Ayurveda and most traditional systems of medicine have proved their efficacy in various clinical aspects and in treating various types of disorders. Shallaki, also referred to as Boswellia or Olibanum, is used in many Ayurvedic systems of medicine, mainly to treat various sorts of inflammatory disorders, especially in sandhi vata/arthritis. The Ayurvedic formulations concentrate on the use of polyherbal formulations in treating many disorders. The traditional knowledge of the ingredients has kept the pathway opened for most modern researchers and nutraceutical manufacturers to explore the phytochemical ingredients, which are responsible for the biological activities. Boswellic acids, especially keto boswellic acids, are responsible for the pharmacological activities of the gum resin extract. This chapter presents an overview of the various pharmacological activities of the Boswellia gum resin extract and the proposed mechanism of action of their phytochemical compounds with Ayurvedic-based information.

Ayurvedic medicines are regarded as a pioneer in the traditional systems of medicine, which are globally accepted. Ayurvedic medicines work on the synergistic effects on the ingredients in which all the individual ingredients equally contribute to the pharmacological activities. Even though most of the formulations are clinically evaluated for their efficacy, there are many drawbacks which need to be overcome. The study design, population, and biomarkers all need to be evaluated in clinical trials.

Remedies from nature are always of great interest. In the concerns related to health and diseases, this interest is very large. Traditional medicine systems are a result of the trials over the years and their role in the domain of well-being is still important. The scientific possibilities of research on traditional medicine have found a way for much healthier and beneficial treatment protocols. The current chapter discusses different traditional medicine systems and their safety and efficacy, as assessed by modern scientific studies.