Although boswellia side effects are rare, some people will suffer adverse reactions to this herbal medication. When taken as directed, most people will suffer no ill effects at all. The most common boswellia side effects are gastrointestinal complaints. More serious risks such as allergic reaction or cross-reaction with drugs or other supplements are possible as well.
Boswellia is derived from resin of the boswellia serrata, a tree native to India. It has been used for centuries as a traditional herbal remedy to treat a diverse range of conditions and health complaints, including ulcers, asthma, fungal infections, diarrhea, dysentery, ulcers and several skin conditions. Advocates suggest that boswellia can be used as an anti-inflammatory treatment, recommending it as a treatment for arthritis, but as with all supplements, boswellia is not sold as a medication, and no health benefits have been proven clinically.
Most people report no boswellia side effects at all when taking the supplement as directed. Those who exceed recommended doses do run an increased risk of adverse effects, though. Nausea, stomach discomfort or a full, bloated sensation are common boswellia side effects. People with chronic or recurring stomach complaints face an increased risk of boswellia side effects and should avoid this supplement. Rashes also have been observed, especially when using skin creams containing boswellia. No studies have examined boswellia side effects from long-term use.
Allergic reactions also are possible, and they present a more serious health risk. A strong reaction can be life threatening. Symptoms include swollen or itchy skin, hives or rashes, tightness in the throat or chest, wheezing, difficulty breathing or chest pain. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. People with known reactions to boswellia should, of course, avoid this supplement.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid boswellia as well. Boswellia increases the risk of birth defects and can trigger spontaneous abortion. The risk to the newborn child’s health continues when boswellia is present in breast milk.
Cross-reaction with drugs and other herbal supplements also is possible when taking boswellia. In particular, some cancer treatments, cholesterol-reducing medications, antifungal treatments or anti-inflammatory drugs and supplements react with boswellia, and the results can be serious. For those concerned about possible reactions with specific treatments, consultation with a doctor is recommended.
Further study is needed to better assess the potential risks of boswellia, but some groups of people have been highlighted as facing a greater risk. Boswellia is not recommended for people with impaired immunity. Similarly, people who are generally frail are discouraged from using the supplement.
