Bromelain (ananas comosus)

Other names
Synopsis
Uses: Health Conditions
Uses: Body Systems
Products

Other names

Bromelain Enzyme
Pineapple-Derived Bromelain
Proteolytic Enzyme Complex (with Bromelain)

Synopsis

Bromelain is a proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzyme complex extracted primarily from the stem and juice of pineapples (Ananas comosus). It has been extensively studied for its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and immune-modulating properties, making it a versatile supplement used in gastrointestinal health, injury recovery, and immune support. Unlike many enzymes that only work in the digestive tract, bromelain is absorbed intact in the bloodstream, where it can exert systemic effects.

Key health benefits of bromelain include:

Aiding digestion, particularly of proteins, and relieving bloating, indigestion, and gas
Reducing inflammation and pain in conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, and sports injuries
Accelerating recovery from trauma, surgery, or dental procedures by minimizing swelling and bruising
Supporting immune balance and reducing inflammatory cytokine levels
Acting as a natural mucolytic, helping to thin mucus in respiratory conditions
Enhancing absorption of other nutrients or herbal compounds

Bromelain is typically taken in capsules or tablets, with lower doses used for digestion (with meals) and higher doses for systemic anti-inflammatory effects (between meals).

Historical Use:

The pineapple plant has long been used in South American and Caribbean folk medicine for wound healing, digestive issues, and inflammation. Indigenous populations used pineapple juice and pulp topically and internally to treat burns, swelling, and indigestion.

Bromelain was first isolated and studied scientifically in the late 19th century, and by the mid-20th century, it became widely available as a natural anti-inflammatory and digestive enzyme. German and Japanese researchers were among the first to explore its clinical applications for sinusitis, soft tissue injuries, and joint pain.

Today, bromelain is commonly included in:

Digestive enzyme blends
Anti-inflammatory and recovery supplements
Sinus and respiratory health formulas
Joint support products, especially those combined with turmeric or quercetin

Bromelain remains a safe and well-tolerated enzyme therapy for those seeking natural support for digestion, inflammation reduction, and enhanced recovery from physical stress or injury.

Uses: Health Conditions

Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Cartilage Damage (Traditional)
Celiac Disease (Traditional)
Cellulite (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Protein Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Rhinitis (Traditional)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Traditional)
Sinus Infection (Traditional)

Body Systems

Muscles (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Sinuses (Traditional)

Products containing this ingredient

Health Concerns

Brands