Bromelain, which is extracted from the stem and fruit of the pineapple plant, is beneficial for the heart, skin, joints, and stomach. This write-up highlights some remarkable bromelain benefits.
Pineapple has been known for its medicinal properties since a very long time. The fruit and stem of pineapple plants were used to heal wounds and reduce inflammation, whereas pineapple juice was known to cure all stomach-related problems.
After bromelain was first isolated in 1891, it was established that the stem of the pineapple plant contains a group of enzymes, which have some significant medicinal properties. Bromelain is prepared mainly from the juice of the stem, and is actually a mixture of enzymes. It stimulates the chemical activities in the body and also helps to digest proteins.
Health Benefits
Increasing the intake of pineapple won't reap the same health benefits. The levels of this chemical are higher in the stem of the pineapple plant, but it is not as tasty as the fruit.
If you can't eat the stem of pineapple, avail the benefits from the different supplements available in the market. They range from curing cardiovascular diseases to relieving muscle and joint pains.
It's extremely efficient to maintain the health of the heart, as it reduces the abnormal formation of blood clots and the occurrence of plaque in the arteries.
It possesses anti-coagulant properties, which help in reducing the formation of coagulated blood clots in blood vessels, thereby reducing the risk of heart diseases.
Being a protein-digesting enzyme, it breaks down the proteins in swollen tissues, thus relieving muscle spasms.
Due to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, it is very helpful for arthritic patients. It increases absorption of sulfur and glucosamine, which are important for repairing joints.
In case of torn ligaments, it helps in speedy recovery by significantly reducing the swelling and pain.
Skin diseases related to inflammation of the skin, or intense itching sensations like in pruritus can be effectively cured.
It is used in products made to cure skin burns, as it gets rid of dead skin cells.
Anti-inflammatory properties help to get rid of accumulated mucus in the upper respiratory tract, thus reducing the risk of sinusitis and bronchitis.
Enzymes can help to cure Peyronie's disease, by breaking down the collagen, which is responsible for formation of scar tissues.
By breaking down the proteins in the stomach, it can help to relieve abdominal pain, and also cure gastrointestinal problems.
Some studies have found that it can reduce the activity of cancer causing cells. In some animals, it was found to treat some bacteria and viruses effectively.
It has also been credited by a research for being helpful for treatment against autoimmune disorders, and also for treating urinary tract infections.
Side Effects
Though there are many benefits, it has some side effects if taken in a large quantity. So, take the supplements as advised by a dietitian or doctor. Some side effects include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and increased heart rate.
It should not be consumed by people with high blood pressure, bleeding problems, and liver and kidney diseases. People who are allergic to pineapple should avoid taking it. People should not take supplements when taking antibiotic and anticoagulant medications.
Research is still going on not only to unravel more benefits, but also on how it works. We can just hope that, the research reaps benefits in the near future, so that we can use bromelain to cure some other health problems as well.
Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.