The resin that tames inflammation and supports joints
Boswellia tea, made from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree, is one of the most respected herbal remedies for chronic inflammation, arthritis, and joint health. Known also as frankincense or Indian frankincense, boswellia has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic medicine to treat inflammatory conditions, arthritis, respiratory issues, and wound healing. Unlike many anti-inflammatory herbs that work primarily through COX-2 inhibition (the same pathway as ibuprofen), boswellia contains boswellic acids that work through a different mechanism: they inhibit 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) , an enzyme involved in the production of inflammatory compounds called leukotrienes. This makes boswellia particularly valuable for conditions that do not respond well to conventional NSAIDs, and it also means it can be used alongside them without increasing the risk of stomach bleeding. Boswellia tea has a distinctive, resinous, slightly pine-like flavour that reflects its origins as a tree resin. For those suffering from chronic joint pain or inflammatory bowel conditions, it offers a unique and valuable approach to inflammation.
If you’d like to try the herbal teas mentioned in this article for yourself, we’ve curated a selection of high-quality, tested sources below. Every product we recommend has been chosen for purity and potency, or visit our online Herbal Tea Shop for even more choice.
What boswellia tea is and how it works
Boswellia (Boswellia serrata) is a moderate-sized deciduous tree native to India, North Africa, and the Middle East. When the bark is cut, it exudes a gummy resin that is harvested, dried, and used medicinally. This resin is the source of frankincense, which has been traded for thousands of years and was one of the gifts given to the infant Jesus by the Magi. The name “frankincense” comes from the Old French franc encens, meaning “high-quality incense.”
The primary active compounds in boswellia are boswellic acids, particularly acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) , which is the most potent anti-inflammatory component. These compounds work through several mechanisms: 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) inhibition (blocking the production of leukotrienes, which are powerful inflammatory compounds), NF-kB modulation (affecting inflammatory signalling pathways), leukocyte elastase inhibition (reducing tissue damage from inflammatory cells), and antioxidant activity (protecting tissues from oxidative damage). When prepared as a tea, these compounds are extracted into the water, providing a gentle but effective way to reduce inflammation.
Unlike NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, which block COX enzymes and can cause stomach irritation and bleeding, boswellia works through a different pathway. This makes it particularly valuable for people who cannot tolerate conventional anti-inflammatories. It also means boswellia can be used alongside NSAIDs for enhanced effect without increasing the risk of stomach damage.
Key health benefits of boswellia tea
Osteoarthritis relief is one of the most well-documented benefits of boswellia. Multiple clinical studies have shown that boswellia extract can significantly reduce pain, improve physical function, and decrease stiffness in people with osteoarthritis of the knee. Some studies have found it as effective as standard doses of certain pharmaceutical NSAIDs, with fewer gastrointestinal side effects. For those who cannot tolerate conventional anti-inflammatories due to stomach issues, boswellia offers a natural alternative.
Rheumatoid arthritis may also benefit from boswellia’s anti-inflammatory effects. While the evidence is less extensive than for osteoarthritis, traditional use and preliminary research suggest it can help reduce joint swelling, morning stiffness, and pain in inflammatory arthritis.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) , including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is another area where boswellia has shown promise. Clinical studies have demonstrated that boswellia extract can reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including inflammation, bleeding, and frequency of bowel movements. Some studies have found it as effective as certain pharmaceutical medications for mild to moderate cases. For those with inflammatory bowel conditions, boswellia tea may offer supportive benefits.
Asthma and respiratory inflammation are traditional indications for boswellia. Its anti-inflammatory effects on the airways can help reduce bronchial constriction and improve breathing. Some studies have shown that boswellia can reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
Tendonitis and bursitis may respond to boswellia’s anti-inflammatory effects. Its ability to reduce leukotriene production makes it particularly useful for these conditions, which involve inflammation of connective tissues.
General joint and muscle pain is a traditional use. For those with chronic pain from overuse, injury, or ageing, boswellia can provide gentle, ongoing support.
How to prepare boswellia tea
Boswellia tea can be prepared from the dried resin, though it is more challenging than standard herbal teas. From resin pieces: Boswellia resin comes in small, hard, amber-coloured pieces. Break or crush one to two teaspoons of resin pieces. Place in a cup and pour freshly boiled water over them. Steep for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to help the resin dissolve. The resin does not fully dissolve; it softens and releases its compounds into the water. Strain well: Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer or coffee filter to remove any remaining resin pieces. From powder: Boswellia powder (ground resin) is also available. Use one-quarter to one-half teaspoon per cup of water. Steep for 5–10 minutes, then strain. Flavour: Boswellia tea has a distinctive, resinous, slightly bitter, pine-like, and somewhat earthy flavour. It is not a pleasant sipping tea; it is taken as medicine. Blending: Boswellia blends well with more palatable herbs such as peppermint, ginger, cinnamon, or licorice root, which can help mask the resinous flavour. A blend of boswellia and peppermint is more drinkable while still effective. Sweetening: Honey or stevia can help balance the bitterness.
