The immunosuppressive effect of boswellic acid in managing the inflammation and symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis

Abstract

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a long-term inflammatory autoimmune condition that affects the skin and joints. It is associated with psoriasis, a skin disorder that causes red, scaly patches. If neglected, PsA can result in gradual joint deterioration, stiffness, oedema, and joint discomfort. In 30% of cases, psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a complicated inflammatory illness with varied clinical manifestations, exacerbates psoriasis. In addition to preventing outbreaks and slowing the course of PsA, current medical treatment methods can also aid people with their symptoms by using natural and alternative therapies. There is various herbal product used in the treatment management of PsA in which Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata) can be used as an alternate option for the management of inflammation and symptoms associated with PsA. The literature searched for reports of B. serrata and isolated BAs having anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, hypolipidemic, immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-asthmatic, and clastogenic activities. Boswellia serrata has a key active ingredient, Boswellic acids which shows potential for use in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) due to its strong anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties.Studies have shown significant improvements in joint pain, stiffness, and swelling with boswellic acid supplementation. Although specific studies on PsA are limited, the mechanisms of boswellic acid suggest its efficacy in reducing both joint and skin symptoms due to shared inflammatory pathways with other forms of arthritis.