Headaches can range in intensity, location of pain and length of duration. Medicines, as well as herbs and supplements, that work on one type of headache, may prove ineffective in treating others. Bromelain, a substance derived from pineapples, may be beneficial in helping alleviate inflammation. While bromelain's properties may help relieve the discomfort of some sinus headaches, there is no evidence supporting its use in treating other varieties of headaches.
Bromelain
The people of South and Central America used pineapple as a natural anti-inflammatory agent for centuries. This tropical fruit contains a group of enzymes known as bromelain. Bromelain is an approved treatment in Germany for relieving the nasal and sinus inflammation that occurs after surgery or trauma. Although more research is necessary, some studies indicate that bromelain may help treat arthritis, indigestion, infection and the swelling associated with injuries. The standard uses for bromelain do not include using this supplement as a treatment for ordinary headaches or migraine pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, some alternative medicine supplements that may help with migraines include feverfew, butterbur, riboflavin, magnesium and coenzyme Q10.
Sinus Headaches
Although the symptoms of a sinus headache can resemble those of migraines and tension headaches, sinus headaches usually occur in response to inflammation in your sinus cavities. Common symptoms include pain in a certain area of your face that increases when you apply pressure to the area or bend over. The headache can begin during a cold and remain after the other cold symptoms go away. You may also notice a sense of fatigue, experience nasal drainage and feel feverish. Bromelain supplements may help reduce the inflammation that can contribute to the pain of a sinus headache, although some studies do not confirm this effect.
Dosage
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the dosage for treating injuries in adults is 500 mg four times per day, taken on an empty stomach. There are no specific dosing recommendations for treating sinus headaches, however.
Precautions
Like some other herbal supplements, using bromelain in place of standard medications may cause side effects. Possible side effects include an increase in menstrual bleeding, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Bromelain may interfere with your blood's ability to clot and can interact with medications that control clotting, such as anti-coagulants and anti-platelet medications. Bromelain can also interact with certain sedatives, including barbiturates, antidepressants and alcohol. See your doctor if you experience recurrent or severe headaches, since some headaches may indicate the presence of a medical disorder or serous condition.
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