How to use boswellia tea safely
Boswellia tea is generally safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts – one to three cups daily. However, several precautions apply.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is limited safety data on boswellia during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is generally recommended to avoid boswellia during pregnancy unless under professional guidance.
Blood thinners: Boswellia may have mild blood-thinning properties. If you take warfarin, aspirin, or other anticoagulants, consult your healthcare provider before regular use.
NSAIDs: Boswellia works through a different pathway than NSAIDs and is generally considered safe to take alongside them. However, consult your healthcare provider before combining.
Stomach sensitivity: Some people experience mild digestive upset, including nausea, diarrhoea, or acid reflux, when taking boswellia. Starting with a smaller dose and taking it with food may help.
Allergies: Those with allergies to boswellia or other tree resins (frankincense, myrrh) should avoid boswellia.
Surgery: Boswellia may affect blood clotting. It is generally recommended to discontinue use at least two weeks before scheduled surgery.
Recommended dosage
For chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or IBD, one to two cups of boswellia tea daily is typical. For acute pain or flare-ups, two to three cups daily may be consumed. Unlike some herbs that work cumulatively over weeks, boswellia may provide noticeable relief within days. However, consistency is still important. Many people take boswellia daily for several weeks or months, then take a break to assess ongoing need.
Limitations of boswellia tea
Boswellia tea is not a substitute for medical treatment, particularly for severe arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, or asthma. Its effects are moderate and work best as part of a broader approach that includes appropriate medical care, diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. Claims that boswellia “cures” arthritis or IBD are unsupported; it is best understood as a supportive tool for managing inflammation and pain.
FAQ
Is boswellia tea good for arthritis?
Yes. Clinical studies have shown that boswellia can reduce pain and improve function in osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee. It may also help with rheumatoid arthritis.
What does boswellia tea taste like?
Boswellia tea has a distinctive, resinous, slightly bitter, pine-like, and earthy flavour. It is not a pleasant sipping tea; it is taken as medicine. Blending with peppermint or ginger and adding honey improves palatability.
Is boswellia tea safe to take with ibuprofen?
Yes, generally. Boswellia works through a different anti-inflammatory pathway (5-LOX) than NSAIDs (COX inhibition). This means it can be taken alongside ibuprofen without increasing the risk of stomach bleeding. However, consult your healthcare provider.
How long does boswellia tea take to work?
Boswellia may provide noticeable relief within days, unlike some herbs that take weeks. For chronic conditions, consistent daily use is still recommended.
Can boswellia tea help with ulcerative colitis?
Some studies suggest boswellia can reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis, including inflammation and bleeding. It may be as effective as certain pharmaceutical medications for mild to moderate cases.
Conclusion
Boswellia tea offers a unique approach to inflammation that works through a different pathway than conventional NSAIDs. Its boswellic acids inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, reducing the production of leukotrienes—powerful inflammatory compounds that contribute to arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma. This makes boswellia particularly valuable for people who cannot tolerate standard anti-inflammatories or who have conditions that do not respond well to them. The distinctive resinous flavour is an acquired taste, but for those suffering from chronic inflammation, the relief it provides is well worth it. Used appropriately and with awareness of its safety profile, boswellia tea can be a powerful ally against inflammation.
Recommended Products
If you’d like to try the herbal teas mentioned in this article for yourself, we’ve curated a selection of high-quality, tested sources below. Every product we recommend has been chosen for purity and potency, or visit our online Herbal Tea Shop for even more choice.
Boswellia powder (loose leaf): https://amzn.to/4dBNKlR
Peppermint tea (loose leaf): https://amzn.to/4lIQSyi (for blending)
Ginger tea (loose leaf): https://amzn.to/3PmSWQw (for blending)
Manuka Honey: https://amzn.to/47p7i9g
High-quality Garlic press: https://amzn.to/4sFBsxD
Tea infuser: https://amzn.to/4lAToGE
Glass teapot: https://amzn.to/4snGsGY
Storage boxes: https://amzn.to/47UQgQf
Assortment Box: https://amzn.to/3NFO9ZJ
Visit our online Herbal Tea Shop for more choice!
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Further Reading
For a full evidence-based overview of herbal tea benefits, safety, and quality considerations, read our complete guide to Herbal Tea Benefits
1] For more on joint inflammation, see:
Herbal Teas for Arthritis, Gout and Rheumatism
2] For anti-inflammatory support, see:
Herbal Tea for Inflammation
3] For digestive inflammation, see:
Herbal Teas to Aid Digestion
4] For safety guidance on herbal teas, see:
Are Herbal Teas Safe?
5] For potential interactions with medications, see:
Herbal Tea and Medication
Visit our bookshop to check out the ‘culturally grounded, Otherworldly narratives’ by Owen Jones.
References
1] National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) – Boswellia
Provides evidence-based information on boswellia safety and research.
2] European Medicines Agency – Frankincense
Offers regulatory and safety assessments for boswellia preparations.
3] Arthritis Foundation – Boswellia for Arthritis
Provides practical recommendations for using boswellia for joint pain.
4] National Health Service (NHS) – Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Provides medical guidance on IBD symptoms and treatment.