Gum Resin Research Articles

Optimizing the extraction of essential oil yield from Pistacia lentiscus oleo-gum resin by superheated steam extraction using response surface methodology

Pistacia lentiscus L. is an aromatic plant containing a significant percentage of essential oil (EO) used in fragrance, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food industry. The purpose of this work is focused on the optimization of Pistacia lentiscus L. oleo gum resin EO yield extracted by superheated steam extraction (SHSE) by response surface methodology, including extraction parameters of particle size (0. 5 − 1 mm), temperature (140–180 °C) and time (90–150 min). The optimum conditions for Pistacia lentiscus L. EO extracted by SHSE were found to be (particle size: 0.75 mm, time: 120 min and temperature: 160 ℃) which produced the highest EO yield of 5.7%. A regression model was developed, demonstrating a robust quadratic correlation with an R2 value of 0.9991, making it suitable for predictions. Furthermore, the yield of Pistacia lentiscus L. EO extracted by SHSE was compared with the conventional steam and hydro distillation techniques. The study revealed that SHSE yielded higher quantities of EO than other extraction methods. GC-MS analyzed the chemical composition of Pistacia lentiscus L. EO. The predominant compound of Pistacia lentiscus L. EO was determined to be α-pinene, while the other identified compounds include trans-verbenol, verbenol, cis-verbenone, camphene, β-myrcene, d-limonene, cymene, α-myrtenol, α-campholenal, α-copaene, and α-thujene, whose content differed according to different extraction techniques. Overall, superheated steam extraction is an efficient technique for extracting Pistacia lentiscus L. essential oil that enhances EO yield, requiring less time for extraction.

Integrating Epoxidation, High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry and Ultraviolet Spectroscopy to Unravel the Complex Profile of Boswellic Acids and Related Compounds in the Boswellia serrata Gum Resin Extract

The chemical characterization of natural products is often a complex task that demands powerful analytical techniques. Liquid chromatography with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (HRMS/MS) is often employed, yet it can face hard challenges when isomeric species are present, and reference standards are lacking. In such cases, the confidence level in compound identification can be significantly improved by the collection of orthogonal information on target analytes. In this work, 23 key compounds in Boswellia serrata extract (BSE), 12 of which correspond to boswellic acids (BAs) and 11 to triterpenoidic acid isomers, were identified by combining RPLC followed by serial UV and ESI(-)-FTMS and FTMS/MS detections with the evaluation of the reactivity towards C=C bond epoxidation with meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (m-CPBA), proposed as a fast chemical tool to gather information about C=C bond steric hindrance, a key structural feature of BAs and related compounds. The interpretation of UV spectra acquired after chromatographic separation corroborated the identification of the substitution patterns of enonic and dienic residues in ketoboswellic and dehydroboswellic acids. Moreover, MS/MS based on higher-energy collision-induced dissociation (HCD) unveiled new fragmentation pathways, providing important structural details on target analytes. The integrated approach developed during this study might pave the way for a deeper understanding of the BSE bioactive properties. Moreover, it can be considered an example of a more general strategy for the analysis of complex mixtures of natural compounds including also isomeric species.

Synergistic therapeutic effect of Guggul gum resin on antidiabetic activity of saxagliptin

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is an endocrine metabolic disorder leading to impaired glucose utilization. This disease is managed by both commercial drugs and herbal products eliciting various interactions. The evaluation of one such interaction between saxagliptin (SAXA, substrate of CYP3A4), and Guggul extract (GE) from Commiphora wightii is done in this present study. The concomitant administration of the SAXA with GE had restored the levels of otherwise increased blood glucose and biochemical parameters and otherwise decreased total glycogen and oxidative stress markers more effectively as compared to the solely consumed SAXA or GE. These results were corroborated by histopathological evaluation where the combination treatment showed better mitigation of hepatic, renal and pancreatic tissue damage that occurred due to induced diabetes. Furthermore, CYP3A11 mRNA (murine homolog to human CYP3A4) expression levels were observed to be reduced to non-diabetic levels in combination therapy which was otherwise unachievable. The molecular docking studies predicted improved interaction between CYP3A4 and bioactive content of GE, i.e., guggulsterone E-Z, possessing binding energy of −9.96 kcal/mol along with SAXA, confirming the co-existence of both the ligands at different binding sites of the metabolizing enzyme. The synergistic interactions of GE and SAXA helped in better restoration of tissue damage and increased CYP3A11 mRNA expression levels caused by induced diabetes.

