Unlocking Cognitive Potential: The Promising Role of Boswellia Serrata In Enhancing Brain Health

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Key Takeaways

• Cognitive decline is accelerating: Neurodegenerative diseases are predicted to be the biggest health concern in the country
• Boswellia serrata offers multi-target protection: This ancient herb works through 6 distinct biological pathways to support brain health
• Science-backed benefits: Research shows Boswellia can reduce inflammation, protect neurons, and support memory function
• Natural and safe: Well-tolerated with centuries of traditional use, now backed by modern research

The importance of Cognitive Health

Cognitive health encompasses various mental functions, including memory, attention, learning and problem solving. Maintaining optimal cognitive health is crucial for quality of life, especially as we age. 

Neurodegenerative diseases are predicted to be the biggest health concern in this century and the second leading cause of death by 2050. (1) The CDC, in 2024, estimated 6.7 million older adults have Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. That number is expected to double by 2060.

Cognitive decline can lead to significant challenges, impacting daily functioning, quality of life, and overall well-being. 

Factors Affecting Cognitive Heath

Several factors contribute to cognitive decline, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences. Chronic inflammation has emerged as a critical factor in in the deterioration of cognitive health, making anti-inflammatory strategies increasingly important in preventing and managing cognitive disorders. 

There are limited options against AD and other dementias, this has prompted research to explore potent pharmacological agents with broad biological activity that exhibit few side effects to treat neurodegenerative disease. One such biologically compound is boswellic acid. 

What is Boswellia Serrata?

Boswellia serrata, (of the family Burseraceae) is a medicinal plant, who’s gum/resin is used for medicinal purposes related to inflammation. It is obtained from Boswellia serrata tree bark and is grown in in India, Northern Africa and the Middle East. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic practices. This plant resin extract has been widely studied for its therapeutic properties:

•  Anti-inflammatory
•  Anti-arthritic
•  Analgesic effects
•  Anti-microbial
•  Antioxidant
•  Antitumor
•  Anti-carcinogenic 

The key to its effectiveness lies in the bioactive boswellic acids, which play a significant role in its therapeutic effects. (2) They exert beneficial effects by targeting multiple pathological causes through antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antiamyloidogenic and anti-apoptic properties. (3) The Boswellia species, having neuroprotective potential makes it a promising candidate to cure, or prevent neurodegenerative disorders. (4)

What Are Boswellic Acids?

The active component of Boswellia serrata gum/resin, is a naturally occurring mixture of bioactive compounds. The extract of this plant partially consists of 4 major pentacyclic triterpenic acids called boswellic acids. (5)  

Boswellic acids have been well documented concerning their anti-inflammatory properties. There are more than 12 different boswellic acids that have been identified but only KBA and AKBA received significant pharmacological interest: (6.7)

•  KBA 11-keto-b-Boswellic acid
•  AKBA Acetyl-11-keto-b-Boswellic acid

How Do Boswellic Acids Protect Your Brain:

6 Key Mechanisms

The healing mechanisms of boswellic acids are multifaceted, primarily revolving around their

ability to modulate inflammatory pathways in the body, and various molecular targets and signaling pathways. Research has identified specific targets through which Boswellia supports cognitive health:

1. 5-Lipoxygenase Inhibition

What is 5-Lipoxygenase?

5-Lipoxygenase (5-LOX) is a crucial enzyme in the production of leukotrienes. Leukotrienes are fatty signaling molecules and are produced by leukocytes (white blood cells) that play a significant role in inflammation and immune responses. (8,9)

5-LOX catalyzes the first 2 steps in the conversion of arachidonic acid in leukotrienes. 5-LOX is primarily found in leukocytes, and its activity is implicated in various inflammatory diseases. (9) 

How Boswellic Acids Effect 5-Lipoxygenase:

AKBA and other boswellic acids bind to a specific site on the 5-LOX enzyme, interfering with its ability to convert arachidonic acid into leukotrienes. (11)  Consequently, this reduction in leukotrienes reduce inflammation within the brain, as they are responsible for significant pathology of brain tissues. (5,12)

2. Nrf2 Pathway Activation

(Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related Factor)

What is the Nrf2 Pathway?

