Overview

Bromelain is an enzyme that is not only great for aiding the digestion of proteins but also has shown promising anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain and swelling caused by sprains, strains, and muscle injuries.

Usage

Amount: Between 80 and 320 mg of bromelain, depending on the amount of physical activity, taken 3 times daily, has shown positive results.

Don't be surprised if products are listed in MCU's (milk clotting units—measuring strength of the enzyme). Manufacturers will most likely tell you how this converts to milligrams or what "strength" one gram will contain. Note that while strength varies from product to product, one gram of bromelain will often contain the strength of 2,000 MCU. Between 500 and 3,000 MCU's 3 times daily is the beneficial range. (Note that other companies use GDU—gelatin digesting unit—which is equal to 1.5 MCU.)

Timing: Most effective when taken immediately following meals.

Athletes have found bromelain may help them combat inflamed muscles and joints, relieving aches and pains both after intense workouts and when recovering from an injury. In addition, it's been shown to help improve digestion, especially of protein—part of the building blocks of muscle tissue—and increase nutrient absorption.

Safety Information

Safety:
Bromelain is generally very safe, but it does act as a mild blood thinner. So, if you are on any blood-thinning medications, consult your physician before adding this or any other supplement to your regimen.

Known drug interactions:
Contraindicated with any blood-thinner medications.

Toxicity:
None known.

Bans and Restrictions:
None reported.

References

Blonstein, J.L., "Control of Swelling in Boxing Injuries," Practitioner 203.214 (1969) : 206.

Cirelli, M.G., "Treatment of Inflammation and Edema with Bromelain," Delaware Med J 34.6 (1962) :159-67.

Cohen, A., and Goldman, J., "Bromelains Therapy in Rheumatoid Arthritis," Pennsylvania Med J 67 (1964) : 27-30.

Heinicke, R., et al., "Effect of Bromelain (Ananase) on Human Platelet Aggregation," Experientia 28 (1972) : 844-45.

Masson, M., "Bromelain in the Treatment of Blunt Injuries to the Musculoskeletal System. A Case Observation Study by an Orthopedic Surgeon in Private Practice," Fortschr Med 113.19 (1995) : 303-6.

Mori, S., et al., "The Clinical Effect of Proteolytic Enzyme Containing Bromelain and Trypsin on Urinary Tract Infection Evaluated by Double Blind Method," Acta Obstet Gynaecol Jpn 19 (1972) : 147-53.

Nieper, H.A., "Effect of Bromelain on Coronary Heart Disease and Angina Pectoris," Acta Med Empirica 5 (1978) : 274-8.

Seligman, B., "Bromelain: An Anti-Inflammatory Agent," Angiology 13 (1962) : 508-10.

Seltzer, A.P., "Minimizing Post-Operative Edema and Ecchymoses by the Use of an Oral Enzyme Preparation (Bromelain)," EENT Monthly 41 (1962) : 813-17.

Schafer, A., and Adelman, B., "Plasma Inhibition of Platelet Function and of Arachidonic Acid Metabolism," J Clin Invest 75 (1985) : 456-61.

Taub, S.J., "The Use of Ananase in Sinusitis. A Study of 60 Patients," EENT Monthly 45 (1966) : 96-8.

Taussig, S.J., and Batkin, S., "Bromelain, the Enzyme Complex of Pineapple (Ananas comosus) and its Clinical Application. An Update," J Ethnopharmacol 22.2 (1988) : 191-203.