The Surprising Benefits of Boswellia for Dogs with Joint Pain and Inflammation

As our beloved dogs age, it's common for them to develop aches, pains, and stiffness, especially in their joints. Many pet owners are seeking natural ways to support their dog's mobility and comfort. One promising option is Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense. This ancient herb has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, and modern research is confirming its potential benefits for canine health.

What is Boswellia Serrata?

Boswellia serrata is a tree native to India that produces a fragrant resin. This resin contains powerful compounds called boswellic acids that have anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and anti-arthritic properties.¹ Boswellia extract is often used in herbal supplements for both humans and animals.

How Can Boswellia Help Dogs with Joint Issues?

Several studies have investigated the effects of Boswellia serrata on dogs with osteoarthritis and other inflammatory joint conditions. The research shows that Boswellia supplementation can:

• Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. In a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, dogs with osteoarthritis were given a supplement containing Boswellia serrata extract. After the treatment period, the dogs receiving Boswellia had lower levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and higher levels of antioxidants compared to the placebo group.²

• Decrease chronic pain associated with joint disorders. The same study found that the Boswellia group had a significant reduction in clinical signs of pain, such as lameness and joint stiffness.² Another trial on dogs with chronic joint and spinal disease reported similar improvements in pain and mobility after being given a Boswellia resin extract.³

• Modulate the immune system. Boswellic acids appear to have an immunomodulatory effect, helping to balance the immune response. An in vitro study on canine blood samples demonstrated that Boswellia extract influenced certain immune cells involved in inflammation.⁴

Enhancing Boswellia's Benefits with Lecithin

One challenge with Boswellia supplements is that the active compounds can be difficult for the body to absorb. However, researchers have developed a formulation that combines Boswellia extract with lecithin, a type of fat that acts as an emulsifier.

A comparative study in humans found that the lecithin formulation significantly improved the absorption of boswellic acids, producing higher peak concentrations in the blood.⁵ This suggests that lecithin could help enhance the bioavailability and effectiveness of Boswellia supplements for dogs as well.

Is Boswellia Safe for Dogs?

Boswellia serrata is generally considered safe and well-tolerated in dogs when used appropriately. However, it's important to choose a high-quality supplement from a reputable company and to work with your veterinarian to determine the right dosage for your individual dog.

Quality and standardization are key, as the specific composition of Boswellia products can vary. Look for extracts that have been tested for purity and potency and that are formulated especially for pets.

The Bottom Line on Boswellia for Dogs

If your senior dog is slowing down due to joint pain and stiffness, Boswellia may be able to help. This natural anti-inflammatory shows great promise in easing discomfort, reducing inflammation, and improving mobility in our canine companions.

While more research is still needed, the available evidence suggests that Boswellia serrata could be a safe and effective part of a holistic approach to supporting your dog's joint health and overall well-being. Consider talking to your vet about whether a Boswellia supplement might be right for your furry friend.

References:

1. Al-Yasiry, A., & Kiczorowska, B. (2016). Frankincense--therapeutic properties. Postepy Higieny I Medycyny Doswiadczalnej, 70, 380-391. https://consensus.app/papers/properties-alyasiry/5e60b5e15b3456e5beb630a881dfc676/

2. Gabriele, V., Bisanzio, D., Riva, A., Meineri, G., Adami, R., & Martello, E. (2022). Long-term effects of a diet supplement containing Cannabis sativa oil and Boswellia serrata in dogs with osteoarthritis following physiotherapy treatments: a randomised, placebo-controlled and double-blind clinical trial. Natural Product Research, 1-5. https://consensus.app/papers/effects-containing-cannabis-sativa-boswellia-serrata-gabriele/15b463e43cdd52eebfddd683e6beb99f/

3. Reichling, J., Schmökel, H., Fitzi, J., Bucher, S., & Saller, R. (2004). Dietary support with Boswellia resin in canine inflammatory joint and spinal disease. Schweizer Archiv fur Tierheilkunde, 146(2), 71–79. https://consensus.app/papers/support-boswellia-resin-canine-inflammatory-disease-reichling/81a5833a0a7e54439ab02aea275ee504/

4. Beghelli, D., Isani, G., Roncada, P., Andreani, G., Bistoni, O., Bertocchi, M., Lupidi, G., & Alunno, A. (2017). Antioxidant and Ex Vivo Immune System Regulatory Properties of Boswellia serrata Extracts. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2017, 7468064.https://consensus.app/papers/antioxidant-vivo-immune-system-regulatory-properties-beghelli/07939617c93e5dddbee466c6c555191b/

5. Riva, A., Morazzoni, P., Artaria, C., Allegrini, P., Meins, J., Savio, D., Appendino, G., Schubert-Zsilavecz, M., & Abdel-Tawab, M. (2016). A single-dose, randomized, cross-over, two-way, open-label study for comparing the absorption of boswellic acids and its lecithin formulation. Phytomedicine, 23(11), 1375-1382. https://consensus.app/papers/singledose-randomized-crossover-twoway-openlabel-study-riva/80c8fbc7a22352d99d9469d748106d2e/

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon or perceived as specific medical or veterinary advice.

We recognize there may be different points of view or opinions on some aspect or even the premise of this article. Our goal at LongTails is to provide the best, clearest, and most helpful information possible to help keep your dog happy, healthy and safe.