The Nrf2 pathway is a cellular defense system that plays a crucial role in protecting cells against oxidative stress. When activated in response to cellular stress, it moves into the nucleus and binds to the antioxidant response element (ARE). (13)

 Activation of this pathway leads to the expression of genes that help the body combat these stressors and maintain cellular health. (14)  The Nrf2 pathway is being increasingly studied as a therapeutic target for neurogenerative disease. (15)

How Boswellic Acids Effect Nrf2:

Boswellic acids, primarily AKBA, can activate the Nrf2 pathway. By enhancing antioxidant defenses, boswellic acids help reduce neuronal damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. This activation leads to increased expression of antioxidant proteins and enzymes, enhancing cell’s ability to cope with oxidative stress. (16) 

This action can protect neurons and other cells from oxidative stress, which is implicated in neurodegenerative diseases and aging and can help diseased induced disruption in Nrf2 signaling and reduce inflammatory activation in both peripheral tissues and the central nervous system. (17) Evidence suggests that NrF2 signaling is regulated by AKBA, which has a beneficial influence on motor impairment, memory and cognitive deficits, neurological changes. (18)

Another study showed that AKBA rectified disease-induced disruption in Nrf2 signaling and reduces inflammation activation in both peripheral tissues and the central nervous system. (18) 

3. NF-kB Pathway Modulation

(Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells)

What is NF-kB?

NF-kB is a protein complex that is involved in various essential cellular functions, including immune response, inflammation and cell survival. It acts as a transcription factor, meaning it regulates which genes are switched on and off in cells. When activated it promotes the production of various inflammatory molecules. (19)

How Boswellic Acids Effect NF-kB:

Boswellic acids inhibits nuclear transcription factor, NF-kB signaling, markedly decreasing production of the key pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor, TNF-a, a cytokine that helps fight infections, but can contribute to inflammatory conditions when produced excessively. (20). Boswellic acids prevent the movement of NF-kB into the nucleus, where it would initiate transcription of pro-inflammatory genes. (21) 

Another study shows incensole acetate (IA), a major constituent of boswellic acids, to inhibit NF-kB activation and concomitant inflammation, as well as the neurological deficit following head trauma (22)

Another study demonstrated that in Alzheimer’s Disease, NF-kB regulates the BACE1 and APP expression (23) leading to increased amyloid beta formation (24).  As such, suppression of NF-kB has promising prospects in combatting the pathophysiology of AD.

4. Cholinergic System Enhancement

What is the Cholinergic System?

The cholinergic system is a part of the nervous system that uses acetylcholine (ACh), a neurotransmitter, to send signals between nerve cells. Healthy acetylcholine levels are associated with improvements in cognitive function, learning and memory.  It also plays an important role in muscle movement and heart regulation. (25)  

How Boswellic Acids Effects the Cholinergic system:

Boswellic acids, especially AKBA, can influence cholinergic neurotransmission by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE). This enzyme normally breaks down acetylcholine. Studies have shown that by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, boswellic acids help maintain levels of acetylcholine in the brain, improving neuron communication. (26,27)

5. Amyloid Beta Protection

What is Amyloid Beta?

Amyloid beta is a protein fragment produced in the brain from amyloid precursor protein (APP). In healthy people, it is usually cleared from the brain, but in some conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, these fragments can accumulate, and form clumps known as amyloid plaques. 

These plaques disrupt cell communication and trigger inflammation, believed to contribute to Alzheimer’s symptoms.  While associated with disease, amyloid beta also plays normal roles in neuroprotection and cell support. (28)

How Boswellic Acids Effect Amyloid Beta:

Boswellic acids may influence accumulation and toxicity of amyloid-beta. They help reduce amyloid-beta aggregation and promote its clearance. Several studies demonstrate that Boswellia acids can decrease amyloid beta in animal models by:

• Exerting anti-inflammatory effects in the brain
• Reducing molecules implicated in Alzheimer pathology
• Counteracting oxidative stress that contributes to neuronal damage (29,30)

6. Neurofibrillary Tangle Prevention

What are Neurofibrillary Tangles? (NFT’s)

Neurofibrillary tangles are abnormal accumulations of a protein called tau that collect inside neurons. Healthy neurons are partially supported internally by microtubules that guide nutrients from the cell body to extensions. (31) They are formed by abnormal accumulations of hyperphosphorylated tau protein in the brain. (26)

How Boswellic Acids Effect Neurofibrillary Tangles:

Boswellic acids have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by modulating pathways like 5-LOX and inhibiting NFkB, which contribute to neuroinflammation. (26)   In addition, they have shown neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress and improving cognitive dysfunction. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Boswellia acids reduce the pathological processes that lead to NFT formation.

More specifically, several potential pathways regarding boswellic acid’s reduction of neurofibrillary tangle formation are as follows:

• Inhibition of tau phosphorylation: One of the critical events in the formation of neurofibrillary tangles is the hyperphosphorylation of tau protein. Boswellic acids may inhibit certain kinases that are responsible for tau phosphorylation, thereby reducing the formation of hyperphosphorylated tau and the subsequent aggregation into tangles.

• Reduction of inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to the pathology of AD.  Boswellic acids exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the inflammatory milieu that contributes to tau pathology.  By modulating inflammatory pathways, these compounds could help create a more favorable environment for neuronal health and reduce tau aggregation.

