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JOINT & CONNECTIVE TISSUE

Boswellia (AKBA-Enhanced)

Joint comfort · inflammation modulation

STRONG EVIDENCEVEGANREAD THE RESEARCH
Written to our editorial standards · reviewed against published research· Updated 2 Jun 2026
Last reviewed: May 30, 2026
QUICK ANSWER

Boswellia: Joint comfort · inflammation modulation. Frankincense extract standardized to AKBA, directly inhibits the 5-LOX inflammation pathway. Comparable to first-line joint interventions in trials. Standard dose 100 mg AprèsFlex, taken in the morning, about $19/month. Evidence rating: strong evidence.

What is Boswellia?

Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to support joint comfort and inflammation. Its primary bioactive compound, acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), is one of the few naturally occurring substances shown to inhibit the 5-LOX enzyme, a key pathway in inflammatory leukotriene production that is not affected by typical NSAIDs. The enhanced-AKBA form known as AprèsFlex (or 5-Loxin) is the most clinically studied. Trials in osteoarthritis have shown meaningful improvements in pain, stiffness, and joint function within 5-7 days, with continued progress over 90 days at 100 mg daily.

WHY IT MATTERS

Frankincense extract standardized to AKBA, directly inhibits the 5-LOX inflammation pathway. Comparable to first-line joint interventions in trials.

Where to buy

NOW Foods Boswellia Extract 500mg
RECOMMENDED
Life Extension, Boswellia
100 mg AprèsFlex · Morning · ~$19/month

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Common questions

What is Boswellia?
Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to support joint comfort and inflammation. Its primary bioactive compound, acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), is one of the few naturally occurring substances shown to inhibit the 5-LOX enzyme, a key pathway in inflammatory leukotriene production that is not affected by typical NSAIDs. The enhanced-AKBA form known as AprèsFlex (or 5-Loxin) is the most clinically studied. Trials in osteoarthritis have shown meaningful improvements in pain, stiffness, and joint function within 5-7 days, with continued progress over 90 days at 100 mg daily.
What is Boswellia used for?
Joint comfort · inflammation modulation. Frankincense extract standardized to AKBA, directly inhibits the 5-LOX inflammation pathway. Comparable to first-line joint interventions in trials.
What is the standard dose of Boswellia?
100 mg AprèsFlex, typically taken in the morning. Approximate cost is $19 per month.
How strong is the evidence for Boswellia?
Strong evidence for its primary uses. See the full study list on the research page.

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