Bromelain is an enzyme that is found in the stem and juices of pineapple. Natives in South and Central America have used pineapples to reduce inflammation. The enzyme has been isolated from the pineapple juice and is available in pill or tablet form. Some research suggests that bromelain may be effective in treating sinusitis.
Bromelain
Bromelain is used as a treatment for a number of different conditions. Some studies suggest that bromelain can reduce heartburn and stomach upset. It also helps to remove dead skin from serious burns in animal studies. The enzyme is utilized as a topical treatment to reduce swelling related to insect bites. Some animal studies suggest that bromelain may be effective in treating infections. However, much of this research is preliminary and more research needs to be done before the effectiveness of bromelain in treating various conditions is understood.
Treatment in Sinusitis
In Germany, bromelain is an approved treatment for sinus and nasal swelling following ear, nose, and throat surgery or trauma. In a 2005 study, published in "In Vivo" journal, children with acute sinusitis treated with bromelain recovered significantly quicker than children that were treated with standard therapy of antihistamines, analgesics, and antibiotics or a combination of standard therapy and bromelain. Other studies have also confirmed that bromelain is an effective treatment for sinusitis in both adults and children.
Dosage and Supplements
Bromelain is sold as a supplement at many health food stores. It is available in capsule and tablet form. Speak to your child's physician before using bromelain supplements as a treatment for sinusitis. Because bromelain is not an approved treatment for sinusitis in the United States, no dosage guidelines exist. Ask your child's treating physician for appropriate dosage. The German Commission E recommends 80 mcg to 320 mg two to three times per day. Start with the lowest recommended dose until you can see how your child tolerates the supplement.
Precautions
Bromelain is generally considered safe and only has a few mild known side effects. Side effects include nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. People who are allergic to pineapple may experience allergic reactions to bromelain. Bromelain is known to thin the blood to some extent and is not recommended for people who are on blood thinning medications. Other possible interactions can occur with antibiotics and sedatives. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that pregnant women, people with bleeding disorder, high blood pressure or liver and kidney disease should not take bromelain without consulting a physician.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Bromelain; Steven D. Ehrlich; March 2009
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Bromelain
- In Vivo; Therapeutic Use, Efficiency and Safety of the Proteolytic Pineapple Enzyme Bromelain-POS in Children with Acute Sinusitis in Germany; J.M. Braun; March-April 2005
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