Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alpha-keto-boswellic acid (AKBA) is a bioactive compound derived from the resin of Boswellia serrata, commonly known as Indian frankincense. There is a growing body of preclinical and limited clinical evidence suggesting that AKBA and related boswellic acids exert anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which has led to their investigation as potential adjuncts in the management of some autoimmune disorders.

Mechanistically, AKBA is known to inhibit 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), an enzyme involved in the synthesis of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. It also modulates nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling, further reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These properties have prompted laboratory and animal studies exploring AKBA’s effects in models of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis. Some small human studies and pilot trials with Boswellia extracts (which contain AKBA as a major component) have shown improvements in symptoms for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis, although the evidence is not robust or universally consistent.

Despite these promising findings, the overall quality and quantity of evidence—especially for isolated AKBA and in well-designed human trials—remains limited. Most data come from studies using Boswellia extracts rather than purified AKBA, and sample sizes are often small. Thus, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence for its use in autoimmune disorders, more rigorous research is needed to establish efficacy and safety.

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