Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 02 (03); 2012: 148-156

ISSN: 2231-3354
Received on: 22-02-2012
A review on Phytochemical and Pharmacological
Revised on: 03-03-2012
Accepted on: 13-03-2012
studies of Kundur (Boswellia serrata Roxb ex
Colebr.) -A Unani drug

Mahe Alam, Hakimuddin Khan, L. Samiullah and K.M. Siddique

ABSTRACT

Oleo-gum resin of Boswellia serrata Roxb ex Colebr. (Burseraceae) called Kundur in

Unani system of Medicine is a prime ingredient in modern quality perfumes. The gum is
Mahe Alam, Hakimuddin Khan, popularly used in Indian Systems of Medicine (Unani, Ayurvedic & Sidha) for the last several
L. Samiullah
centuries in curing various aliment especially rheumatism and skin diseases. Kundur is one of the
Regional research Institute of Unani
Medicine, Bhadrak-756100, Odisha,
popular drugs for various ailments such as dysentery, dyspepsia, lung diseases, haemorrhoids,
India rheumatism, urinary disorders and corneal ulcer in Unani system of medicine for the last several
years. It is also an ingredient in certain compound formulations viz: Majoon Kundur, Majoon
Murawwah-ul-Arwah, Dawa-ul-Kibrit and Habbe Suzak of Unani medicine used in renal
disorders. The studies carried out on Kundur (Boswellia serrata Roxb) reveal that Oleo-gum
resin exhibits potent Anti-fungal, Anti-complementary, Juvenomimetic and Anti-carcinogenic
properties. Investigations on Kundur also revealed its beneficial effects in Immunomodulation,
K.M. Siddique Bronchial asthma, Polyarthritis, Hepatitis C-virus, Colitis and Crohn's disease.
Central council for Research in Unani Phytochemistry and pharmacology on Kundur (Oleo-gum resin) of Boswellia serrata
Medicine, Janakpuri-58, New Delhi, Roxb has been reviewed in this paper with the view to justify its recorded uses in Unani System
India of Medicine on scientific lines.

Keywords: Kundur, Boswellia serrata, Unani drug, Phytochemistry.

INTRODUCTION

Boswellia serrata Roxb ex Colebr (Kundur) belonging to family Burseraceae, is

commonly known as ‘Salai’ or ‘Salia’ in Orissa. The tree is commonly found in West Asia, Oman,
Yemen, South Africa, Southern Arabia and many parts of India (Western Himalayas, Rajasthan,
Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa). A medium to large sized, deciduous tree;
up to 18m in height and 2.4m in the girth (normally 1.5m); The bark of this plant is thin, greenish
grey, yellow or reddish and finally turning to ash colour, peeling off in smooth, exfoliating papery
flakes; blaze pinkish and exuding small drops of resin (Saxena & Brahmam, 1994). The leaves
alternate, imparipinnate, 30-45 cm long, ex-stipulate and crowded at the end of the branches. The
leaflets are 2.5-6.3 x 1.2-3.0cm, ovate or ovate-lanceolate, 8-15 in number, nearly sessile with
For Correspondence
short toothed, mostly pubescent. The flowers are bisexual, small, white in axillary racemes or
Dr. Mahe Alam panicles at the tip of the branches. The calyx is small cupular and 5-6 lobed. The petals are 0.5-0.8
Regional Research Institute of cm oblong-ovate with basal disk. (Dymock et al., 1972; Anonymous, 1988). The fruits are
Unani Medicine (RRIUM)
Motel Chhak, Mahta Sahi, cotyledous, trifed, 1.25 cm long, trigonous, splitting into three valves. Seeds are heart-shaped and
Bhardak-756100, Orissa, INDIA attached to the inner angle of the fruit, compressed, pendulous.
 Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 02 (03); 2012: 148-156

