Boswellia serrata
Latin name:
Boswellia serrata
Common names:
Boswellie, Boswellia, Incense tree
Family:
Burseraceae
Origin:
India, North Africa, Middle East
Parts of the plant used:
Gum, barks
Description
This tree grows in the dry areas of India, North Africa and the Middle East. Although decoctions are made from the bark, it is mainly the gum that hardens in contact with the air that is used in phytotherapy. This gum-resin contains triterpene acids, including α-boswellic acid, which are responsible for the activity, as well as sugars. The plant has been used for a very long time for embalming or in cosmetics.
The benefits
- Its anti-inflammatory properties justify its use: boswellia is stimulating, anti-rheumatic, diaphoretic (a term describing any substance that facilitates sweating and, consequently, the elimination of toxins from the skin).
- Its use is recommended in case of skin problems, nervous disorders, urinary problems or overweight.
