Gout is a form of arthritis that usually affects the big toe joint, although it can affect any joint in the body. It occurs when uric acid, a waste product produced by the body, builds up in the blood and forms crystals in the joints. As a result, people suffering from an attack of gout experience severe pain and inflammation in the affected joints. If you suffer from gout, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicines or a drug called colchine to alleviate your symptoms. An herbal medicine, known as bromelain, may also help to reduce pain and inflammation. However, evidence to show that it's effective is limited.
Properties and Administration
Bromelain is a proteolytic enzymes enzyme derived the stem of the pineapple fruit. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, bromelain has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat a number of conditions, including cancer, edema and arthritis-like conditions. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 40 mg of bromelain three times daily to relieve gout-associated pain and inflammation. However, this is only a guideline; your doctor will be able to advise you on how much to take.
Efficacy
Studies examining the effects of bromelain treatment on gout specifically, are lacking. However, research published in the July 2001 issue of "Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology" notes that proteolytic enzymes, including bromelain, may decrease production of transforming growth factor-beta, the over-production of which is associated with arthritic-like conditions. Research findings published in the December 2002 issue of "Phytomedicine" also show that bromelain may increase well-being and reduce the physical symptoms of arthritic conditions.
Safety
Bromelain may cause an allergic reaction in some people, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes. Other side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, skin rash, and vomiting. Drugs.com also notes that eating large amounts of pineapple as a means of obtaining bromelain may cause swelling of the mouth and cheeks. Do not take bromelain if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It may interact with drugs including antibiotics, drugs that are modified by the liver and anticoagulants. Ask your doctor for advice before taking bromelain.
Other Herbal Supplements
The UMMC cites a number of herbal remedies that may help to alleviate gout symptoms, including cat's claw and turmeric. Cat's claw may give the immune system a boost and reduce inflammation, while tumeric contains a compound called curcumin that may have ant-inflammatory effects. Like bromelain, these herbs may cause side effects or interact with other medicines. For example, cat's claw may cause headaches and vomiting, and may interact with immunosuppressant drugs. Get medical advice before taking herbal supplements to alleviate gout symptoms.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: Bromelain
- PubMed: Oral Therapy with Proteolytic Enzymes Decreases Excessive TGF-Beta Levels in Human Blood
- PubMed: Bromelain Reduces Mild Acute Knee Pain and Improves Well-Being in a Dose-Dependent Fashion in an Open Study of Otherwise Healthy Adults
- Drugs.com: Pineapple
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Cat's Claw