OLEO-GUM-RESIN last several years (Azam, 1885; Ghani, 1917; Ibne Sina, 1912). It is
also an ingredient in certain compound formulations viz: Majoon
It is an exudate, which comes out from cortex after an
Kundur, Majoon Murawwah-ul-Arwah, Dawa-ul-Kibrit and Habbe
injury or natural crack in the bark. It is fragrant, transparent and
Suzak of Unani medicine used in renal disorders (Nigrami, 1995;
golden yellow. After solidification it turns into brownish yellow
Lubhaya, 1979). Oleo-gum resin of Boswellia serrata Roxb
tears or drops and crusts. Its size varies from pea size to walnut
(Kundur) possesses Anti-fungal (Garg, 1974), Anti-complementary
size. The smell is agreeable. The oleo-gum-resin is tapped by
(Kapil and Moza, 1992), Juvenomimetic (Dennis et al., 1999) and
shaving off a thin band of bark about 20 cm wide and 30 cm long,
Anti-carcinogenic properties (Huang et al., 2000). Investigations
at a height of 15 cm from the base of the tree. This initial blaze
on Kundur revealed its beneficial effects in Immunomodulation
should be made to a depth of about half the thickness of the bark,
(Sharma et al., 1996), Bronchial asthma (Gupta et al., 1998),
viz. up to 0.75 cm. Tapping should start from November and
Polyarthritis (Sander et al., 1998), Hepatitis C-virus (Hussein et al.,
stopped before the monsoon. The number of blazes required
2000), Colitis (Gupta et al., 2001) and Crohn's disease (Gerhardt et
depends upon the girth of the tree. For a tree of 90 cm girth, one
al., 2001)
blaze may be made, and for every increase of 50 cm girth one more
blaze may be added. Blazes may be made horizontally leaving
MIZAJ (TEMPERAMENT)
approximately equal space between them. The length or height of
the blaze is to be increased by about 1.6 cm in fortnightly and 0.81. The temperament (mizaj) of Kundur (Boswellia serrata) is
cm in weekly freshening every time on the upper edge. The surface mentioned as Hot1 Dry2 temperament.
already blazed or freshened may not be scraped. For continuous
tapping on a 3-year cycle, the bole may be divided into three zones, Action (Afal)
each one being tapped for one year. For making another horizontal Kundur (Oleo-gum resin of Boswellia serrata) is recorded
row of blazes in the subsequent year 7.5 cm space may be left as Dafe humma (Antipyretic), Dafe khafqan (Palpitation), Dafe
above the blazed portions. The horizontal blazes of the subsequent Tafun (Antiseptic), Mudire haiz (Emmenagogue), Muhallile auram
years should be alternating or staggering with the preceding ones. (Anti-inflammatory), Muhallile reyah (Carminative), Muhallile
Again alternating the blazes within the same zone, the blazed Khoone Munjamid (Thrombolytic), Muharrike dam
portions may be given complete rest for six years during which (Haemodynamic), Muhazil (Antiobesity), Muqavvie bah
period the wounds heal up and are ready for fresh tapping. (Aphrodisiac), Muqavvie Qalb (Cardiotonic), Qatile kirm
The oleo-gum-resin is scrapped off and collected in a circular tray (Antihelmenthic), and Tiryaq (Antidote) in classical Unani texts
suitably placed around the trunk. It is collected in a semi-solid state
and the vegetable impurities are manually removed. It is then kept Istemal (Therapeutic uses)
in baskets up to 30 days on a cemented and sloping floor, whence Kundur (Oleo-gum resin of Boswellia serrata) is used for
the fluid portion containing the volatile oil is collected and used in the treatment of Amraze jild (Skin diseases), Atshak (Syphilis),
paints and varnishes. The remaining semi-solid to solid part is Nafe kasrate boul (Polyuria), Nafe suzak (Gonorrhoea), Nafe
mainly gum-resin which is thoroughly dried and sometimes treated Ziabetes (Diabetes), Simane mufrat (Anti-obesity), and Wajaul
with soapstone powder to make it brittle. It is then broken into mufasil (Arthritis), (Sheerazi, 1913; Ibne Rushd, 1980, Ibne Sina,
small pieces, cleaned and graded for marketing. 1912, Azam Khan, 1314; Singh D., 1949; Ghani N., 1917 Kirtikar
Following kinds of oleo-gum-resin (Kundur) have been described & Basu, 1995; Varier’s, 1994; Nadkarni, 1976; Asolkar, L.V.,
in Unani literature:- 1992; Chopra, R. N., 1986; Dymock, 1976; Anonymous, 1988;)
1. Kundur-unsa (Female), Deep pale tears 2. Kundur-
zakar (Male) Yellow tea 3. Kundur Mudahraj Artificial tears 4. PHYTOCHEMICAL STUDIES
Kishar Kundur (Karfa) (It contains bark or scurf tears) and 5. The chemistry of Kundur (oleo gum resin) of Boswellia
Kundur Dukak Dust of gum According to Unani philosophers serrata is now thoroughly worked out. Sample of oleo gum resin
‘Kundur zakar’ mentioned at serial number 2 above, is red in analysed by Imperial Institute London showed following
colour, considered the best in quality and can be stored up to 20 composition:-Moisture – 10 – 11%, volatile oil 8 – 9% resin 55 –
years. It is also mentioned that the Kundur unsa is white and 57%, Gum 20 – 23%, Insoluble matter 4 – 5%. (Try and find some
mostly found in India. Usually the gum is white or yellow in colour recent reference for analysis of Kundur. The constituents can be
but when old, it become ruby or blackish-red or some time golden grouped as under: A: Oil, B. Terpenoids and Gum
colour. The smell of ‘Kundur-Zakar’ is very similar to the smell of
Mastagi (Pistacia trebinthus Linn.). The purity can be checked by A. Oil
the burning of the gum which gives the flames, while adulterated The fixed oil is usually pale yellow in colour and has an
gum gives only smoke. (Afaq & Siddiqui, 1984; Ghani N, 1917; agreeable odour. Essential oil is obtained in yield of up to 16%
Ibne Sena, 1912; Azam Khan, 1895; Nadkarni, 1976; Anonymous, oleo-gum-resin by steam distillation. The specific gravity of
1988) Kundur is being used for various ailments such as dysentery, 0 0

dyspepsia, lung diseases, haemorrhoids, rheumatism, urinary essential oil is 0.8470;

