Boswellia
Boswellia serrata is a tree native to India, Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is commonly used in the traditional Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda.
Boswellia serrata contains chemicals that may reduce swelling and increase the body's immune response. Extracts of the sap, bark, and other plant parts of Boswellia serrata have been taken orally for therapeutic purposes.
People use Boswellia serrata for osteoarthritis. It is also used for many other purposes, including asthma, diabetes, and stroke, but there is no scientific evidence to support these other uses. There is also no good evidence to support the use of Boswellia serrata for COVID-19.
The sap of Boswellia serrata is sometimes used to make incense. Frankincense is typically applied to the skin or inhaled as aromatherapy.