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What Is Bromelain In?

Bromelain is derived from pineapple. While eating the actual pineapple fruit will give you bromelain in your diet, the concentrations are not high. There are several health benefits of bromelain, and more are being researched. Because side effects of and reactions to bromelain are rare, it is an herbal and medical supplement that is used often. A large percentage of the world's bromelain is used in Germany, although it is available in the United States and other countries as well.

  1. Definition

    • Bromelain is a type of plant extract that is obtained from the stem or the fruit of Ananas comosus, commonly known as the pineapple. The extract is a protease enzyme that helps to initiate proteolysis. Proteolysis is the digestion of proteins. While bromelain refers to this particular enzyme within the pineapple plant, it also refers to the extract made from the plant, which can also contain other enzymes, peroxidase, acid phosphatase, protease inhibitors and calcium.

    Benefits

    • Bromelain helps to break down proteins, but it also has other benefits. Health benefits of the bromelain extract include its use as an anti-inflammatory to treat such conditions as arthritis. It can also help relieve swelling and can be used to treat burns. The digestive properties of bromelain and its ability to break down proteins are the most popular, however. Scientists are exploring whether bromelain has applications in the treatment of cancer and AIDS.

    Culinary Sources

    • Bromelain is present within the fruit and juice of the pineapple, but in minute amounts. The extract is usually made from the stem of the pineapple. Bromelain extract in powder form is a major component of many meat tenderizers. The extract breaks down connective tissues and protein in meat to make it more tender.

    Supplement Sources

    • Bromelain is also sold as a supplement, usually in capsule form, to aid digestion or as a treatment for digestive problems such as gas, bloating or irritable bowel syndrome. There are also topical uses for bromelain; creams are being developed and used for burn and wound treatment.

    Considerations

    • There is a possibility of an allergic reaction to bromelain, indicated by breathing problems and skin reactions. There are also possible drug interactions and side effects that include nausea and vomiting. If you have digestive health problems, consult your doctor before using bromelain supplements.

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