[]28
D , +240; n 28
D , 1.4574; acid value,

disorders and corneal ulcer in Unani system of medicine for the 0.76; ester value, 8.5; ester value after acetylation, 42.8; and iodine
 Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 02 (03); 2012: 148-156

value, 182 (Anonymous, 1984).  and –pinenes were reported as (Gupta et al., 1984) for the estimation of total triterpene acids
the main constituents of oil (Pearson and Singh, 1918) . Simonson present in different forms of B. serrata on the basis of -boswellic
(1922) studied the low boiling fractions of the oil and found - acid which constitutes more than 30% of the total triterpene acids.
thujene and major constituent –pinenes and –phellandrene in Total triterpene acids include -boswellic, 11 ketoboswellic and
small quantities. High boiling fractions worked out in detail by the acetyl 11-keto -boswellic acids. Estimation of triterpene acids
presence of terpenol, methyl chavicol and sesquiterpenes as the alone or in combination of two was done using functional groups
major components. On the basis of spectral data and analysis. The functional groups analyzed were acetyl and hydroxyl
interconversion isolation of acetyl--boswellic acid has also been groups at 3 position and keto group at the 11-position.
reported. The methods for separation of essential oil, resin & gum,
characteristics and uses of essential oil. (Winterstein et al., 1932). C. Gum
The physico-chemical characteristics of oil are quite variable Analysis of Oleo-gum resin yielded: Moisture 10-11%,
because of the diversified sources. The constituents of the oil are volatile oil 8-9% resin 55-57%, Gum 20-23%, insoluble matter 4-
-pinene dipentene, phellendrene, cadinene, camphene, p-cymene, 5%, (Fowler et al., 1921, 1925) have given methods of separation
d-borneol, verbenone and verbenol. Girgune et al., (1979) have of the oleo gum resin into its various constituents and have also
examined gum enzymes as diastase and oxidase. The gum contains
reported the presence of -thujene (50%), -pinene 6.2%, d-
0.16% of nitrogen. Malandkar, 1925 has hydrolyzed the gum by
limonene (4.5%), p-cymene (14%), cadinene (4%), geraniol (0.8%)
heating it with 3% H2SO4 for 8 hours and identified sugars as
and elemol (1.3%) as the main constituents of the essential oil. The
arabinose, xylose and galactose. Sharma et al., 1980 revealed that
 and -pinenes, and d-emonene as the major constituents. In the
the emulsion prepared from B. serrata was slightly better than
presence of terpinyl acetate 3.5%, methyl chavical 2%, linalool
those prepared with acacia gum. Emulsifying properties of Na- -
1.5% and terpinol 1% is reported (Anonymous, 1988).
Boswellata, which was found suitable for the preparation of
Composition of essential oil prepared by steam distillation (Abdel
emulsions for internal administration has been reported. Tablets
Wahab S. M. et al., 1987).
prepared with 9% B.serrata mucilage were comparable to those
prepared with 5% Acacia mucilage. Ashis et al., 1992 isolated 4-
B. Terpenoids O-methyl-glucuronoarabinogalactan from the water soluble protein
Three triterpene acids,  and --boswellic acids by the of gum resin.
use of barium hydroxide as precipitant. The constitution of  & 
