Which fruit contains bromelain?
Bromelain is a group of enzymes found in the fruit and stem of the pineapple plant. Pineapple is native to the Americas but is now grown throughout the world in tropical and subtropical regions. Historically, natives of Central and South America used pineapple for a variety of ailments, such as digestive disorders.
Does bromelain have any health benefits?
Bromelain is a type of enzyme called a proteolytic enzyme. It is found in pineapple juice and in the pineapple stem. Bromelain causes the body to make substances that fight pain and swelling....
What are the side effects of bromelain?
Nov 07, 2021 · Bromelain is only available in natural form from the pineapple, a fruit that is native to Central America and South America, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Both the stem and the juice from the pineapple's flesh contain bromelain. Bromelain is a mixture of protein-digesting enzymes found in pineapples. Pineapple has been used for centuries in …
Can I take bromelain every day?
Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapple juice and in the pineapple stem. People use it for medicine. People use it for medicine. Bromelain is used for reducing swelling (inflammation), especially of the nose and sinuses, after surgery or injury.

What foods are high in bromelain?
You can get papain and bromelain by eating raw papaya and pineapple, respectively. You can also buy these proteolytic enzymes in concentrated supplement form....Kiwifruit.Ginger.Asparagus.Sauerkraut.Kimchi.Yogurt.Kefir.Feb 17, 2018
What is a natural source of bromelain?
While you can take bromelain as a supplement, the only natural food source of bromelain is pineapple, which is found in the stem/core and the juice.Mar 9, 2018
Is bromelain only found in pineapple?
Bromelain is an enzyme extract derived from the stems of pineapples, although it exists in all parts of the fresh pineapple.
What fruits is bromelain found in?
Pineapple is the only food known to contain bromelain, an enzyme that digests protein. The truth is, pineapple hurts to eat because bromelain is digesting the tender skin inside of your mouth.
Does bottled pineapple juice have bromelain?
Pineapple juice is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your body from damage and disease. It also contains bromelain, a group of enzymes that may reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and boost immunity.Apr 20, 2021
Does dried pineapple contain bromelain?
Dried pineapple is chock-full of a protective enzyme called bromelain. This enzyme fights inflammation that affects the tissues and organs of the body. Some research suggests that bromelain may be as effective in reducing swelling as anti-inflammatory medications.
Do bananas contain bromelain?
Ripe Bananas are Sexy Once you've peeled it down, you're left with a hefty dose of Vitamin B6 and potassium – two nutrients that are essential to sexual hormone production. Bananas in particular have been known to increase the libido in men since they contain bromelain enzyme, which helps with testosterone production.
How do you make pineapple bromelain?
The marketable bromelain is mostly extracted from the stem of pineapple through centrifugation, ultrafiltration, lyophilization (Corzo et al. 2011. Pineapple fruit bromelain affinity to different protein substrates.
Does cooking pineapple destroy bromelain?
The bromelain is broken down when heated so canned or boiled pineapple can be used with these products without causing a problem.
Who should not take bromelain?
Pregnant women and people with bleeding disorders, high blood pressure, and liver or kidney disease should not take bromelain. Bromelain may increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. You should stop taking bromelain at least 2 weeks before surgery.
Does frozen pineapple contain bromelain?
The recommended dosage of bromelain extract ranges from 160 to 1000 milligrams per day (divided into 4 doses). However, a cup of fresh or frozen pineapple may be even better than a pill. In a recent study, ingesting that much pineapple contained 13 times more active bromelain than a supplement.Apr 3, 2018
Does watermelon contain bromelain?
It also contains a special enzyme known as bromelain, which is believed to possess anticancer properties and has been shown to treat conditions like diarrhea, osteoarthritis and bronchitis.Aug 14, 2020
What is bromelain used for?
People sometimes use it as a medicine.#N#Bromelain is used for pain, muscle soreness, burns, and many other conditions , but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
What causes pain in the arms and legs?
Painful conditions caused by overuse of tendons (tendinopathy). Swelling in the arms or legs caused by damage to the lymph system ( lymphedema ).
Does bromelain help with sinusitis?
Swelling ( inflammation) of the nasal cavity and sinuses (rhinosinusitis). Early research shows that taking bromelain along with decongestants, antihistamines, or antibiotics helps reduce nasal swelling in people with sinusitis. But this research is not very reliable.
Is bromelain safe to take?
