Body Comfort from Boswellia, Curcumin, & MSM
The anti-inflammatory combination of boswellia, curcumin, and MSM not only supports joint comfort, but also has numerous other benefits, including promoting a healthy heart, liver, and digestive tract!
Boswellia -- Comfort from Anti-inflammatory Activity
Boswellia serrata is a moderate-to-large branching tree that is found in India, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. Strips of bark are peeled away, yielding a gummy oleo-resin, which contains oils, terpenoids, and gum. The terpenoid portion of the extract contains boswellic acids, the active constituents of boswellia.
Studies have shown boswellic acids bind to inflammatory enzymes in the body, and restrict their ability to reproduce. Promising results were observed in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, chronic colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, bronchial asthma and peritumoral brain edemas. Boswellic acids are thought to have the ability to act in very similar ways to conventional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators such as “leukotrienes.” But, unlike NSAIDs, extended use of boswellia does not irritate or ulcerate the stomach!
Observed benefits of boswellia include reduction in joint swelling, increased mobility, less morning stiffness, improved grip strength, and general improvement in quality of life for those with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and low back pain.
In a double blind study to assess the efficacy of boswellia serrata extract (BSE) in 30 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, all patients receiving treatment reported a decrease in knee pain, increased knee flexibility and increased comfort while walking distances. The frequency of swelling in the knee joint also decreased.
Curcumin (Turmeric) -- Reducing Stiffness, Warming Cold Hands & More
Curcumin is the active constituent of turmeric, the key ingredient, found in many curry dishes, which gives curry its distinct color and flavor. Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. Curcumin, in particular, has been shown to have numerous therapeutic effects, including potent antioxidant properties, adrenal support, and liver protection. Curcumin stimulates the gallbladder and bile duct, which may also support lower blood cholesterol.
Like boswellia, curcumin has also been shown to be effective in the relief of symptoms associated with joint discomfort (based on curcumin's anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity). Clinically, it was found to improve stiffness of joints, morning stiffness, walking time, and joint swelling.
Curcumin has also shown promise in the area of anti-cancer research, which is attributed in part to its powerful antioxidant activity. It is thought to interfere with cell signaling pathways involved in tumor cell growth, and studies have shown it to be effective in both the promotional and progression stages of colon, skin, and other forms of cancer. Some anecdotal information supports the use of Curcumin for cold hands syndrome (Raynauds syndrome).
Recent research is demonstrating that curcumin is also useful in supporting brain health, reducing oxidative damage and providing general neuroprotective benefits.
MSM for Joint & Tissue Comfort
MSM is thought to support joint comfort by relieving pressure at a cellular level -- by allowing toxins to go out and nutrients to come in -- thereby improving circulation.
MSM can help flush lactic acid and toxins (created from overexertion and known to cause discomfort) from cellular tissues.
Interestingly, MSM is also thought to support medications for arthritis by helping the medication reach the cells where it is needed. For more information on MSM, see our MSM product page.
