Bromelain is the name given to enzymes extracted from the stems of pineapples and used as herbal medicine. Supporters of bromelain claim it provides many health benefits, including reducing blood-clotting, inflammation, allergies and arthritis symptoms. Although bromelain is generally safe, it may cause side effects, including an increased risk of excess bleeding. As with any health supplement, consult a qualified health care provider before taking bromelain.
Blood-Clotting
Bromelain possesses anticoagulant properties, meaning is slows down the ability of blood to clot. In laboratory studies, bromelain reduces the ability of specialized red blood cells, known as platelets, to clump together, or aggregate, reports a paper published in the January-February 1999 issue of the medical journal "In Vivo." This process of platelet aggregation is the first step of the blood-clotting process. By reducing platelet aggregation, bromelain slows blood-clotting.
Use
These anticoagulant properties of bromelain, which are also commonly referred to as blood-thinning properties, can be beneficial for certain people. Blood-thinners have many medical applications, including improving blood circulation, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke, and improving recovery from heart valve surgery, explains MedlinePlus. In cases of medical needs such as these, doctors will often prescribe prescription anticoagulant medications. Always consult a doctor before attempting to use bromelain as a blood-thinner.
Risks
Because of the blood-thinning effects of bromelain, taking high doses may increase the risk of excess bleeding after minor cuts or bruises. Use extreme caution taking bromelain while also taking other blood-thinning medications such as warfarin, aspirin or Plavix, because the combined activity of two blood-thinners may greatly increase the risk of severe bleeding or bruising, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Other Side Effects
Bromelain may cause additional mild side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach irritation or diarrhea, explains MedlinePlus. People who are allergic to pineapple may experience an allergic reaction to bromelain, which can cause sneezing, runny nose, wheezing, hives or rash. Bromelain may also increase blood levels of antibiotics, such as tetracycline or amoxicillin, which could possibly increase the risk of side effects from these medications.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Bromelain
- MedlinePlus: Blood-Thinners
- "In Vivo"; Bromelain Proteases Reduce Human Platelet Aggregation in Vitro, Adhesion to Bovine Endothelial Cells and Thrombus Formation in Rat Vessels in Vivo; C. Metzig et al.; January-February 1999
- MedlinePlus: Bromelain; November 2010
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Bromelain; November 2010
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