Boswellia is an herb that has been used since ancient times for its medicinal value. This herb is a wonderful natural remedy for dogs. A boswellia supplement is especially useful for older dogs who are more prone to joint pain, tumors and inflammation.
What is Boswellia?
You may not have heard of boswellia, but perhaps you are more familiar with the name of the resin from the boswellia plant; frankincense. Boswellia is a tree that is native to Yemen and Somalia. When the tree has an injury to its bark, it produces a resin to heal itself. This resin is called frankincense. Not only does this resin heal the tree, it is healing to people and pets, too.
You will find boswellia in the form of supplements or frankincense essential oil. Both has their uses for dogs.
Boswellia is commonly used to treat arthritis and pain conditions. Dogs with the following health difficulties may find relief with a boswellia supplement:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Back Pain
- Knee Problems
- Joint Pain
- Arthritis1
- Stiff Joints
Because of it anti-inflammatory nature2, boswellia also can benefit dogs that suffer from other inflammatory problems like:
- Skin problems
- Autoimmune disease
- Colitis3​
How Much Boswellia Should I Give my Dog?
Boswellia is commonly sold in capsules. For a large dog, two capsules (500 mg each) are usually given twice a day. For medium dogs, one capsule (500 mg) can be given twice a day. For small dogs, use one (500 mg) capsule once a day. (Or use one 250 mg capsule twice daily for a small dog.)
While you may notice an improvement within a few days of beginning a boswellia supplement, sometimes it can take many weeks to see significant results. Unless the supplement seems to disagree with your dog, give it at least 2 months before deciding if it is worth continuing.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Boswellia, as frankincense essential oil is of particular value to tumors and cysts.
Frankincense essential oil is applied topically to reduce tumors and cysts. While it is an oil that can be used without diluted, for sensitive animals it should be diluted in coconut oil or castor oil. Each of these oils also have healing properties. Use only a drop or two at a time, once or twice a day. Essential oils are concentrated plant medicines and a little goes a long way!
Boswellia for Older Dogs
Senior dogs are more prone to joint problems, pain and tumors. This makes boswellia a supplement to consider for your older dog to help prevent these types of problems. Boswellia is also showing promise a possible cancer treatment, another good reason to consider it for aging dog.
Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12622457
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22457547
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11488449
