Boswellic acids, the active components of Boswellia serrata resin (also known as frankincense), have a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic practices for treating inflammatory conditions. Recent scientific research has explored their effects on autoimmune disorders, especially those characterized by chronic inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Preclinical studies have shown that boswellic acids can inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes like 5-lipoxygenase, reduce leukotriene synthesis, and modulate cytokine production, all of which are important in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases.

Several small clinical trials and animal studies suggest that Boswellia extracts may reduce symptoms and markers of inflammation in RA and IBD. For example, a few randomized controlled trials have reported improvements in joint swelling and pain in RA patients, as well as reduced inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis. However, these studies often lack large sample sizes, standardized extracts, or long-term follow-up. No large-scale, high-quality clinical trials have conclusively established boswellic acids as an effective treatment for autoimmune disorders.

In summary, while preliminary scientific evidence supports a potential role for boswellic acids in managing inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases, the quality and quantity of this evidence is limited. Boswellic acids should therefore be considered as a complementary therapy rather than a primary treatment, pending more robust clinical research.