When taken by mouth: Bromelain is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth in appropriate amounts. Bromelain may cause some side effects, such as diarrhea and stomach and intestinal discomfort. Bromelain may also cause allergic reactions, especially in people who have other allergies.
Does bromelain affect antibiotics?
Taking bromelain might increase how much antibiotic the body absorbs. Taking bromelain along with some antibiotics might increase effects and side effects of some antibiotics called tetracyclines. Some tetracyclines include demeclocycline (Declomycin), minocycline (Minocin), and tetracycline (Achromycin). Medications that slow blood clotting ...
Does bromelain slow blood clotting?
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with BROMELAIN. Bromelain might slow blood clotting. Taking bromelain along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Does bromelain help with muscle soreness?
Muscle soreness caused by exercise. Taking bromelain by mouth after intense exercise does not seem to prevent muscle soreness. It also doesn't reduce pain or weakness or improve flexibility. Insufficient Evidence for.
Where can I find bromelain?
Bromelain is primarily found in the stem of the pineapple, which is not normally eaten. Bromelain supplements are sold as powders, creams, tablets or capsules, which may be used alone or in combination with other ingredients. There is no standard dosage of bromelain.
How much bromelain should I take a day?
There is no standard dosage of bromelain. Taking 200 milligrams (mg) to 400 mg three times a day on an empty stomach is often recommended. For children, halve this dosage. When used as a digestive aid, bromelain is usually taken with meals.
Who is Cathy Wong?
Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health. Learn about our editorial process. Cathy Wong. Medically reviewed by. Medically reviewed by Arno Kroner, DAOM, LAc on July 09, 2020. facebook.
Does bromelain help with cancer?
Bromelain supplements are said to treat a variety of health conditions, especially those associated with chronic inflammation, such as allergies , osteoarthritis , sinusitis, and ulcerative colitis . Bromelain is also said to stimulate digestion and improve heart health, as well as protect against some forms of cancer .
Is bromelain good for sinuses?
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), the best evidence for bromelain relates to the relief of symptoms of acute nasal and sinus inflammation when used in combination with standard medications.
Does bromelain help with bowel disease?
The study determined that bromelain may help suppress IBD-related inflammation.
Can pineapples cause allergies?
Contraindications. People with allergies to pineapples should avoid bromelain. Allergic reactions may also occur in people with allergies to latex, carrot, celery, fennel, rye, wheat, papain, bee venom, or grass, birch, or cypress pollens.
Where does bromelain come from?
Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme mixture derived from the stem, fruit, and juice of the pineapple plant. It has a centuries-long history of being used to treat medical ailments, primarily throughout Central and South America.
Why do people take bromelain?
People use bromelain topically, to remove dead skin from burns, and orally, to reduce inflammation and swelling — particularly of the nasal passages. Bromelain is also used as a digestive aid, for osteoarthritis, and to reduce soreness in aching muscles.
What are the side effects of bromelain?
As with all supplements, it’s important to discuss bromelain with your doctor prior to using it. Bromelain may cause mild side effects in some people, particularly when taken in high doses. These include: 1 diarrhea 2 nausea 3 vomiting 4 heavier-than-normal menstrual bleeding
How long does bromelain help with sinusitis?
Study participants were given bromelain daily for a 3-month period.
Can bromelain be taken as a cream?
Bromelain can be purchased in pill or tablet form for oral ingestion. It’s also available as a cream for topical use. Even though it’s extracted from pineapple, eating pineapple or drinking its juice doesn’t supply a large enough dose to be effective.
Is bromelain good for osteoarthritis?
Trusted Source. of clinical studies found that bromelain’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it an effective treatment for the pain, soft-tissue swelling, and joint stiffness associated with osteoarthritis.
Is bromelain good for cardiovascular disease?
An abstract. Trusted Source. reported that bromelain was effective at treating cardiovascular diseases, such as peripheral artery disease, stroke , heart attack, and high blood pressure. Bromelain inhibits the ability of blood platelets to stick or clump together (aggregation).
Where does bromelain come from?
The bromelain in topical salves and capsules is derived from the stem and juice of the pineapple plant 2. But while pineapple is a major dietary source of bromelain, it does not provide a medicinally-effective dosage of the substance 2. Nonetheless, pineapple is a wholesome addition to any diet and it can play a key role in maintaining good health ...
What is bromelain used for?
Since it is commonly believed to relieve upset stomach and heartburn, it is an age-old remedy for indigestion. Today, bromelain is popularly used to reduce inflammation related to infection, injury and arthritis.
