Boswellia
Boswellia (boswellia serrata)
Brief Background:
Boswellia, or olibanum, is a close relative to the incense frankincense. Extracts from resins of Boswellia species have been used for years in Africa, Ayurvedic medicine in India, and countries for the treatment of a variety of diseases. Today, boswellia is commonly used in complementary medicine, and it is widely available to consumers.
Expert Opinion and Historic Precedent:
Boswellia has traditionally been used for a number of topical applications, including the treatment of acne, bacterial infections, fungal infections, boils, wound healing, scars, and varicose veins. It is used cosmetically as a facial toner and to smooth wrinkles.
Historically, boswellia has been utilized to improve emotional well-being and as part of religious rituals. It has been reported that it has the ability to enhance spirituality, mental perception, meditation, prayer, and consciousness when burned. Burning is said to produce a psychoactive substance, trans-hydrocannabinole.
