Boswellia Serrata Extract

Boswellia serrata extract is an extract obtained from the hardened tree sap of Boswellia serrata. This solid gum resin is also called Indian frankincense or Olibanum indicum.

Boswellia serrata extract has been subject to a vast field of research and many clinical studies (more information below), but, in skincare products, is used for its anti-inflammatory properties and pleasant scent.

Frankincense is one of the oldest remedies in the world. It is a staple in Chinese traditional medicine, as well as the ancient medicines of Egypt, Persia, and Israel. In many places, the frankincense is burned for religious rituals, or simply in order to enjoy its fragrant smoke.

Nowadays, frankincense is subject to relentless research because it seems that its active compounds have promising anti-inflammatory properties. Clinical trials have been conducted for the treatment of Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and inflammation in general, with very promising results.

As is usual for clinical trials, however, more evidence is needed to take any further steps towards any kind of frankincense-based drug. There is some evidence that boswellic acids are able to slow down the destruction of collagen and elastin (this often happens during inflammatory diseases), which might also be beneficial for the skin to keep it firm and youthful.

There have been no studies on the topic, however, and so this is just an educated guess.

The gum resin is obtained by making a small cut on the branches of the Boswellia serrata tree and then collecting the air-dried gum resin drops. The main active ingredients are various boswellic acids (chemically, they belong to the family of terpenes), polysaccharide gum, and essential oil.

The frankincense essential oil can be isolated by distillation and has an earthy, piny scent with notes of citrus fruits and spice. The compounds responsible for its scent are octyl acetate, pinene, linalool, and many others.

Overall, Boswellia serrata extract is a very promising natural remedy against inflammation and chronic inflammatory diseases (as well as those of the skin). Frankincense extract might therefore be of benefit to people with eczema or inflammatory skin conditions.