resin that is made into a purified extract. This extract is used in herbal medication. Its Latin name is Boswellia carterii, and the herb can be traced back to the bible through trading done in the Middle East. It is not only one of the most ancient herbs on record, but highly respected for its healing properties.

An important use for boswellia is the treatment of arthritis and osteoarthritis symptoms. The boswellic acids found within the herb have been proven to shrivel any inflamed tissue associated with these conditions. It encourages cartilage to grow, fixes damaged blood vessels and stimulates blood flow to the painful joints. Conducted studies have shown the effectiveness of this herb, with many patients reporting vast improvements regarding their symptoms. This typically occurred within the first two to four weeks of administering the herb. Better still is that there are no documented or proven side effects when using boswellia. Those suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis do not have to fear any irritation, ulcers or effected heart rate and blood pressure as they would with prescribed drugs.

Boswellia is also known as a skin rejuvenator. It stimulates the growth of new skin cells and can produce oil for dry skin. Additionally, this herb can help treat ulcerative colitis, which is a form of inflammatory bowel disease. It is recommended that patients ingest 400 milligrams three times per day for this particular ailment, and should give the herb four to eight weeks to incite its full effect. Boswellia is also used in cosmetics, perfumes (it has a pleasant aroma) and products for skin-care.

You can purchase boswellia through an extract. There are very few negative side effects associated with this herb. However, some do exist. Firstly, due to its ability to increase blood circulation, women who are pregnant should not use it under any circumstance until after they have completed nursing. Secondly, young children or those with severe liver or kidney disease should not be given doses of boswellia. Otherwise, the only other possible results of taking boswellia are occasional allergic reactions, like diarrhea, skin rashes or nausea.