There are many types and causes of headaches. Tension headaches are the most common and are caused by muscle tension and inflammation around the neck, head and jaw. Sinus headaches, which are also common, are caused by infections and allergic reactions. Both tension and sinus headaches are often relieved by anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Bromelain is an herbal remedy that has anti-inflammatory properties and may be effective at reducing symptoms of tension and sinus headaches.
Bromelain and Pineapples
Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme found within pineapples, both in the stem and flesh of the fruit. The stem, which is edible, contains more natural bromelain than the juice of the fruit. The stem is the most common commercial source of bromelain because it is the richest source and it is readily available after the fruit is harvested. Bromelain is not a single compound, but a group of protein-digesting enzymes that can be made into extracts and capsules. Bromelain is primarily produced in Japan, Hawaii and Taiwan, where it is promoted for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
History of Bromelain
Pineapple has been used as a medicinal plant for countless generations in South America and Central America. Extracts from the stem and fruit were applied to skin wounds to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Pineapple juice was enjoyed as a beverage, but it was discovered that it helped with indigestion and stomachaches. Christopher Columbus was introduced to the pineapple in 1493 and returned to Europe with samples. Bromelain was first isolated from pineapple in 1891 and was later introduced as a therapeutic remedy in 1957 and used as a digestive aid and natural anti-inflammatory, according to "Medical Herbalism."
Bromelain and Headaches
According to "Biochemistry of Human Nutrition," bromelain works by blocking pro-inflammatory metabolites when applied topically or consumed internally. Bromelain also increases the migration of immune system cells, such as neutrophils, to sites of acute inflammation. Consequently, bromelain is an effective remedy for sinusitis because it reduces inflammation and excessive production of mucus, which leads to increased pressure and frontal headache pain. People who suffer from hay fever and other seasonal allergies may also benefit from bromelain. Tension headache sufferers may also benefit if their headache pain is primarily due to inflammation in muscles of the upper neck, upper jaw or temple regions, as cited in "Human Biochemistry and Disease." There is no evidence, either scientific or anecdotal, that bromelain is of direct benefit to migraine sufferers.
Other Benefits of Bromelain
Bromelain is also used for arthritis pain, varicose veins, itchy skin, carpal tunnel syndrome, arterial plaque reduction and as a digestive aid. Due to its enzymatic properties, bromelain promotes digestion of meat, fish and poultry, which is why they are often served with pineapple in some countries. Pineapple also makes an effective marinade and meat tenderizer. Bromelain supplementation may affect heart rate and increase the risk of bleeding, so a medical professional should be consulted prior to use.
References
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "Biochemistry of Human Nutrition"; George Gropper; 2000
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease"; Gerald Litwack; 2008
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