Boswellic acids have been described (Simpson et al., 1938, 1941). PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES
Ruzicka et al., 1940 converted -boswellic acid into -amyrin. Analgesic and Psychopharmacological effects
They prepared surfactants from these acids. Bilhma et al., 1942 The Boswellia serrata (Kundur) exhibited marked
have assigned the position of –COOH group in -boswellic acid. analgesic activity in experimental animals in addition to its
Ruzicka et al., 1944 carried out various reactions in the ring A & B sedative effect. Boswellia serrata (Kundur) have found that it
of the Boswellic acid and its derivatives. Beton et al., 1956 have produces reduction in the spontaneous motor activity and causes
described the chemistry of triterpene and related compounds with ptosis in rats (Menon & Kar 1969).
special reference to isolation of -boswellic acid. A review with
Anti-complementary activity of boswellic acids (BA) –an
emphasis on Boswellic acid and abietic acids have been written by
inhibitor of C3-convertase
(Sharma et al., 1962; Budzikiewiz et al., 1963) which describes the
Boswellia serrata (Kundur) is found to possess anti-
NMR and Mass spectrometry of triterpenes. -sitosterol from the
complementary activity. It inhibited in vitro immunohaemolysis of
bark of B. serrata has been isolated (Beri et al., 1963, 1964).
antibody-coated sheep erythrocytes by pooled guinea-pig serum.
Critical examination of the non volatile fraction of the resin has
The reduced immunohaemolysis was found to be due to inhibition
been done by (Pardhy et al., 1978) and has led to the isolation of
of C3-convertase of the classical complement pathway. The
terpene acids and several neutral products including methyl
threshold concentration for inhibiting C3-convertase was found to
chavicol, - and 3-amyrins and a new diterpene alcohol serratol,
be 100 micrograms. However, higher concentrations of BA showed
four tetracyclic triterpene acids and four pentacyclic triterpene
constant inhibitory effects on immunohaemolysis. BA also
acids viz. 3--acetoxytirucall-8, 24-dien-2l-oic acid (C32 H50O4,
exhibited weak inhibitory effects on individual components of the
m.p.2200), 3-ketotirucall-8, 24-dien-21-oic acid (C30H46O3,
complement system. In vivo administration of BA also showed the
m.p.2120), 3--hydroxytirucall-8, 24-dien-21-oic acid, 3-- inhibitory effect on guinea-pig serum. (Kapil A. & Moza N., 1992)
hydroxytirucall-8, 24-dien-21-oic acid (C30H48O3, m.p.1980), -
boswellic acid, acetyl--boswellic acid (C32H48O4, m.p.2530), Antifungal activity of B. serrata
acetyl-11-keto--boswellic acid (C32H48O5, m.p.2710) and 11-keto- Boswellia serrata yield 0.6 percent of essential oil upon
-boswellic acid (C30H46O4, m.p.1950). Two new triterpenoids, 2- hydrodistillation. The oil has weak antifungal activity against
3-dihydroxy-urs-12-ene-24-oic acid and urs-12-ene-3, 24-diol, human pathogens, and highly effective against plant pathogens,
have been isolated from the gum resin of boswellia serrata (Babita where it inhibited the tested organisms viz. Pytophothora
Mahajan, 1995). Non aqueous titrimetric method was developed by parasifica. (Garg S.C. et al., 1974).
 Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 02 (03); 2012: 148-156

