Bromelain & Pain Control

Bromelain is a group of digestive enzymes in pineapple beneficial for treating many health conditions. It is particularly effective for decreasing inflammation connected with infection and injuries, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The UMMC advises taking bromelain only with the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

Benefits

Bromelain may decrease effects associated with inflammation after surgery and injuries, such as swelling, bruising and pain, as noted by the UMMC. It also may speed healing. Bromelain decreases inflammation in cases of sprains, muscle strains and tendinitis, and applied topically, it relieves swelling from insect bites and stings. A study published in the January-February 2006 issue of "Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology" indicated a combination herbal therapy of bromelain, rutoside and trypsin was comparable to the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac at relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis of the hip. It was effective at decreasing pain and stiffness and in improving physical function. The UMMC notes preliminary research shows benefits for rheumatoid arthritis patients as well, although the results have not been confirmed. Bromelain also controls pain and inflammation associated with sinus surgery and ulcerative colitis, according to MedlinePlus.

Considerations

Although some people take bromelain to prevent sore muscles after intense exercise, evidence indicates the substance is not effective for this purpose, notes MedlinePlus. A study published in the May 2001 issue of "Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise" investigated the effects of bromelain and the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication ibuprofen for relieving muscle pain and dysfunction connected with delayed onset muscle soreness after intense exercise. The treatment had no effects on pain, loss of range of motion or loss of peak torque, the maximum muscle force.

How It Works

Although the digestive tract breaks down most large enzymes for absorption, it seems to absorb the enzymes in bromelain whole to a certain degree, notes the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. This explains why bromelain produces systemic effects, or effects throughout the body. It appears to stimulate the production of substances that reduce pain and inflammation and to boost immunity.

Usage

Bromelain is available in tablets and capsules, along with topical preparations. The Commission E, Germany's regulatory agency for herbal remedies, suggests taking 80 to 320 mg of bromelain two or three times per day for swelling and inflammation after surgery. The UMMC lists a standard dosage of 500 mg four times per day for treating injuries, and 250 mg to 1,000 mg twice per day for relieving arthritis pain.

Side Effects

Bromelain is associated with digestive side effects, as noted by the UMMC. Some people experience stomach and intestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It also may cause heavier menstrual flow. Because bromelain is derived from pineapple, people who are allergic to pineapples should not take this supplement.