Comparison of gum resin of Bombax malbaricum with Sucrose 24% for use in procedural pain in neonates

Comparison of gum resin of Bombax malbaricum with Sucrose 24% for use in procedural pain in neonates

Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Capsules Containing Gum Resin of Boswellia serrata.

Boswellia serrata (Sallaki) is one of the most popular herbs, belonging to the family Burseraceae, whose dietary and therapeutic potential has been practiced since ancient days mainly for the treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory disorders. The therapeutic activity of oleo gum resin is typically due to the presence of active constituents such as 11-keto-β-boswellic acid and 3-o-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid. The main objective of the present research work was to formulate and evaluate the Boswellia capsule. The plant B. serrata is the best traditional medicine for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis without causing any side-effects when compared to synthetic drugs (NSAIDs). The herbal capsules were formulated and evaluated. The prepared formulation was subjected to evaluations like physical appearance, pH, dissolution, disintegration and phytochemical screening.

PH-sensitive nanoformulation of acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) as a potential antiproliferative agent in colon adenocarcinoma (in vitro and in vivo)

BackgroundDeveloping a drug delivery system that can transport a higher concentration to the target cells can improve therapeutic efficacy. This study aimed to develop a novel delivery system for acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic Acid (AKBA) using chitosan-sodium alginate–calcium chloride (CS-SA-CaCl2) nanoparticles. The objectives were to evaluate the antiproliferative activity of these nanoparticles against colorectal cancer (CRC) cells and to improve the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of AKBA.ResultsWith an extraction efficiency of 12.64%, AKBA was successfully extracted from the gum resin of B. serrata. The nanoparticle delivery system exhibited superior cytotoxicity against HT29 cells compared to free AKBA, AKBA extract (BA-Ex), and 5-FU. Furthermore, the nanoformulation (nano-BA-Ex) induced apoptosis in HT29 cells more effectively than the other treatments. In vivo results showed that nanoformulation inhibited chemically induced colon tumorigenesis in mice and significantly reduced the number of aberrant crypt foci (ACFs).ConclusionsThe developed CS-SA-CaCl2 nanoparticles loaded with AKBA extract exhibit potential as a potent drug delivery mechanism for the colorectal cancer model. Nano-BA-Ex is a promising strategy for enhancing the solubility, bioavailability, and therapeutic efficacy of BA derivatives. With its multiple effects on cancer cells and controlled drug release through nanocapsules, nano-BA-Ex stands out as a compelling candidate for further preclinical and clinical evaluation in CRC therapy.

Antifungal activity of Myrrh gum resin against pathogenic Candida spp.

Medicinal plants have a long and significant history of being used for their healing properties. One famous example is Commiphora, which is mostly found in the southern part of Arabia. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a water-based extract obtained from two different varieties of myrrh in suppressing the proliferation of Candida spp. at different concentrations. The inhibitory activity of the aqueous extract of two different varieties of myrrh, commonly used in traditional medicine, was assessed against five pathogenic yeasts using the diffusion technique. Mass spectrum was used to analyze myrrh's chemical composition for antimicrobial effects. The aqueous extract of both tested species of myrrh (Commiphora myrrha and Commiphora molmol) showed inhibitory effects on all tested isolates. During the chemical examination of myrrh, it was noted that the material included 12 components known for their antimicrobial properties. The essential oil derived from two varieties of myrrh showed the most significant effects on Candida tropicalis (ATCC 66029), Candida guilliermondii (ATCC 6260), Candida laurentii (ATCC 18803), Candida neoformans (ATCC 66031), and Candida albicans (ATCC 14053). Analysis of chemical composition of the myrrh revealed 19 known components, of which 12 compounds have been proven by research to suppress the growth of microorganisms. C.myrrha and C.molmol aqueous extracts exhibit a promising antifungal effect against common Candida infections. The aqueous extracts present a variety of antimicrobial compounds; however, further research is necessary to elucidate the specific mechanisms of action of these compounds, and to evaluate their efficacy, toxicity and safety before considering their clinical application.

