Bromelain is a supplement that contains proteolytic enzymes, which are protein-digesting enzymes. You might take bromelain for a variety of health issues, including digestive problems or vein conditions. Before you begin taking bromelain for any medical purpose, consult your doctor to discuss the correct dosage, as well as the potential risks and drug interactions.
Identification
Bromelain is derived from a group of substances found in pineapples, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Specifically, the stem and juice of the pineapple contains the proteolytic enzymes that make up bromelain . Although bromelain is a natural dietary supplement made from only pineapple fruits, similar proteolytic enzymes are also found in papain, which is made from papayas.
Function
Aside from helping to digest proteins, the proteolytic enzymes in bromelain provide anti-inflammatory effects, as well as wound-debriding benefits for skin burns, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Bromelain also have a blood-thinning effect. The proteolytic enzymes found in bromelain and papain could also potentially offer preventive and antitumor effects relating to cancer.
Benefits
Bromelain is most commonly used for helping to treat injuries, phlebitis, sinusitis and digestive problems, as well as supporting surgery. Bromelain could also have the potential to help treat arthritis, gout, ulcerative colitis, menstrual pain, easy bruising and arthritis. The dietary supplement may help promote wound and post-surgical healing, as well as help treat angina, sprains and strains, asthma, low-back pain, urinary tract infections, tendinitis and prostatitis, notes the University of Michigan Health System. In some cases, bromelain could have the potential to treat edema and prevent or treat cancer, says the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. No widely accepted, conclusive scientific research supports the use of bromelain or other sources of proteolytic enzymes for treating or preventing any medical condition, however.
Warning
Allergic reactions are the most common serious side effect reported from taking bromelain, so don't take the remedy if you're allergic to pineapples. Bromelain could also interact negatively with certain medications by increasing the effects of some drugs, such as tetracycline antibiotics, sedatives and anticoagulants like Coumadin. Taking very high doses of bromelain could increase your heart rate as well, cautions the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.
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