The evidence for the effectiveness of B serrata extracts is encouraging but not compelling
OBJECTIVE To assess evidence from r and omised clinical trials about the effectiveness of  extracts of Boswellia serrata ( frankincense ) .
Effects of Boswellia serrata gum resin in patients with ulcerative colitis.
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon where leukotrienes are suggested to play an important role for keeping inflammation active . Boswellic acids , the biologically active ingredients of the gum resin of Boswellia serrata ( Sallai guggal ) , have been shown to be specific , nonredox and noncompetitive inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase , the key enzyme of leukotriene bio synthesis . In patients suffering from ulcerative colitis grade II and III the effect of Boswellia serrata gum resin preparation ( 350 mg thrice daily for 6 weeks ) on stool properties , histolopathology and scan microscopy of rectal biopsies , blood parameters including Hb , serum iron , calcium , phosphorus , proteins , total leukocytes and eosinophils was studied . Patients receiving sulfasalazine ( 1 g thrice daily ) served as controls . All parameters tested improved after treatment with Boswellia serrata gum resin , the results being similar compared to controls : 82 % out of treated patients went into remission ; in case of sulfasalazine remission rate was 75 %
The evidence for the effectiveness of B serrata extracts is encouraging but not compelling
OBJECTIVE To assess evidence from r and omised clinical trials about the effectiveness of  extracts of Boswellia serrata ( frankincense ) .