Anti-neoplastic Properties of Boswellic Acids and their Novel Semi-synthetic Analogs: In vitro, In vivo and Clinical Evidence

Introduction: Recently, Boswellia gum resin extract has been shown to exhibit therapeutic properties against multiple inflammatory illnesses, comprising arthritis, asthma, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and different malignancies. There are growing shreds of evidence that Boswellia extracts and their phytoconstituents could be used in adjuvant and combinatorial chemotherapeutic approaches for the management and prevention of cancer. Aim: The principal objective of this comprehensive investigation is to offer up-to-date and in-depth insights into the anticancer potential of boswellic acids along with their semisynthetic analog that are novel and preventive/therapeutic substitutes for the management of cancer and inflammatory diseases due to their strong potential. Materials and Methods: In the course of this review, a comprehensive compilation of In-vitro, Invivo, and clinical evidence on the antineoplastic potential of boswellic acids was assembled through systematic computerized searches utilizing platforms such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Sci-Hub, and Research Gate. Result: Boswellic acids, the key compounds found in the resin of nearly all the species of the Boswellia plant, have been reported to exhibit therapeutic effects by modulating various targets in different disease conditions. Moreover, semisynthetic derivatives of boswellic acids show strong cytotoxic effects, particularly those with cyanoenone moieties, endoperoxides, and hybrids, which exhibit enhanced potency. Conclusion: In this review, we have sincerely highlighted the effectiveness of novel boswellic acids as alternative preventive and therapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer and inflammatory conditions. Their strong anticancer potential could provide a basis for promising future direction to develop potent anticancer drugs for human malignancies.

Nephroprotective Effect of Ferula assa-foetida Oleo Gum Resin on Type 2 Diabetic Rats.

Diabetic nephropathy is one of the main causes of kidney failure in the end stage of diabetes worldwide. On the other hand, asafoetida is a gum whose hypoglycemic effects have been proven. The present study was conducted with the aim of using asafoetida to prevent diabetic nephropathy. Diabetes was induced by a high-fat diet (60%) and streptozotocin injection (35 mg/kg) in rats. Diabetic rats were treated with an oral dose of 50 mg/kg of asafoetida for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, serum and urine parameters were examined. Antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation levels in the kidney were also determined along with its histological examination. The expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and Transforming growth factor beta genes were also evaluated. Glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, and HbA1c concentrations were significantly reduced in the asafoetida 50. On the other hand, in the treatment group, serum creatinine, urea, and albumin levels decreased and increased in urine. Antioxidant enzymes in the kidney improved significantly, and the expression of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and transforming growth factor-beta genes decreased. Histopathological examination also showed that necrosis, epithelial damage, and leukocyte infiltration increased in the diabetic and decreased in the treatment group. The result of biochemical analysis, enzymatic, and histological examinations showed that asafoetida may delay the progression of diabetic nephropathy due to the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Preparation and characterization of gelatin‐pectin‐based active films incorporated with Styrax benzoin oleo gum resin

Preparation and characterization of gelatin‐pectin‐based active films incorporated with <i>Styrax benzoin</i> oleo gum resin

Impaired mitochondrial quality control in fibromyalgia: Mechanisms involved in skeletal muscle alteration

Fibromyalgia (FMS) is a persistent syndrome marked by widespread musculoskeletal pain and behavioural symptoms. Given the hypothesis linking FMS aetiology to mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, we examined the biochemical correlation among these factors by studying specific proteins associated with mitochondrial homeostasis in muscle. Additionally, this study investigated the role of Boswellia serrata gum resin extract (BS), known for its various functions, including the potent induction of antioxidant enzymes, in determining protective or reparative mechanisms in the muscle cells. Sprague–Dawley rats were injected with reserpine to induce FMS.These animals exhibited moderate changes in hind limb skeletal muscles, experiencing mobility difficulties. Additionally, there were noteworthy morphological and ultrastructural alterations, along with the expression of myogenin, mitochondrial enzymes and oxidative stress markers in the gastrocnemius muscle. Interestingly, BS demonstrated a reduction in spontaneous motor activity difficulties. Moreover, BS showed a positive impact on musculoskeletal morphostructural aspects, as well as a decrease in oxidative stress and mitochondrial alterations. In particular, BS restored the mRNA expression of citrate synthase and cytochrome-c oxidase subunit II and the activity of electron transfer chain complexes. BS also influenced mitochondrial biogenesis, upregulating PGC-1α expression and the related transcription factors (Nrf1, Tfam, Nrf2, FOXO3a, SIRT3, GCLC, NQO1, SOD2 and GPx4), oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation, GSH levels and GSH-Px activity) and mitochondrial dynamics and function (Mnf2 expression and CoQ10 levels). Overall, this study underlined the key role of the mitochondrial alteration in FMS and that BS had a very high antioxidant effect in these organelles and also in the cells.

