Evidence supporting the use of: Boswellia serrata
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

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

Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, has a traditional history of use in Ayurvedic medicine for inflammatory conditions. Its use for dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is primarily supported by emerging scientific evidence rather than deep-rooted traditional use for this specific condition. The resin contains boswellic acids, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes such as 5-lipoxygenase. A limited number of modern clinical studies have investigated Boswellia's effects on menstrual pain. For example, a 2014 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that a combination of Boswellia serrata and ginger significantly reduced pain intensity and duration in women with primary dysmenorrhea, compared to placebo. However, these studies often use Boswellia in combination with other herbs, making it challenging to attribute the effects solely to Boswellia. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are lacking, and most available research is preliminary with small sample sizes. Therefore, while there is some scientific backing for Boswellia serrata's use in dysmenorrhea, the evidence is not robust, and further well-designed, large-scale studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for this specific indication.

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