Anti-hyperlipidmic Activity rats. The biosynthesis of sulfated glycosaminoglycan evaluated by

Serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels, deposits of fat, the uptake of [35S] sulfate, and the content of glycosaminoglycan
in different organs and area of body of the rabbit, fed on high were measured in specimens of skin, liver, kidney and spleen.
cholesterol and saturated fat containing diet, was noted and found Statistical analysis of the data obtained with respect to the
the deposits in various organs including iris was significantly less boswellic acids and salai guggal were compared with those of
marked in the Salai gum treated group. The protective effect was ketoprofen. A significant reduction in glycosaminoglycan
established, whereas, several effects was also confirmed in the biosynthesis was observed in rats treated with all of the drugs.
other experiments. The effect was probably at the biosynthesis Glycosaminoglycan content was found to be decreased in the
level. This mechanism of action was studied by incorporating the ketoprofen-treated group, where as that of the boswellic acids or
U-C14 acetate in cholesterol biosynthesis. They also suggested that salai guggal treated groups remained unaltered. The catabolism of
Salai gum is mainly effective in checking the rats of biosynthesis glycosaminoglycan was followed by estimating the activities of
and partly effective in enhancing the excretion of cholesterol lysosomal glycohydrolases, namely be glucuronidase, beta-N-
(Zutshi et al., 1980). The alcoholic extract, tested at different dose acetylglucosaminidase, cathepsin B1, cathpsin B2 at cathepsin D,
level in 25-50 mg/kg. p.o. doses, shows anti-hyperlipidemic in tissues and by estimating the urinary excretion and hexosami
activity on hypercholesterolinic animals decrease the 30-50% in and uronic acid. The degradation of glycosaminoglycan was found
cholesterol level and 20-60% triglycerides level. to be reduced markedly in all drug-treated animals as compared to
controls. The potential significance of boswellic acids and salai
Anti-artherosclerotic agent guggal was discussed in the light of changes in the metabolism of
The anti-artherosclerotic activity was taken up in rabbits glycosaminoglycan. (Reddy, G.K. et al., 1989).
fed on the diet containing cholesterol and saturated fat. Four Curcumine from Curcuma longa and the gum resin of
groups of rabbits (five in each group) were employed and kept on Boswellia serrata, which was demonstrated to act as anti-
high liquid diet for three months. DAESG treatment was started on inflammatory in in-vivo animal models, was studied in a set of in
day 50 in one group, day 90 in second and continued up to day vitro experiments in order to elucidate the mechanism of their
150. The other two served as controls. Serum cholesterol and beneficial effects. Curcumine inhibited the 5-lipoxygenase activity
triglycerides levels, deposits of fat in different organs and areas of in rat peritoneal neutrophils as well as the 12-lipoxygenase and the
the body including that in iris was significantly less marked in cyclooxygenase activities in human platelets. In a cell free
DAESG treated group as compared to control. Anti- peroxidation system curcumine exerted strong antioxidative
artherosclerotic studies made on rabbits fed on high lipid diet for activity. Thus, its effects on the dioxygenases is probably due to its
three months showed that treatment with DAESG decreased serum reducing capacity. Boswellic acids was isolated from the gum resin
cholesterol and triglyceride levels by 32-46% and 53-62% of Boswellia serrata and identified as the active principles.
respectively, monitored at weekly intervals. DAESG treatment Boswellic acids inhibited the leukotriene synthesis via 5-
showed both prevention and reversal of artheroscelortic process as lipoxygenase, but did not affect the 12-lipoxygenase and the
was evident from the start of high lipid diet (Atal et al., 1980, cyclooxygenase activities. Additionally, boswellic acids did not
1981). impair the peroxidation of arachidonic acid by iron and ascorbate.
The data suggest that boswellic acids are specific, non-redox
Anti-inflammatory and Anti-arthritic activities inhibitors of leukotriene synthesis either interacting directly with 5-
Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities have been lipoxygenase or blocking its translocation. (Ammon, H.P. et al.,
tested against carrageen in-induced paw oedema adjuvant arthritis 1993; Singh, G. B., 1992)
in rats. DAESG treatment caused inhibition of the carrageen in
induced rat hind paw oedema by 39.75% and 65-73%, Anti-microbial and anti-oxidant effect
administered orally (p.o) in dose ranges of 50-200 mg per kg-1 and The essential oil of Boswellia serrata was analysed by GC
interaperitoneal (i.p.) in dose range of 50-100 mg per kg and GC-MS, and their antimicrobial and anti-oxidant activity
respectively compared to 47% inhibition seen with phenylbutazone tested. The volatile oil exhibited considerable inhibitory effect
(50 mg/kg-1 p.o.). The anti-inflammatory effect was equally well against all tested organisms. The oil also demonstrated anti-oxidant
marked in adrenalectomized rats. In the anti-arthritic study on the activity comparable with alpha-tocopherol and butylated
mycobacterial adjuvant-induced poly-arthritis in rats, salai guggal hydroxytoluene (BHT). (Baratta M. T. et al., 1998) Extracts of
showed 34% and 49% inhibition of paw swelling with 50 and 100 gum resins was found to be active against six text organisms-
mg per kg (p.o.) doses respectively as compared to controls. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella species,
Phenyl butazone in doses of 50 and 100 mg per kg (p.o.) showed Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis and Bacillus subtilis.
26% and 60% inhibition respectively. (Atal, et al., 1980-1981) (Mishra et al., 1980)
The in vivo effect of a herbal based, non-steroidal anti-
inflammatory product salai guggal, prepared from the gum resin Anti-tumor and anti-carcinogenic activities
exudates of Boswellia serrata active principle ‘boswellic acids” on Boswellin (BE), a methanol extract of the gum resin
glycosaminoglycan metabolism has been studied in male albino exudates of Boswellia serrata, contains naturally occurring
 Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 02 (03); 2012: 148-156