Development of Foam Composites from Flax Gum-Filled Epoxy Resin

In the present work, an innovative range of foams based on flax gum-filled epoxy resin was developed, reinforced or not by flax fibers. Foams and composites with different gum and epoxy resin contents were produced and their mechanical and thermal performances were characterized. To enhance the organic flax gum filler’s cross-linking, we exploited the oxidized components’ reactivity with the amine hardener (isophorone diamine). We compared the materials obtained with those derived from the native components. The flax gum and fibers were primarily characterized by chemical analysis, NMR, and FTIR to evaluate the mild oxidation of the native materials. The formation of chemical bonds between the oxidized polymer chains, epoxy resin, and hardener was evidenced by FTIR, and the materials were then studied by SEM and X-ray computed micro-tomography (CT) and submitted to mechanical and thermal tests. The relevance of the oxidation treatment was highlighted through a significant increase in density and mechanical performance (+36% and +81%, respectively, for the 100% flax gum material). The positive effect of the flax fibers on homogeneity evidenced through micro-CT analysis was also clearly addressed. This set of promising results paves the way for the future development of fully flax-based insulation composite materials.

Characteristic cembrane-type diterpenoids with nitric oxide inhibitory activity from the gum resin of Boswellia carterii Birdw

Five new characteristic cembrane-type diterpenoids (olibacartiols A–E, 1–5) were acquired from the gum resin of Boswellia carterii. The structures of these diterpenoids were characterized by detailed spectroscopic analysis, and compounds 1–3 were unambiguously confirmed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments. The anti-inflammatory activities of the isolated compounds were evaluated using LPS-induced BV2 cell model and compounds 2–5 showed moderate NO inhibitory effects with IC50 values of 8.84 ± 1.02, 9.82 ± 1.95, 9.75 ± 2.24, and 7.39 ± 1.24 μM, respectively.

Clinical Case Report: Use of Essential Oils in Chronic Dermal Wound

Currently, there is a trend towards adopting treatments with more natural alternative products over synthetic ones. Essential oils are known for their numerous medicinal properties (from physical to emotional issues) and have been used by the population for millennia. They contain volatile compounds that have therapeutic properties. Their complex chemical composition provides plants with adaptive advantages in their environment and can be used as important active principles in products intended for human treatment. Essential oils also have antioxidant properties, preventing cellular damage and premature aging (such as lemon, lavender, and sweet orange essential oils, for example). Regarding antimicrobial properties, various essential oils have shown activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. For example, tea tree oil has been effective against various bacteria and fungi, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Candida albicans. Additionally, essential oils are widely used for analgesic purposes, such as peppermint, lavender, eucalyptus, and clove, or essential oils that can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and promote relaxation like lavender, sweet orange, bergamot, and ylang-ylang. Another interesting oil is used in important ingredients in incenses and perfumes, the extract from gum resins obtained from the Burseraceae family trees (Boswellia sp.) that have anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic effects. Chemical components like linalool, linalyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol, 1,8 cineole, pinenes, γ-terpinene, borneol, limonene, α-thujene, and menthol are some of the main components found in various essential oils. The most abundant phenol in oregano essential oil is a potent antibacterial agent. The aim was to report an individual clinical case, in home care, requested by a physical educator, of a female patient, leucoderma, 74 years old, residing in the State of São Paulo, presenting a chronic wound in the posteroinferior region of the right leg that was not responding to conventional methods (antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, analgesics, in addition to laser therapy) for more than two months. She also faced respiratory problems, sleep difficulties, mild depression, and reduced mobility. She reported being a controlled diabetic, hypertensive, and having occupational asthma. As a requested choice, aromatherapy was the sought treatment, and a protocol was established considering both physical and emotional aspects, recommending topical and aromatic use of essential oils of oregano, lavender, tea tree, frankincense, in addition to fractionated coconut and rosehip vegetable oils as diluents. After 47 days, the wound had healed, and the patient showed optimism and improved sleep quality. Aromatherapy offers a holistic and gentle approach to treating various conditions, and this case is an inspiring example of how essential oils can make a difference in people's lives. However, more clinical studies with a larger population are necessary to investigate the treatment's efficacy and safety.

