Boswellia Serrata - Plaquenil (Hydroxychloroquine) Interaction
Herbal: Boswellia Serrata
Also Known As: Boswellia serrata, Arbre à Oliban Indien, Boswella, Boswellin, Boswellin Serrata Resin, Encens Indien, Gajabhakshya, Indian Frankincense, Oliban Indien, Salai Guggal, Salai Guggul, Sallaki Guggul, Shallaki
Drug: Hydroxychloroquine
Brand names:
Plaquenil
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
Jun 02, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Hydroxychloroquine and Boswellia Serrata. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
No interaction has been noted between Boswellia and the drug in question on this interaction check.
In terms of other interactions, Boswellia serrata has been shown in laboratory studies to mildly inhibit several enzymes involved in drug metabolism, including CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. This inhibition may increase the levels of drugs metabolized by these enzymes, potentially leading to adverse effects.
However, it is important to note that this inhibition has only been seen in a lab setting, and has not been reported in humans. Whether or not Boswellia supplements have clinically significant drug interactions due to the effects on the above enzymes isn't well known. In most cases, it appears unlikely that these interactions would be clinically significant as there is a lack of reports of problems being caused in humans.
In addition, Boswellia serrata may interact with immunosuppressive drugs.
Studies show that Boswellia may help reduce the activity of some cells involved in autoimmune diseases. This could lead to a decrease in the production of antibodies and certain immune cells. However, other studies have found that certain components of Boswellia serrata may actually stimulate the immune system in certain situations. More research is needed to better understand the effect of Boswellia on immunosuppressive drugs.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDBoswellia Serrata Overview
Boswellia serrata is a tree that is native to regions of India, Nepal, and Pakistan. It is also known commonly as Indian frankincense or simply, boswellia. The tree is known for producing a resin, which is used in traditional medicine and in the production of incense and perfumes.
The gum resin and the bark of Boswellia serrata are used in traditional medicine as a natural remedy for a variety of health conditions, including inflammation, joint pain, and asthma. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful in reducing inflammation and swelling in the joints.
Hydroxychloroquine Overview
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Hydroxychloroquine is used to prevent and treat acute attacks of malaria in adults and children weighing more than 31 kg (68 lbs). It is also used to treat discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE; a chronic inflammatory condition of the skin) or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus; an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy parts of the body such as joints, skin, blood vessels, and organs) and rheumatoid arthritis. Hydroxychloroquine is in a class of drugs called antimalarials and is also an antirheumatic drug. It works by killing the organisms that cause malaria. Hydroxychloroquine may work to treat rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus by decreasing the activity of the immune system.
Boswellia Serrata - More Interactions
Boswellia Serrata interacts with 920 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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