triterpenoids, beta-boswellic acid and its structural related illness, bronchial asthma, of 9.58 +/- 6.07 years were treated with a
derivatives. Topical application of BE to the backs of mice preparation of gum resin of 300 mg thrice daily for a period of 6
markedly inhibited 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) - weeks. 70% of patients showed improvement of disease as evident
induced increase in skin inflammation, epidermal proliferation, the by disappearance of physical symptoms and signs such as
number of epidermal cell layers and tumor promotion in 7, 12- dysponea, rhonchi, number of attacks, increase in FEV subset l,
dimethylbenz[a] anthracene (DMBA)-initiated mice. Feeding 0.2% FVC and PEFR as well as decrease in eosinophilic count and ESR.
of BE in the diet to CF-1 mice for 10-24 weeks reduced the In the control group of 40 patients 16 males and 24 females in the
accumulation of parametrial fat pad weight under the abdomen, age range of 14-58 years with mean of 32.95 +/- 12.68 were treated
and inhibited azoxymethane (AOM)-induced formation of aberrant with lactose 300 mg thrice daily for 6 weeks. Only 27% of patients
crypt foci (ACF) by 46%. Addition of pure beta boswellic acid, 3- in the control group showed improvement. The data show a
O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid, 11-keto-beta-boswellic acid or 3-O- definite role of gum resin of Boswellia serrata in the treatment of
acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid to human leukemia HL-60 cell bronchial asthma. (Gupta et al., 1998; Miller et al., 2001).
culture inhibited DNA synthesis in HL-60 cells in a dose
dependent manner with IC50 values ranging from 0.6 to 7.1 Effects of Boswellic acids extracted on autoimmune
microM. These results indicate that beta-boswellic acid and its encephalomyelitis
derivatives (the major constituents of Boswellin) have anti- Mixed acetyl boswellic acids, pentacyclic triterpenes
carcinogenic, anti-tumor and anti-hyperlipidemic activities. extracted from the gum resin of Boswellia serrata Roxb.,
(Huang, M.T. et a.l, 2000). significantly inhibited the ionophore-stimulated release of the
leukotrienes (LT) B4 and C4 from intact human
Effects of Boswellia serrata in Chronic colitis polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes (PMNLs), with IC50
Patients studied were suffered from chronic colitis values of 8.48 micrograms/ml and 8.43 micrograms/ml,
characterized by vague lower abdominal pain, bleeding per rectum respectively. Purified acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid was about
with diarrhoea and palpable tender descending and sigmoid colon. three times more potent as inhibitor of the formation of both LTB4
The inflammatory process in colitis is associated with increased (IC50 = 2.53 micrograms/ml) and LTC4 (IC50=2.26
formation of leukotrienes causing chemotaxis, chemokinesis, micrograms/ml) from human PMNLs in the same assay. The
synthesis of superoxide radicals and release of lysosomal enzymes comparative agent MK 886 (3-[1-(4-chlorobenzyl)-3-t-butyl-thio-
by phagocytes. The key enzyme for leukotriene biosynthesis is 5- 5-isopropylindol-2-yl-]-2, 2-dimethylpropanoic acid, L-663, 536,
lipoxygenase. Boswellic acids were found to be non-redox, non- CAS 118, 414-82-7) was about 10 to 100-fold more active than the
competitive specific inhibitors of the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase. The boswellic acids in inhibiting. The formation of 5-lipoxygenase
gum resin of Boswellia serrata was studied for the treatment of this products in human PMNLs, with IC50 values of 0.0068
disease. Thirty patients, 17 males and 13 females in the age range microgram/ml (LTB4) and 0.49 microgram/ml (LTC4). After daily
of 18 to 48 years with chronic colitis were included in this study. intraperitoneal dosage the extract of mixed acetyl boswellic acids
Twenty patients were given a preparation of the gum resin of (20 mg/kg) significantly reduced the clinical symptoms in guinea
Boswellia serrata (900 mg daily divided in three doses for 6 pigs with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE)
weeks) and ten patients were given sulfasalazine (3gm daily between days 11 and 21. However, the inflammatory infiltrates in
divided in three doses for 6 weeks) and served as controls. Out of the brain and the spinal cord were not significantly less extensive
20 patients treated with Boswellia gum resin 18 patients showed an in the treated animals than in the respective control group. The
improvement in one or more of the parameters; including stool multiple intraperitoneal application of boswellic acids did not
properties, histopathology as well as scanning electron microscopy, inhibit the ionophore-challenged ex vivo release of leukotrienes B4
besides haemoglobin, serum iron, calcium, phosphorus, proteins, and C4 from PMNLs separated from the blood of guinea pigs with
total leukocytes and eosinophils. In the control group 6 out of 10 EAE. The boswellic acids have been characterized as selective,
patients showed similar results with the same parameters. Out of non-redox and potent inhibitors of the biosynthesis of leukotrienes
20 patients treated with Boswellia gum resin 14 went into in vitro. (Wildfeuer A. et al., 1998)
remission while in case of sulfasalazine remission rate was 4 out of
10. In conclusion, this study shows that a gum resin preparation Effects of Boswellia serrata gum resin in ulcerative colitis
from Boswellia serrata could be effective in the treatment of Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the
chronic colitis with minimal side effects. (Gupta I. et al., Jul. 2001) colon where leukotrienes are suggested to play an important role
for keeping inflammation active. Boswellic acids, the biologically
Effects of Boswellia serrata gum resin in bronchial asthma active ingredients of the gum resin of Boswellia serrata (Sallai
The gum resin of Boswellia serrata, known in Ayurvedic guggal), have been shown to be specific, nonredox and
system of medicine as Salai guggal, contains boswellic acids, noncompetitive inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase, the key enzyme of
which have been shown to inhibit leukotriene biosynthesis. In a leukotriene biosynthesis. In patients suffering from ulcerative
double-blind, placebo-controlled study forty patients, 23 males and colitis grade II and III the effect of Boswellia serrata gum resin
17 females in the age range of 18-75 years having mean duration of preparation (350 mg thrice daily for 6 weeks) on stool properties,
 Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 02 (03); 2012: 148-156