Good intentions meet complex realities: CITES listing of diverse frankincense (Boswellia species) might do more harm than good

Frankincense gum resin is a globally traded forest product, likely generating more than $1 billion USD in value annually for its use in perfumery, medicines, and incense. It supports thousands of rural livelihoods in Somalia, Sudan, Ethiopia, India, and several other countries, where it is harvested from Boswellia trees. Recent research indicates unsustainable practices and population declines in both heavily and minimally traded species, prompting a review by the CITES Secretariat and consideration of potential listing of the genus (or species therein) in Appendix II. We argue that each of the 24 Boswellia species faces different circumstances and challenges with respect to trade and must be treated as an individual entity rather than being lumped together as part of a homogenous multi-species entity. The trade-conservation relationship for Boswellia species is not straightforward, with both positive and negative impacts of trade apparent, and interventions must account for this. CITES as a mechanism relies heavily on the infrastructure of exporting states, some of which suffer from limited resources, severe corruption, and existing trade suspensions. These limitations make CITES listing inappropriate as a conservation and regulatory tool. Tougher standards are needed, but without aiming for simple answers, we suggest that these are better implemented through importing country regulation driving private supply chain improvements rather than through exporting country-based CITES regulations. This can avoid foreseeable unintended negative consequences for both the conservation of different Boswellia species, populations, and the livelihoods of local communities frankincense tapping has supported for thousands of years.

Exploring the potential of Tamarindus indica stem short macro fibers reinforced guar gum resin green composites

In this study, Tamarindus indica stem fibers and guar gum resin matrix have been used for the production of green composites with varying fiber lengths of 4, 8, and 12 mm and fiber loading of 5%, 10%, and 15 wt%, by hand lay-up process. The green composites were subjected to Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, thermal, mechanical, fractography, and water absorption tests as per American Standard Testing of Materials standards. The composites displayed a significant absorption peak at 3303 cm−1, signifying the existence of a hydroxyl group, as indicated by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy. The thermogravimetric analysis results showed that the composites were thermally stable up to 225 °C and displayed an endothermic peak at 103 °C. Untreated 4 mm fiber length and 15% fiber loading in the matrix material resulted in superior tensile and flexural characteristics, with values of 23.87 and 33.21 MPa, respectively, compared to other green composites. The composite with a 12 mm fiber length and 5% fiber load exhibited the highest impact resistance, with a load of 75 kJ/mm2, and demonstrated better resistance to water absorption. Furthermore, an eco-friendly flowerpot was developed using the mechanically optimized US0415 green composite material under real-world conditions.

Evaluating the Anti-Osteoarthritis Potential of Standardized Boswellia serrata Gum Resin Extract in Alleviating Knee Joint Pathology and Inflammation in Osteoarthritis-Induced Models.

Osteoarthritis is a widespread chronic degenerative disease marked by the deterioration of articular cartilage, modifications in subchondral bone, and a spectrum of symptoms, including pain, stiffness, and disability. Ultimately, this condition impairs the patient's quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of standardized Boswellia serrata gum resin extract (BSRE) in a rat model of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced osteoarthritis. A total of 60 rats were allocated into six groups: normal control group (NC), osteoarthritis control (injected with MIA, OC), O + B50 (injected with MIA and treated with 50 mg/kg body weight (BW) BSRE), O + B75 (injected with MIA and treated with 75 mg/kg BW BSRE), O + B100 (injected with MIA and treated with 100 mg/kg BW BSRE), and O + M (injected with MIA and treated with 150 mg/kg BW methyl sulfonyl methane). Several parameters, including knee joint swelling, histopathological changes, and the expression of collagen type II alpha 1 (COL2A1) and aggrecan, were comprehensively assessed. Concurrently, the serum levels and mRNA expression of inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were analyzed in both the serum and knee joint synovium. The results demonstrated that BSRE significantly mitigated knee joint swelling, cartilage destruction, and tissue deformation. Notably, BSRE administration markedly upregulated the expression of COL2A1 and aggrecan while concurrently reducing levels of nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, leukotriene B4, interleukin (IL)-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Furthermore, a substantial decrease was observed in the mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, 5-lipoxygenase, IL-6, TNF-α and MMP-3 and -13, thereby indicating promising therapeutic implications for osteoarthritis. In conclusion, BSRE exhibited anti-inflammatory properties and inhibited cartilage matrix degradation in a rat model of MIA-induced osteoarthritis, with the O + B100 group showing significant reductions in swelling and notable improvements in joint cartilage damage. These findings illuminate the preventive and therapeutic potential of BSRE for osteoarthritis treatment, emphasizing the criticality of exhaustive evaluation of novel compounds.

