March 13, 2023. Boswellic Acids Inhibit Leukotriene Synthesis by Blocking Enzyme 5-Lipoxygenase

Boswellic acids (BAs) are a natural mixture isolated from oleo gum resin of Boswellia serrata (frankincense)comprised of four major pentacyclic triterpene acids Ref. They have been shown to have various biological effects, one of them being anti-inflammatory properties.

One of the mechanisms through which BAs exert their anti-inflammatory effects is by inhibiting the lipooxygenase pathway. The lipooxygenase pathway is an enzymatic pathway that converts arachidonic acid, a type of fatty acid, into leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators. Specifically, the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) is is the one which is blocked.

A study of the efficacy, safety and tolerability of Boswellia serrata extract in osteoarthritis (OA) knee against valdecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor was done and published in 2007. It showed comparable and even longer lasting effects. The dose used in the study was 333 mg of the Boswellia serrata extract 3 times a day (1 g per day). No significant adverse effects were reported

References:

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2007.11.019
https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7613.30759

Any information or statement present in this post does not replace your health care provider’s advice or treatment. This blog does not provide medical advice, prescribe medications or therapies, or diagnose conditions, it only expresses an opinion. If you have a health-related question or condition, confer with your healthcare provider.