histopathology and scan microscopy of rectal biopsies, blood cell mediated and humoral components of the immune system and
parameters including Hb, serum iron, calcium, phosphorus, the immunotoxicological potential. A single oral administration of
proteins, total leukocytes and eosinophils was studied. Patients BA (50-200 mg/kg) inhibited the expression of the 24hr delayed
receiving sulfasalazine (1gm thrice daily) served as controls. All type hypersensitivity (DTH) reaction and primary humoral
parameters tested improved after treatment with Boswellia serrata response to SRBC in mice. The secondary response was
gum resin, the results being similar compared to controls: 82% out appreciably enhanced at lower doses. In a multiple oral dose
of treated patients went into remissions in case of sulfasalazine schedule Ba (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) reduced the development of
remission rate was 75%. (Gupta et al., Jan. 1997). the 24h DTH reaction and complement fixing antibody titres and
slightly enhanced the humoral antibody synthesis. In
Effects of Boswellia serrata in Polyarthritis concentrations greater than 3.9 micro g/mL BA produced almost
Boswellia serrata are used in India for the treatment of similar and dose related inhibition of proliferative responsiveness
chronic polyarthiritis. Employing the main constituents of both of splenocytes to mitogens and alloantigen. Preincubation of
plants i.e. curcumine and bosellic acids, their effects on the macrophages with different concentrations of BA enhanced the
pathways of arachidonic acid cascade in stimulated phagocytic function of adherent macrophages. Prolonged oral
polymorphnuclear neutrophiles (PMNL) and platelets have been administration of BA (25-100 mg/kg/dx 21 days) increased the
studied. Extracts from the resin of Boswellia serrata in a dose body weight, total leukocyte counts and humoral antibody titers in
related manner inhibited formation of 5-lipoxygenase products in rats. It is not found to be cytotoxic or to cause immunosuppression
PMNL. A similar effect was observed employing boswellic acids (Sharma M.L. et al., 1996; Dandekar et al., 1993).
EC50 being 2-7 micro M. Curcuma exhibited an antioxidative
effect in Fe/ascorbate-induced peroxidation of arachiodonic acid. Inhibitory activity of human leukemia HL-60 cells in culture
Moreover, curcumine inhibited the formation of cyclooxygenase Four major tritperpene acids including beta-boswellic
and 5-lipoxygenase as well as 12-lipoxygenase products. (Ammon acid, 3-O-acetyl-beta-boswellic acid, 11-keto-beta-boswellic acid,
H.P.T. et al., 1992) and 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-boswellic acid were isolated from the gum
resin of Boswellia serrata and examined for their in vitro antitumor
Effect of Boswellia serrata in hepatitis C-virus (HCV) activity. They inhibited the synthesis of DNA, RNA and protein in
The methanolic and water extract of Boswellia species human leukemia HL-60 cells in a dose dependent manner with
used in traditional medicine were screened for their inhibitory IC50-values ranging from 0.6 to 7.1 microM. Among them, 3-O-
effects on hepatitis C-virus (HCV) protease (PR) using in vitro acetyl-11-keto-beta boswellic acid induced the most pronounced
assay methods. The methanolic extract showed significant inhibitory effects on DNA, RNA and protein synthesis with IC50
inhibitory activities. (Hussein G. et al., 2000). values of 0.6, 0.5 and 4.1 microM, respectively. Its effect on DNA
synthesis was found to be irreversible. This compound
Effect of Boswellia serrata on liver and cardiac function significantly inhibited the cellular growth of HL-60 cells, but did
Efficacy of six different gums Acacia ((A), Tragacanth not affect cell viability. (Shao et al., 1998) Acetyl-11-keto-beta-
(B), Butea monosperma (C), Boswellia glabera (D), Balsamoderon boswellic acid (AKBA) is a pentacylic triterpene isolated from
mukul (E), and Melia azadirachta (F),were investigated for various Boswellia serrata, AKBA treated cells showed morphological
biochemical parameters :ALAT, ASAT, LDH, CK, bilirubin ,and changes like membrane blebbing and subsequent flow cytometric
albumin in serum of rabbits. The serum level of transaminases analysis of propidium-iodide stained cells indicated that the cells
showed a significant increase with all gums A, C, D, E and F while underwent apoptosis. This was confirmed by flow cytometric
the effect of gum B was not significant. The serum level of LDH detection of sub-G1-peaks in AKBA treated cells. As inhibitors of
was reduced with gums A, B, C, D and F. the serum level of CK topoisomerases are known to be potent inducers of apoptosis. The
was decrease with gums A, B, C, and E. The serum albumin level effect of AKBA on topoisomerase 1 from calf thymus in vitro was
was not affected significantly by the gums investigated. The examined. In a DNA-relaxation assay with OX174RF DNA,
bilirubin level was elevated with gums A, E and F while it was AKBA inhibited topoisomerase 1 and IC50 being 20 micro M.
decreased with gums B and C. (Rasheed et al., 1993) This suggests that induction of apoptosis in HL60 and CCRF-CEM
by AKBA might be topoisomerase 1. (Hoernulein et al., 1996/97)
Effect on the gonads of male Dysedercus of Boswellia serrata oil
Topical application of the essential oil from B .serrata on Inhibition of 5-LO by boswellic acids
the freshly moulted fifth insets nymphs resulted in production of Boswellic acids represent the active principle of Boswellia
super nymphus adult nymphs. In the resultant from both serrata gum resin with antiphlogistic and antirheumatic properties.
spermatogenesis were seriously affected. Thus the essential oil can Among the Bas, 11-keto-beta-BA was the most potent. The
act as a effective insect growth regulation (Rao et al., 1989). presence of a carboxylic function and an 11-keto function has been
Immunomodulatory effect of Boswellia serrata reported to be crucial for the 5-lipoxygenase inhibiting property of
Boswellic acid, a mixture of pentacyclic triterpene acids this unique pentacyclic triterpene derivative. (Satyahi, et al.,
(BA) from Boswellia serrata, was investigated for their effect on 1994/2000) Pentacyclic triterpenes from the 11-keto-boswellic acid
 Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 02 (03); 2012: 148-156

