High potency and water dispersible Boswellia extract reduces pain and inflammation in subjects with osteoarthritis of the knee

BACKGROUND: Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, is a medicinal plant that has been used since ancient times in the traditional Indian medicine system, Ayurveda. Historically, Boswellia extract has been used to treat pain associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and tendonitis. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 subjects aged 40 to 75 years, with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis received either 100 mg once daily of standardized natural Boswellia extract (OLNP-27) or placebo for 8-weeks. The subjects were monitored for outcome measures such as total Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score, WOMAC subscales (pain, stiffness, and physical function) score and visual analogue score on day 7, 15, 30, and 60 post supplementation. RESULTS: OLNP-27 significantly (P < .05) reduced the total WOMAC score, pain score, stiffness score, visual analogue score score and improved the physical function than the placebo. OLNP-27 also decreased the inflammatory marker high-sensitivity-CRP significantly compared to placebo group. The statistically significant reduction in pain and stiffness was observed as quickly as 7 days of supplementation with OLNP-27 indicating the quick onset of action. It also was found to be safe and well tolerated during this study. CONCLUSION: Based on the current study findings, it can be concluded that OLNP-27 is an effective and safe natural option for the management of symptoms associated with osteoarthritis of the knee.