Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is an herbal extract derived from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree. It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, primarily for its anti-inflammatory properties. Scientific interest in Boswellia centers on its active compounds, boswellic acids, which have demonstrated the ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes such as 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX).

While there is substantial evidence from clinical trials supporting Boswellia’s efficacy in treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis—both inflammatory joint conditions—there is limited direct research on its use specifically for bursitis. Bursitis involves inflammation of the bursae, and since it shares inflammatory pathways with arthritis, some practitioners and patients extrapolate the anti-inflammatory benefits of Boswellia to bursitis management.

However, scientific validation for this application is weak. Clinical studies specifically targeting bursitis are lacking, and current evidence stems mainly from anecdotal reports, case studies, or from broader anti-inflammatory research. Systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials have not definitively evaluated Boswellia for bursitis. Therefore, while scientific rationale exists, direct evidence supporting Boswellia for bursitis remains preliminary and indirect.

In summary, Boswellia is used for bursitis based on its general anti-inflammatory effects, but scientific evidence for this specific indication is limited.