Assessment of mutagenicity of Boswellia serrata extract (Boswegex®) using Bacterial Reverse Mutation test method

Abstract

Background: Extracted from the Indian branching tree Boswellia serrata, boswellic acids derived from the plant's resin hold promise in addressing inflammation, arthritis, and hyperlipidemia. Objective: In this study, the mutagenicity of B. serrata (Boswegex®) is evaluated. Materials and Methods: The potential genotoxic and mutagenic effects of Boswellia serrata's aqueous ethanolic extract, known as Boswegex®, were explored using a bacterial reverse mutation assay against Salmonella strains TA98, TA100, TA102, TA1535, and TA1537. Different concentrations ranging from 500 to 6000 μg/plate were tested using both Method 1 (Standard plate incorporation assay) and Method 2 (pre-incubation assay), with DMSO (Dimethyl sulfoxide) as the solvent control. The positive control, 2-aminoanthracene, was used alongside a metabolic activator (S-9 fraction). Given the prolonged use of supplements, an assessment for mutagenicity is vital. In this context, the mutagenicity of B. serrata (Boswegex®) was evaluated through the in vitro Bacterial Reverse Mutation Test, employing both the Standard Plate Incorporation Assay and the pre-incubation assay. Results: Notably, none of the mutagenic assays revealed a mutagenicity increase over background levels. Conclusion: These findings collectively indicate that Boswellia serrata (Boswegex®) does not exhibit mutagenic properties.