Boswellia Complex Side Effects

Boswellia Complex is an herbal supplement designed to support kidney function, maintain healthy joints and support healthy circulation and your body's normal resistance function. Manufacturer MediHerb explains that it contains standardized levels of both the boswellia and turmeric components. Boswellia Complex contains the active ingredients boswellia, celery seed, ginger and turmeric. Each active ingredient is associated with side effects, although some side effects are rare or only occur with very large doses.

Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is a common remedy in Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional health care system of India. The herb is used for treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, ulcerative colitis and asthma. Boswellia seems seems to have fewer negative effects than medications used to treat these conditions, such as steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Gastrointestinal effects are possible, including a feeling of fullness, upset stomach, stomach pain or nausea. Taking boswellia when you have an upset stomach can make it worse, according to PDR Health. Two of the other active components in Boswellia Complex, ginger and turmeric, also may cause digestive issues. Although these substances can relieve gastrointestinal problems, taking them in excessive doses can lead to heartburn, upset stomach, diarrhea and stomach ulcers.

Celery seed has a role in herbal health remedies as a diuretic and as a treatment for arthritis and rheumatism. While side effects are uncommon, according to Drugs.com, large doses of celery seed oil may have sedative effects.

Ginger is known for its ability to relieve nausea and also for its anti-inflammatory effects, while turmeric root is an herbal remedy for relieving arthritis pain and for boosting energy. Ginger and turmeric both may have anticoagulant effects and decrease blood clotting. This increases the risk of abnormal bleeding. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends not taking ginger or turmeric supplements if you take medications with anticoagulant effects such as warfarin, heparin, aspirin or ibuprofen.

Pregnant women should be cautious about consuming turmeric, as advised by the U.S. National Institutes of Health. This herb may stimulate your uterus and cause menstruation.

As with any herbal supplement, you may experience an allergic reaction to components of Boswellia Complex. Signs of an allergy to an herbal supplement, as listed by PDR Health, include difficulty breathing, tightness in your chest or throat, chest pain, itchy or swollen skin, and a rash or hives. An allergic reaction to Boswellia Complex should be considered a medical emergency.