series were identified as the active principal ingredients of moderate conditions of workup in methanolic solutions, was
Boswellia resin, inhibiting the key enzyme of leukotriene identified as 3-O-acetyl-11-methoxy-beta-boswellic acid
biosynthesis, 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO). Of the genuine boswellic (Schweizer, 2000).
acids hitherto characterized, 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic
acid, AKBA proved to be the most potent inhibitor of 5-LO. In the Juvenomimetic activity of Boswellia serrata
course of purification of further boswellic acid derivatives from The essential oil from the gumoleoresin of Boswellia
Boswellia resin, degradation of the natural compound 3-O-acetyl- serrata showed juvenomimetic activity when tested at 1:10-4:50
11-hydroxy-beta-boswellic acid to the thermodynamically more acetone dilution on Dysdercus similes V instar nymphs. Its terpene
stable product 3-O-acetyl-9, 11-dehydro-beta-boswellic acid was constituents were characterized by GLC and GC-MS analysis
observed. The metastable intermediate of this conversion, under (Dennis et al., 1999).

Table. 1: evidence based scientific validation of (boswellia serrata) kundur.

Therapeutic Uses and Actions Unani & other alternative medicine References Scientific References
Antiseptic Ibne Sina, 1912; Azam Khan, 1314; Mishra et al, 1980; Baratta M. T. et al, 1998; Garg
Anonymous, 1988; Varier’s, 1994; Kirtikar & Basu, 1995; et al, 1974
Anti fungal, anti microbial Ibne Sina, 1912; Azam Khan, 1314; Anonymous, 1988; Varier’s, 1994; Mishra et al, 1980; Baratta et al, 1998; Garg et al,
Kirtikar & Basu, 1995 1974
Anti-inflammatory Ibne Sina, 1912; Azam Khan, 1314; Ghani, N.; 1917; Kirtikar & Basu, 1995; Menon & Kar 1969
Varier’s, 1994; Nadkarni, 1976; Asolkar, L.V., 1992; Anonymous, 1988
Arthritis Azam Khan, 1314; Ghani, N., 1917; Asolkar, L. V., 1992; Varier’s, 1994; Ammon et al, 1992; Atal, et al, 1980-1981; Reddy
Anonymous, 1988 et al, 1989; Ammon et al, 1993; Singh 1992;
Anti-obesity Ghani, N., 1917; Nadkarni, 1970 Zutshi et al, 1980
Asthma Kirtikar & Basu, 1995; Varier’s, 1994 Gupta et al, 1998; Miller et al, 2001
Cardiotonic Ibne Sina, 1912; Azam Khan, 1314; Ghani, N., 1917; Ibne Rushd, 1980; Rasheed et al, 1993
Asolkar, L.V., 1992
Anticonvulsant Kirtikar & Basu, 1995; Chopra, R.N., 1986; Varier’s, 1994; Wildfeuer et al, 1998
(Gastropathy) Ibne Sina, 1912; Azam Khan, 1314; Ghani, N., 1917; Ibne Rushd, 1980 Gupta et al, Jan. 1997; Gupta et al, Jul. 2001
Aphrodisiac Azam Khan, 1314; Ghani, N., 1917 Rao et al, 1989

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