Boswellia is an Ayurvedic plant that contains anti-inflammatory triterpenoids called boswellic acids. Boswellic acid and its derivatives have anti-carcinogenic, anti-tumor, and blood lipid lowering activities. Dried extracts of the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree have been used since antiquity in India to treat inflammatory conditions.
Boswellia reduces inflammation. It inhibits proinflammatory 5-lipoxygenase chemicals and blocks leukotriene synthesis. By doing so, boswellia may be helpful in medical conditions involved in inflammation.
Glucosamine is an aminopolysaccharide (a combination of an amino acid - glutamine and a sugar - glucose). Glucosamine is the primary building block for the proteoglycans, large molecules in cartilage that give it its elastic buffering properties. The proteoglycans function to attract water into the joint space for lubrication of the cartilage during movement. When consumed as a supplement, glucosamine is readily absorbed and can be traced to cartilage as soon as four hours after consumption. A range of nutrients are required by the body in sufficient quantities in the maintenance of healthy joints. Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM (as a source of sulphur) are known as agents that may help nourish joint cartilage, but other co-factors are also important in cartilage synthesis. These include Vitamins C and E, boron, copper, manganese and zinc. |
