Effectiveness of Boswellia and Boswellia extract for osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Yu G, Xiang W, Zhang T, et al. · BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies

Pooled analysis found boswellia significantly reduced pain and stiffness and improved function versus control (e.g., VAS pain WMD about -8 on a 100 scale), with authors recommending at least 4 weeks of use.

Population

7 randomized trials of Boswellia preparations in osteoarthritis

Intervention

Boswellia serrata or its extracts, typically 100-1000 mg/day for 4-24 weeks

Comparator

Placebo or control

Limitations

Trial base is small and dominated by manufacturer-funded studies from a few groups; heterogeneous extracts and doses limit generalization.