A report published in the Journal of Indian Pharmacology details the results of a study using Boswellia Serrata Extract and how Boswellia Serrata Extract was as effective as a selective COX-2 inhibitor in relieving pain due to osteoarthritis.
Over 65 individuals participated in this randomized, prospective, open label study. Participants were between the ages of 40 and 70 and had been diagnosed with primary osteoarthritis of the knee. Each individual was assigned to one of two groups. Group one received 333 mg of BSE (Boswellia Serrata Extract) three times daily. Group two received 10 mg of Valdecoxib, a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug, once daily. Participants were assessed using the WOMAC (Western Ontario and McMaster Univerisy Index) scale monthly. The study lasted 6 months. The participants were also assessed one additional time at month 7. The WOMAC is a common assessment used for osteoarthritis and uses 24 questions.
Researchers found that participants in group two (Valdecoxib) had statistically significant improvements after one month but any beneficial effects ended once the study ended. The participants in the BSE group saw a statistically significant improvement after two months and continued to experience beneficial effects at month 7.
As a side note, Valdecoxib has been banned in some countries due to serious cardiovascular and dermatological issues.
Boswellia Serrata has been used for a long time as an Ayurvedic medicine. Gum Resin a phyto nutrient found in Boswellia Serrata is believed to have analgesic, anti-arthritic, and anti-inflammatory properties. In other studies, Boswellia Serrata has been shown to be more effective than a placebo in relieving osteoarthritis symptoms in the knee.
Further studies will be needed.
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