Is pineapple good for you?
In addition to having trace amounts of bromelain, the flesh of pineapple is a valuable source of vitamin C, manganese and thiamin 2. Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that safeguards the body against free radicals that attack and destroy healthy cells. Free radicals facilitate the build-up of plaque in arteries, induce asthma attacks, promote colon cancer and contribute to joint pain. In addition to reducing the risk of these conditions, vitamin C supports immune function and prevents the recurrence of infection. Pineapple fruit is also a rich source of manganese and thiamin, nutrients that aid in antioxidant defenses and energy production 2. And like all fruits, regular consumption of pineapple can reduce an individual’s risk of developing age-related macular degeneration 2.
Is bromelain a proteolytic enzyme?
In fact, bromelain was once extracted from pineapple juice, but now the proteolytic enzyme is removed from mature plant stems 2. While its anti-inflammatory properties are mild, pineapple juice is commonly given to post-operative patients to alleviate pain from surgery 2.
Can pineapple juice be used as a meat tenderizer?
Pineapple juice can also be used as a meat tenderizer, although it will have a much lower concentration of bromelain 2. Cooked and canned pineapple are not as effective in tenderizing meat since their enzymes have denatured 2. 00:00. 00:04 08:02. GO LIVE.
What is the vitamin C in pineapple?
In addition to reducing the risk of these conditions, vitamin C supports immune function and prevents the recurrence of infection. Pineapple fruit is also a rich source of manganese and thiamin, nutrients that aid in antioxidant defenses and energy production 2.
Does bromelain help with indigestion?
Since it is commonly believed to relieve upset stomach and heartburn, it is an age-old remedy for indigestion. Today, bromelain is popularly used to reduce inflammation related to infection, injury and arthritis. And new evidence suggests that it is also effective in removing dead tissue from wounds and burns.
How long does bromelain last?
A study published in 2007 found that all 8 subjects treated with bromelain recovered completely after 3 months of treatment. (10)
Why is bromelain used in sports?
Because of its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, bromelain has great potential with regard to healing a variety of minor injuries like sprains and strains and muscle damage. It is becoming increasingly popular with athletes who need to speed up the recovery process following a sport’s injury.
Why are pineapples important?
Pineapples have been valued by Central and South American cultures for many centuries and typically used to ease inflammation and improve digestion. In the late 19th century, a Venezuelan scientist isolated bromelain which is an enzyme that digests protein from the fruit.
How long can you take bromelain?
Experts recommend not taking bromelain for more than 10 days consecutively. Side effects are regarded as mild but may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and excess menstrual bleeding. People with allergies to pineapples may also suffer bromelain allergies. Pregnant women should not take bromelain.
Is bromelain a good medicine?
Fortunately, a number of studies suggest that bromelain is an effective, safe and low cost alternative to commercially available pharma ceutical drugs. One study published in 2004 demonstrated that bromelain was just as effective as several popular prescription drugs when it came to treating inflammation. (1)
Does bromelain help with bone fractures?
Bromelain also has the potential to speed up healing following surgical procedures. In a Czech study published in 2001, researchers found that a preparation containing bromelain combined with rutin and trypsin significantly reduced swelling following surgery for long bone fractures.
Does bromelain cause swelling?
Following 3 weeks of treatment with bromelain and conventional medication, the researchers found that bromelain had a significant effect on swelling, pain levels and tenderness in the affected area. As with other studies, the researchers also found bromelain to be well tolerated with no adverse side effects. (6)

Health Benefits
Preparations & Dosage
- Eating large amounts of the fruit of the pineapple will not give the same effect as taking a bromelain supplement. Bromelain is primarily found in the stem of the pineapple, which is not normally eaten. Bromelain supplements are sold as powders, creams, tablets or capsules, which may be used alone or in combination with other ingredients. When used...
Possible Side Effects
- Side effects commonly associated with bromelain include abnormal uterine bleeding, diarrhea, drowsiness, heavy menstruation, increased heart rate, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. In some people, bromelain may trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms, such as breathing problems, tightness in the throat, hives, rash, and itchy skin.
Contraindications
- People with allergies to pineapples should avoid bromelain. Allergic reactions may also occur in people with allergies to latex, carrot, celery, fennel, rye, wheat, papain, bee venom, or grass, birch, or cypress pollens. In addition, pregnant women and people with peptic ulcers should not use bromelain. Those with other digestive disorders should consult their healthcare providers befor…