Bromelain

See also Enzymatic Therapy Bromelain comes from pineapple plant, as a crude extract.

Special Precautions of Bromelain

• The bromelain in pineapple could potentially interact with certain medications. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consulting your physician before eating pineapple or taking bromelain supplements if you are currently taking antibiotics, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, blood thinners, insomnia drugs and tricyclic antidepressants. Alcohol and certain herbs, such as valerian root or kava, might also interact with bromelain.
• Most common side effects associated with bromelain include nausea, diarrhea and indigestion. Other side effects include tachycardia, fatigue and heavy menstruation. People with allergies to pineapple should avoid bromelain. Allergic reactions may also occur in people who are intolerant to celery, fennel, carrot, papain, & latex. People with peptic ulcers should not use bromelain either.

The benefits of Bromelain are

• Bromelain is a popular natural digestive aid due to it's ability to digest proteins. It's used for bloating, gas and other digestive symptoms and for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.
• Studies show that bromelain has anti-inflammatory, antiedematous, antithrombotic and some fibrinolytic activities on the body. Taken orally, it has gained acceptance in the medical field as a phytotherapeutical drug.
• For wounds and burns, when bromelain is applied directly to the burnt skin, it can help in the debridement process, allowing the removal of dead tissues much easier and less painful. However, this is only good for those up to third degree burn. Fourth degree burn should be under the supervision of the doctor.
• Bromelain and supplements utilizing this enzyme are particularly useful for athletes and people involved in intense exercise. Although studies show mixed results, bromelain may reduce swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain following surgery and physical injuries. It is often used to reduce inflammation associated with tendinitis, sprains and strains, and with other minor muscle injuries such as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
• Since cancer cells are protected from the immune system's white "killer" cells by a protein wall, any cancer treatment can be augmented by adding bromelain supplements.
• sinusitis: Bromelain has been suggested as a complementary treatment for sinusitis. Preliminary studies suggest that it may help reduce congestion, improve breathing and suppress coughing.