Health Benefits And Uses Of Bromelain

Support for Healthy Inflammation Management

Bromelain Background and Benefits

Bromelain is an enzyme found in the Bromeliaceae family, which includes the pineapple plant. The term "bromelain" may also refer specifically to two enzymes in this extract rather than the entire extract. These enzymes are commonly known as stem bromelain and fruit bromelain, according to their area of greatest concentration in the pineapple plant. Both of these enzymes are proteolytic, meaning that they help split the peptide bonds between amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

The Venezuelan chemist Vicente Marcano first isolated bromelain in 1891 from fermented pineapple fruit. Russell Henry Chittenden named this extract "bromelin" after the pineapple plant's family name in 1892 when he investigated its properties more thoroughly. The term "bromelin" was later replaced by "bromelain." Bromelain is found in all parts of the pineapple plant, although commercially it is extracted from the stems that remain after harvesting the fruit.

Pineapples have an extensive history in folk medicine among the natives of Central and South America. One of the most common modern uses of bromelain is to help reduce swelling, especially in the sinuses and nose. It is also used for ulcerative colitis, hay fever and the removal of dead tissue resulting from burns. In addition, bromelain is a common ingredient in meat tenderizers.

We use this enzyme in our Xtend-Life formulas to enhance the bioavailability of the other ingredients in which it is combined.

Uses of Bromelain

Bromelain is often used for sinusitis. It is also used to debride tissue for severe burns. Some people take bromelain as a digestive aid.

Signs You May Need Bromelain

Bromelain may help you manage inflammation and swelling, especially in mucosal tissue such as the nose and sinuses. Bromelain may be helpful for maintaining healthy joint function and relieving discomfort if you have joint problems. It is also available in creams for relief from burns and rashes.

Synonyms and Similar Forms of Bromelain

Pineapple enzyme, digestive enzyme