Uses of Bromelain
Bromelain is an enzyme that comes from pineapple. It has many medicinal uses, from dietary supplementation, to treating injuries, to its heart-healthy benefits. Dosage amounts vary, and bromelain is by and large considered safe with no adverse side effects. As with any supplement, contact your doctor with questions and concerns before taking bromelain.
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Digestion
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Bromelain is frequently used to help with digestive distress. It is especially useful in the digestion of proteins. Some also use bromelain to treat malabsorption.
Wounds, Bruises, Sports Injuries
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Bromelain may help wounds and bruises heal faster. It is also readily accepted as an effectual treatment for those suffering from sports injuries and for people recovering from surgery, infections and various forms of trauma.
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Heart Disease
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Bromelain is a natural blood thinner. It has been shown to arrest the clumping of platelets and thus is believed to help in the prevention of heart disease. It has been researched for such uses, alone and with other therapies, in treating angina and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Inflammation
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Bromelain supplements taken daily in doses of up to 1,800 mg have been shown to assist in alleviating painful inflammation of the joints. People suffering from rheumatoid arthritis may find it helpful. Bromelain may also benefit those who have sinusitis. By minimizing swelling of the passageways in the sinuses, bromelain supplements may help with breathing.
PMS and UTI
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By restraining prostaglandin hormones, bromelain supplements may aid those dealing with PMS. Bromelian can help with cramps, but some say it may also augment blood flow during the menstrual cycle. When taken with another enzyme, called trysin, bromelain may boost the effectiveness of antibiotics taken to clear up urinary tract infections.
Evidence
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According to the websites of the National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, the tests on bromelain's benefits are unclear and, at best, are good. It is considered safe, but results and efficacy vary.
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