Pineapple Juice Effects

The pineapple is one of the most sought-after juices on the market today. Used widely in alcoholic drinks for its sweetness and in various cooking dishes to accentuate other fruits, it is high in vitamins and minerals and is one of the most popular of all grocery store fruits. The tree is an exotic symbol and has been the focus of many vacations, tourist parties and beach luaus.

History

The pineapple has been a desirable fruits for many years in the United States. It has been used for trade, food and in tribal feasts. The European use of the pineapple can be traced to 1493, when Christopher Columbus and his crew were sailing in the Caribbean. Columbus and his crew discovered piles of the harvested fruit near human body parts on a volcanic island now known as Guadeloupe. The crew ate and documented the fruit.

Medicinal

Pineapple juice has laxative and tonic effects on the body. It can help to soothe gastric irritability. It has also been used for jaundice and fevers. Folk remedies use all parts of the fruit, including the peel and juice. The juice provides the same immune building properties as orange and papaya juice. When sipped, the juice can relieve bronchitis and a sore throat. It's also used to aide in the recovery of tuberculosis by dissolving mucus.

Studies

Pineapple contains bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory benefits for the body. According to a study published in Volume 58, Issue 9 of "Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences," bromelain can help with sinusitis, bronchitis and trauma from surgery. Bromelain also enhances the absorption of antibiotics. In the study, bromelain was given to subjects with mammary tumors to complement their tumor therapy. The growth of tumor cells was inhibited. Bromelain was also found to speed wound healing.

Nutrition

Pineapple contains a high amount of thiamin and manganese. Thiamin helps to prevent depression by maintaining a healthy nervous system. Manganese is an important mineral that is used in the production of energy. There is also a high amount of vitamin C in pineapple. Vitamin C is beneficial for the prevention of many diseases because it acts as an antioxidant. The Vitamin B6 in pineapple helps to control hormone levels and to nourish the nervous system to prevent emotional disorders.

Warnings

Although the pineapple is delicious and sought after for its unique sweetness, the juice of the unripe fruit can be dangerous. If large quantities are consumed, vomiting, skin rash and diarrhea can occur. If the pineapple juice is consumed by pregnant women, it should be in small quantities. Pineapple can cause a uterine contraction that might cause an accidental abortion.

References

• Effects of Bromelain
• Vitamin Content of Pineapple Juice
• Nutrients and Vitamins in Pineapple

Resources

• Pineapple History
• Benefits and Uses of Pineapple Juice
• BetterJuice.com