Bromelain is most commonly extracted from pineapple. It is known as a proteolytic enzyme, meaning that it has the unique quality to digest proteins, reduce inflammation and treat overall indigestion. Pineapple, or Ananas comosus, has been used in traditional societies, particularly those of Central and South America, to promote healthy digestion and lower inflammatory conditions for hundreds of years. First isolated as a medicinal extract in the late 1800's, Bromelain comes from the juice, and mainly the stems of pineapple.1

Description & Chemical Actions of the Bromelain

Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme that can counter-act inflammation in the body's chronically swollen organs and tissues.4 This proteolytic action also aids in the digestion of food and nutrients, cleanses the body of toxins, stops the formation of blood clots, and counteracts viral and harmful bacterial behavior in the body.

Bromelain also has the ability to stop the creation of kinnins, compounds in the body associated with inflammation.2 It also can activate specialized blood-chemicals that can break down fibrins, a sugar-complex known to cause clotting in the blood. By breaking down blood fibrins, the tissues of the body stop swelling and harmful clots can be avoided.

The Health Benefits of Bromelain

Bromelain is an extremely effective anti-inflammatory. Over 200 scientific papers have been written on its incredible health-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.4 It is used to reduce swelling in post-surgical patients, and is particularly useful in reducing inflammation following sinus surgery. Bromelain may also aid in the body's natural healing process, contributing to the healing of bruises and reducing pain.

Studies show that it is effective in relieving pain associated with sports injuries, particularly those associated with minor muscular injuries involving sprains and strains. It is also an effective aid for acute tendinitis. Studies done on animals found that topical use of bromelain could aid in healing burns, and the swelling and discomfort associated with insect bites and stings.2 Another clinical study on this extract found that patients suffering from long bone fractures showed less post-operative edema than placebo groups. It is also associated with faster post-operative healing in clincal trials.3

Bromelain may also contribute to the following health applications:(1,2,5,6)

• An anti-mucousal, bromelain reduces mucous and cough associated with sinus infection.
• May reduce swelling and inflammation from hay fever.
• Powerful remedy for indigestion, bromelain aids in the process of protein digestion, relieves stomach upset and heartburn.
• May reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritic conditions.
• An anti-viral and anti-bacterial, bromelain has been shown to kill several forms of viruses and bacteria, particularly involved with bronchial and urinary tract infections.
• May aid in bacteria-induced diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease.
• Promotes healing of wounds and scar tissue.
• Reduces negative forms of cholesterol as it possesses an anti-clotting action, aiding in the prevention of stroke and heart disease.
• Acts as an overall digestive aid.
• May help dissolve parasitic eggs and larvae.
• Promotes healthy menstruation by balancing regulatory hormones.
• Contains enzymatic properties that can dissolve warts.
• Acts as an overall immune-system booster.
• May aid in upper respiratory tract infections and Peyronie's disease.
• May prevent flu, colds, ear infections, lupus, gout, muscle soreness and phlebitis.
• May reduce susceptibility to food allergies, especially those associated with wheat and grain allergies. One Japanese study found that bromelain-infused wheat flour did not cause an allergic response in individuals with gluten-sensitivity, possibly due to its enzymatic ability to change the structure of protein.

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