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Bromelain for Infection

Bromelain is combination of enzymes that break down protein (proteolytic enzymes) that are made from the stem and fruit of pineapples. For centuries it has been used for therapeutic purposes, including treating infections.

  1. Inflammation

    • One of the most common features of infection is the presence of tissue inflammation. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that bromelain is effective as an anti-inflammatory agent, which can help to reduce the pain of infection.

    Prescription Antibiotics

    • The National Institute of Health reports that bromelain may increase antibiotic absorption. This could, theoretically, improve the overall efficacy of the antibiotics which are used in treating infection.

    Availability

    • Bromelain is sold as a nutritional supplement and is widely available in both capsule and tablet forms.

    Warning

    • In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, bromelain may also exert an anticoagulant effect on the blood. As such, bromelain should not be taken to help treat infection if a person is taking anticoagulant medications like warfarin.

    The Future

    • The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that there is some evidence that bromelain may, in fact, exert antibacterial and antiviral effects of its own. However, research has not been conducted, as of 2009, to confirm these effects.

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