Medically Reviewed by AJAY AWASE | Written by Ajay, PharmD, IGNTU
Source of content: https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/bromelain
Table of Contents
Overview
Bromelain: A Brief Overview
Bromelain
Common Names: bromelain, pineapple enzyme, pineapple extract
Latin Names: (pineapple plant) Ananas comosus
Bromelainis an enzyme that occurs naturally in pineapple stems. It has been utilized in traditional medicine for ages, primarily in South America. Bromelain has been popular in recent years due to its potential health advantages.
Potential Health Benefits of Bromelain
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Bromelain may assist to reduce inflammation, which is good for illnesses such as arthritis and allergies.
- Digestive aid: It can help break down proteins, perhaps improving digestion and alleviating symptoms such as bloating and indigestion.
- Wound healing:Bromelain may help with wound healing by lowering inflammation and stimulating tissue development.
- Sinus congestion relief:According to certain research, bromelain may help relieve symptoms of nasal congestion and inflammation.
Uses of Bromelain
| Use | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Anti-inflammatory | May help to lessen inflammation caused by illnesses such as arthritis and allergies. |
| Digestive aid | Can break down proteins, thereby aiding digestion and alleviating symptoms such as bloating and indigestion. |
| Wound healing | Reduces inflammation and promotes tissue development, which may help with wound healing. |
| Sinus congestion relief | According to some research, it may help relieve symptoms of sinus congestion and inflammation. |
Potential Side Effects of Bromelain
While bromelain is generally regarded safe to consume orally, some people may develop negative effects. These may include:
- Digestive issues: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: In rare situations, patients may develop allergic responses, such as hives or difficulty breathing.
- Interactions with medications: Bromelain may interact with some drugs, especially blood thinners.
Special Precautions and Warnings
When eaten by mouth:
Bromelain may be safe for the majority of people. Doses of up to 240 mg per day have been used successfully for a year. Bromelain may cause various side effects, such as diarrhea and stomach distress.
When placed on the skin:
Bromelain is possibly safe. It may induce allergic reactions in certain persons.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
There isn’t enough credible information to determine whether bromelain is safe to take while pregnant or breastfeeding. Stay careful and avoid using.
Allergies:
People with other allergies may also be allergic to bromelain. Use with caution if you are allergic to pineapple, latex, ragweed, Echinacea, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, wheat, celery, papain, carrot, fennel, cypress pollen, grass pollen, or any other plant.
Surgery:
Bromelain may increase the risk of bleeding during and during surgery. Stop taking bromelain at least two weeks before your scheduled operation.
Interactions
Moderate interaction.
Use caution with this combo.
Anticoagulant / antiplatelet medications interact with BROMELAIN.
Bromelain may slow blood coagulation. Taking bromelain with drugs that reduce blood coagulation may raise the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Minor Interaction.
Be cautious with this combination.
Antibiotics (tetracycline antibiotics) interact with Bromelain
Taking bromelain may enhance the amount of antibiotic the body absorbs. Taking bromelain with tetracyclines may increase the drugs’ effects and negative effects.
Popular Bromelain Products
Bromelain is available in various forms, including:
- Supplements: Bromelain supplements are available in three forms: capsules, tablets, and powder. They can be found at health food stores, pharmacies, and online vendors.
- Topical creams and ointments: Bromelain-containing lotions and ointments can be administered directly to the skin to potentially improve wound healing.
- Pineapple juice: While pineapple juice contains bromelain, the concentration may vary depending on the brand and processing methods.
When choosing a bromelain product, it’s important to consider the following:
- Dosage: Look for goods that include clear dose directions.
- Purity and quality: Select products from recognized brands to assure the purity and efficacy of the bromelain.
- Form: The optimum form of bromelain for you may vary depending on your unique requirements and preferences.