The effect of Phytopaj ) Ferula assa-foetida L. oleo gum resin and tragacanth( in patients with COVID-19: A randomized clinical trial.

Exogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has a positive effect on respiratory diseases. Oleo-gum of Ferula assa-foetida contains this compound. This study assessed the effects of Ferula assa-foetida L. oleo gum resin and tragacanth (Phytopaj) on patients with COVID-19. A randomized, single-blinded, controlled trial (RCT) phase 2 was conducted in Mashhad on hospitalized COVID-19 patients. In this RCT, 122 patients were randomly assigned to either receive a 14-day oral phytopaj plus ordinary treatment or ordinary treatment only. Changes in peripheral blood lymphocyte count (LC) and blood oxygen saturation (PO2) were the endpoints. Mean±SD of PO2 in Phytopaj comparison ordinary treatment before intervention was 91.86±4.62 and 91.41±9.18, after the intervention it was 93.22±4.26 and 91.91±5.92 mmHg; before intervention, mean±SD of peripheral blood lymphocyte count was 1015.90±500.55, and 1104.28±543.61, and after intervention, it was 1652.27±921.38 and 1326.12±719.28/μL respectively. Phyopaj is most useful in moderate stages of Covid19, and it is not recommended for elderly patients and patients with comorbidity until more insight is gained.

Autophagy machinery plays an essential role in traumatic brain injury-induced apoptosis and its related behavioral abnormalities in mice: focus on Boswellia Sacra gum resin.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is described as a structural damage or physiological disturbance of brain function that occurs after trauma and causes disability or death in people of all ages. New treatment targets for TBI are being explored because current medicines are frequently ineffectual and poorly tolerated. There is increasing evidence that following TBI, there are widespread changes in autophagy-related proteins in both experimental and clinical settings. The current study investigated if Boswellia Sacra Gum Resin (BSR) treatment (500mg/kg) could modulate post-TBI neuronal autophagy and protein expression, as well as whether BSR could markedly improve functional recovery in a mouse model of TBI. Taken together our results shows for the first time that BSR limits histological alteration, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant, cytokines release and autophagic flux alteration induced by TBI.

A standardized Boswellia serrata extract shows improvements in knee osteoarthritis within five days-a double-blind, randomized, three-arm, parallel-group, multi-center, placebo-controlled trial.

Boswellin® Super is a standardized extract of Boswellia serrata Roxb gum resin, standardized to contain 30% 3-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid along with other β-boswellic acids (BSE). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted at two doses of BSE to understand its safety and efficacy in supporting joint health and improving mobility and symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. Based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 105 newly diagnosed participants with degenerative hypertrophy OA were recruited and randomized into Placebo, BSE-150mg or BSE-300mg (n = 35 in each group) to receive either 150mg or 300mg BSE or a placebo tablet twice a day for 90days. All the participants were evaluated for pain and physical function using the standard tools including the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Lequesne Functional Index (LFI), EuroQol- 5 Dimension (EQ-5D) quality of life, 6-min walk test at day 0, days 5, 30, 60 and 90 of treatment. Additionally, the circulating levels of inflammatory biomarkers, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were evaluated. Safety was evaluated by blood biochemical, hematological analysis, urinary analyses and by monitoring adverse events throughout the study. Ninety-eight subjects completed the study. Improvements in pain scores were observed as early as 5days after the start of the supplement in the BSE-150 and BSE-300 groups. By 90days, the VAS pain score reduced by 45.3% and 61.9%, WOMAC- total score improved by 68.5% and 73.6% in the BSE-150 and BSE-300 groups respectively. WOMAC pain (70.2%, 73.9%, WOMAC stiffness (65.6%,68.9%), WOMAC function (68.8%,74.2%), LFI severity (50%,53.3%), decreased and EQ5D (56.9%, 62.9%) and distance walked in 6minutes (21.2%, 21.9%) improved in the BSE-150 and BSE-300 groups in 90 days. Further, the levels of TNFα, hs-CRP, and IL-6 were found to decrease in the serum in BSE-supplemented participants. No significant adverse events were recorded during the study. The study confirms that Boswellin® Super can be used as a safe and effective supplement to support joint health and mobility in the management of osteoarthritis. https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?EncHid=NzU2Nzc=&Enc=&userName=CTRI, identifier CTRI/2022/11/047397.