Boswellia serrata, an ancient herb known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties:
🌿 Boswellia serrata
Type: Medium-sized deciduous tree
Common Names: Indian Frankincense, Salai, Shallaki
Sanskrit Name: Shallaki
Hindi Name: Salai Guggal
Botanical Name: Boswellia serrata
Family: Burseraceae
🌳 Plant Description
- Height: 12–15 meters
- Leaves: Pinnate, with toothed edges
- Bark: Peels in thin flakes, yields resin when cut
- Gum/Resin: Yellowish, aromatic – this is the medicinal part
🔬 Key Active Compounds
- Boswellic acids (esp. AKBA – Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid)
- Essential oils, Resins, Polysaccharides
These are known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant actions.
💊 Medicinal Uses of Shallaki
| Body System | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Joints | Reduces inflammation, stiffness, and pain in arthritis (RA & OA) |
| Bones | Supports bone strength and flexibility |
| Respiratory | Eases asthma, bronchitis, and congestion |
| Gut health | Helps in colitis, Crohn’s disease, IBS |
| Immune system | Modulates immune response, reduces autoimmune flares |
| Skin | Used in leprosy, wounds, and skin disorders |
| Pain | Natural analgesic for muscle, joint, and back pain |
🌼 Ayurvedic Profile
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Rasa (Taste) | Bitter, Astringent |
| Virya (Potency) | Heating |
| Vipaka (Post-digestive effect) | Katu (Pungent) |
| Effect on Doshas | Balances Vata and Kapha |
Shallaki is especially valued for its Vata-pacifying action, making it great for joint and nerve issues.
🧪 How It’s Used
- Resin extract (standardized) – in capsules/tablets
- Powder (Churna) – less common, mixed with warm water or honey
- Oil – used externally for arthritis massage
- Combination formulas – with Guggulu, Ashwagandha, or Turmeric for enhanced anti-inflammatory effects
⚠️ Precautions
- Generally safe and well-tolerated
- May cause mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals
- Use with caution in pregnancy
- Check with a doctor if taking anti-inflammatory or immune-suppressant drugs