• Antioxidant activity: Boswellic acids possess antioxidant properties that could protect neurons from oxidative stress, which is known to contribute to tau phosphorylation and aggregation.  By mitigating oxidative damage, boswellic acids may help preserve the normal function of tau protein and inhibit its pathological transformations.

• Modulation of Molecular pathways: Boswellic acids may influence various signaling pathways involved in cell survival and apoptosis.  By modulating these pathways, they might help maintain proper tau protein function and prevent its aggregation. (3)

Monitoring and Safety Considerations 

Boswellia serrata is generally well-tolerated, but it is important to monitor for potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort. People taking anticoagulant medications should discuss risks and benefits of starting this or any supplement with their primary care physician.

Boswellia serrata has not shown any severe side effects and is considered safe, not causing adverse effects to blood pressure, heart rate, respiration or other autonomic responses. The resin of Boswellia serrata is included on FDA’s “safe substances” and its use is permitted by the USFDA. 

Always consult with a health care provider when considering a new supplement.

Conclusion

Boswellia serrata represents a promising natural supplement with potentially significant cognitive health benefits, particularly through its anti-inflammatory properties. As we face the growing challenge of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases, ingredients like Boswellia offer hope through their multi-targeted approach to brain protection. 

While Boswellia serrata offers benefits, it should be viewed as part of a comprehensive approach to cognitive health. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, being social, and engaging in actives that challenge your brain, can further enhance cognitive outcomes.

At Dr. Kaplan’s we believe that science matters, every ingredient in our formulations must be backed by rigorous research and clinical evidence.

References 

1. Projected Global Burden of Brain Disorders Through 2050

https://www.neurology.org/doi/10.1212/WNL.0000000000205009

2. Anti-proliferative and antibacterial activity of the oleo-gum-resin of Boswellia serrata extract and its isolate 3-hydroxy-11-keto-b-boswellic acid

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hermed.2022.100546

3.Boswellia-An Overview 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/boswellia

4. Genus Boswellia as a new candidate for neurodegenerative disorders

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7229515

5. Cysteinyl-leukotriene receptor activation in brain inflammatory reactions and cerebral edema formation: a role for transcellular biosynthesis of cysteinyl leukotrienes

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/8440408_Cysteinyl_leukotriene_receptor_activation_in_brain-inflammation

6. Boswellia 

https://examine.com/supplements/boswellia/research/#Yl1onQP-neurology_Yl1onQP-cognition

7. Boswellic acids and their role in chronic inflammatory diseases

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27671822

8. Leukotriene-An Overview 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/leukotriene

9. 5-Lipooxygenase: mechanisms of regulation

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2674731

11. Boswellic acids: novel, specific, nonredox inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1602379

12. The leukotriene signaling pathway: A druggable target in Alzheimer’s Disease

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drudis.2018.09.008

13. The Nrf2-antioxidant response element pathway: a target regulating energy metabolism

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnutbio.2012.03.005

14. The Nrf2-antioxidant response element signaling pathway and its activation by oxidative stress

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19182219

15.Nrf2-ARE pathway: An emerging target against oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26617217

16. Neuroprotection by aceytyl-11-keto-B-Boswellic acid, in ischemic brain injury involves the Nrf2-HO-1 defense pathway

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25384416

17. Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Activator Acetyl-11-keto-beta-Boswellic Acid (AKBA)-Mediated Neuroprotection in Methyl Mercury-Induced Experimental Model of ALS  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34075522 

18. Modulation of Nrf2 Pathway Contributes to the Therapeutic Effects of Boswellia serrata Gum Resin Extract in a model of Experimental Autoimmune Myocarditis

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36358503

19. Structural studies of NF-kB signaling

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3044936

20. Oxidative stress 

https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/oxidative-stress

21. Boswellia-Purported Benefits, Side Effects & More

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/boswellia

22. Protective effects of incensole acetate on cerebral ischemic injury

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3294134

23. Cyclooxygenase gene expression in inflammation and angiogenesis

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7509130

24. Gene structure and organization of the human beta-secretase (BACE) promoter 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15059975

25. Cholinergic System

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/cholinergic-system

26.  Mechanistic role of boswellic acids in Alzheimer’s Disease: Emphasis on anti-inflammatory properties

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332221010349

27. Boswellic Acids Improves Cognitive Function in a Rat Model Through Its Antioxidant Activity: -Neuroprotective effect of Boswellic acid

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28392957

28. Beta Amyloid-An Overview  

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/beta-amyloid

29. Acetyl-11-Keto-b-boswellic acid ameliorates cognitive deficits and reduces amyloid-B levels in APPswe/PS1dE9  mice through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32109514

30. Boswellia acids ameliorate neurodegenerative induced by A1C13: the implication Wnt/B catenin pathway

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9553772

31. What Happens to the Brain in Alzheimer’s Disease? 

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-causes-and-risk-factors/what-happens-brain-alzheimers-disease

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or have medical conditions.