Pineapple is a fruit originating in Central and South America, where it has been used to treat indigestion and inflammation for centuries, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pineapple and pineapple juice get their medicinal properties from the protein-digesting enzyme bromelain. However, to receive the health benefits of bromelain you would need to drink a large amount of pineapple juice or eat a large number of pineapples. Alternatively, bromelain is available over the counter as a natural supplement.
Bromelain
Bromelain is useful in treating a wide range of health conditions. Several research studies have been carried out worldwide indicating that bromelain is effective in reducing inflammation due to injury or illness, removing dead, flaking skin resulting from burns and treatment of dermatological disorders, as noted in a review by Bitange Nipa Tochi and colleagues at the School of Food Science and Technology at Jiangnan University, China.
Bromelain and Inflammation
Bromelain may reduce swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain following surgery and physical injuries. It is often used to reduce inflammation associated with minor muscle injuries. Individual responses may vary, as research show mixed results, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Use of bromelain for one month results in significant improvement from acute knee pain in otherwise healthy individuals, according to research by Walker and colleagues, published in the December 2002 issue of "Phytomedicine."
Topical Bromelain
Bromelain gently lifts and removes older, upper layers of your skin. This exfoliation reveals younger, fresher-looking skin cells that lay beneath. Using bromelain topically aids in the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles through the removal of older skin cells. In the same manner, bromelain effectively removes peeling skin resulting from burns in as little as two days with no damage to surrounding tissues, report Tochi and colleagues at Jiangnan University. Bromelain can also be used topically to relieve itching due to insect bites.
Side Effects
Current evidence indicates that bromelain supplements are well tolerated at recommended doses. The therapeutic effects of bromelain are enhanced in a dose-dependent manner, according to Tochi and colleagues. Bromelain has been noted to cause side effects in some individuals, cautions the University of Maryland Medical Center. These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and excessively heavy menstrual flow. Bromelain may cause an allergic reaction, especially in people who have other allergies. Before taking any new supplement or medication consult your doctor regarding any contraindications.
References
- Medline Plus: U.S. National Institute of Health; Bromelain; 2010
- "Pakistan Journal of Nutrition;" Therapeutic Application of Pineapple Protease (Bromelain): A Review; Bitange Nipa Tochi et al.; 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Bromelain; 2009
- "Phytomedicine;" Bromelain Reduces Mild Acute Knee Pain and Improves Well-Being in a Dose-Dependent Fashion in an Open Study of Otherwise Healthy Adults; Walker et al.; 2002
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