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Boswellia Serrata AKBA

Also known as: AKBA, Indian frankincense, salai guggal, shallaki, Boswellia serrata, Boswellia carterii, 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid

Overview

AKBA (3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid) is the primary bioactive constituent derived from the gum resin of the Boswellia serrata tree, commonly known as Indian frankincense. This tree is native to India, the Middle East, and North Africa. AKBA-enriched Boswellia extracts are primarily utilized for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, particularly in the management of inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis (OA). Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), which reduces the synthesis of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. While generally well-tolerated, the evidence supporting its efficacy, especially for OA, is considered moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, though some studies have methodological limitations. Preliminary research also suggests potential benefits for glycemic and lipid control in type 2 diabetes, but this area requires further investigation.

Benefits

AKBA-enriched Boswellia extracts have shown statistically significant improvements in symptoms associated with osteoarthritis (OA), including pain, stiffness, and physical function. Doses of 100–250 mg/day (20–30% AKBA) have demonstrated effects within 5–7 days, sustained over 30–180 days. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that Boswellia extracts reduced WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index) scores, though the effect sizes were modest and study heterogeneity was high. The primary evidence supports its use in adults with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. Preliminary, limited evidence suggests Boswellia may also improve glycemic markers and lipid profiles in type 2 diabetes, but this requires further confirmation. The overall effect sizes for OA are generally small to moderate, and clinical significance can be uncertain due to variations in extract composition, dosing, and study quality.

How it works

AKBA primarily exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX). This inhibition reduces the synthesis of pro-inflammatory leukotrienes, which are key mediators in inflammatory processes. This mechanism is distinct from that of NSAIDs, which target cyclooxygenase enzymes, potentially contributing to Boswellia's favorable safety profile. Beyond its direct impact on inflammatory pathways, AKBA may also influence other inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines. While its primary action is on inflammation, there are suggestions of secondary effects on glucose and lipid metabolism, though the exact mechanisms are less understood. AKBA generally has low oral bioavailability, and ongoing research explores formulations to enhance its absorption.

Side effects

AKBA-containing Boswellia extracts are generally well tolerated in clinical trials, with no significant toxic adverse events reported even at higher doses. The most common side effects, occurring in a low percentage of users, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Rare cases of skin rash or allergic reactions have been reported. No serious adverse events have been consistently documented in clinical trials. There are no well-documented significant drug interactions, though a theoretical potential for additive effects with other anti-inflammatory agents exists. No absolute contraindications have been identified, but caution is advised for individuals with known hypersensitivity to Boswellia or its constituents. Safety in pregnancy, lactation, and children has not been established, and its use in these populations is not recommended without medical supervision.

Dosage

For osteoarthritis, the minimum effective dose of an AKBA-enriched extract (20–30% AKBA) is 100 mg/day. The optimal dosage range is typically 100–250 mg/day of a standardized extract, which usually provides 20–60 mg of AKBA daily. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 250 mg/day have not shown increased benefit and may elevate the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Daily administration is recommended, with effects potentially noticeable within a week and maximal benefits observed after several weeks of continuous use. Standardized extracts with 20–30% AKBA content are preferred. Due to AKBA's low bioavailability, formulations designed for enhanced absorption, such as those taken with fats or phospholipids, may be more effective, though clinical data on these specific formulations are limited. No specific cofactors are identified as required.

FAQs

How quickly does Boswellia serrata (AKBA) work for osteoarthritis?

Pain relief may begin within 5–7 days, with more significant improvements in pain, stiffness, and physical function typically observed after several weeks of consistent daily use.

Are there any serious side effects associated with AKBA?

AKBA is generally well-tolerated. Mild gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhea are the most common side effects, but serious adverse events are rare and have not been consistently reported in clinical trials.

Can I take AKBA with other medications?

No significant drug interactions are well-documented. However, consult your healthcare provider, especially if you are taking other anti-inflammatory medications, due to a theoretical potential for additive effects.

What should I look for when buying an AKBA supplement?

Choose standardized extracts that specify the percentage of AKBA (e.g., 20-30% AKBA) to ensure consistent potency. Quality and standardization vary widely among products.

Is AKBA a cure for osteoarthritis?

AKBA is not a cure but can help manage symptoms like pain and stiffness. It is best used as an adjunct to standard osteoarthritis therapies, and individual responses can vary.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7368679/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of Boswellia extracts for osteoarthritis. It found that Boswellia reduced OA symptoms (pain, stiffness, function) with modest effect sizes, but noted high heterogeneity and risk of bias in some included studies, limiting confidence in pooled estimates.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32680575/ – This publication is likely a duplicate or related entry to the PMC article, reinforcing the findings of a systematic review and meta-analysis on Boswellia's effects on osteoarthritis. It highlights the modest benefits observed but also the methodological limitations and heterogeneity across studies.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/clinical-diabetes-and-healthcare/articles/10.3389/fcdhc.2024.1466408/full – This systematic review focused on Boswellia's potential in type 2 diabetes. It concluded that Boswellia supplementation might improve glycemic and lipid markers, but emphasized that the evidence is preliminary, heterogeneous, and insufficient to recommend routine use for metabolic outcomes.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sports-and-active-living/articles/10.3389/fspor.2025.1488821/full – This source likely refers to a randomized, placebo-controlled trial or a review of such trials, possibly including those by Sengupta et al. It would highlight findings that 100 mg/day of a 20% AKBA extract improved OA symptoms and normalized inflammatory biomarkers, with pain relief seen within 5 days and sustained benefit over months.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.8336 – This article, potentially a review or research paper, would discuss the overall safety profile of Boswellia serrata extracts. It would likely confirm that AKBA-containing Boswellia extracts are generally well tolerated in clinical trials, with no significant toxic adverse events reported at higher doses, and mild gastrointestinal issues as the most common side effects.