Bromelain Powder

Bromelain Pineapple Extract Powder 1.5 Ounces   Ananas comosus; Bromelainum

Bromelain consists mostly of proteolytic enzymes which digest protein. When Bromelain is taken with a meal, it helps with digestion. When taken on an empty stomach, it enters the blood and has beneficial anti-inflammatory activity in the body. Research indicates that Bromelain's anti-inflammatory activity is due not only to its proteolytic enzymes but also to various other constituents in the pineapple.

Bromelain's anti-inflammatory activity appears to occur in a variety of ways. It is believed that bromelain inhibits the formation of thromboxanes, substances that cause joint soreness and stiffness. Bromelain's ability to help control run-away inflammation in the body has broad health benefits.

The strength or activity level of bromelain is usually measured in GDU (gelatin digesting units) per gram. Gelatin is protein. GDU per gram is a measure of how much protein a gram of bromelain can digest.

For anti-inflammatory purposes, it is best to take bromelain on an empty stomach so it doesn't get used up digesting protein from food you ate. However, if the GDU per serving is high enough, it won't all get used in digestion and there will still be some left over to get absorbed into the blood. Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in pineapples (Ananas comosus) that digest protein (proteolytic). Pineapple has been used for centuries in Central and South America to treat indigestion and reduce inflammation. Bromelain, which is derived from the stem and juice of the pineapple, was first isolated from the pineapple plant in the late 1800s. The German Commission E approved bromelain to treat swelling and inflammation after surgery, particularly sinus surgery. Bromelain can be used to treat a number of conditions, but it is particularly effective in reducing inflammation from infection and injuries. 

Surgery, Sprains and Strains, and Tendinitis  Although studies show mixed results, bromelain may reduce swelling, bruising, healing time, and pain after surgery and physical injuries. It is often used to reduce inflammation from tendinitis, sprains and strains, and other minor muscle injuries. Studies of people having dental, nasal, and foot surgeries found it reduced inflammation. In Europe, bromelain is used to treat sinus and nasal swelling following ear, nose, and throat surgery or trauma.  

Wounds and Burns  Studies in animals suggest that bromelain, when applied to the skin, may be useful in removing dead tissue from third-degree burns, a process called debridement. One preliminary study of a debridement agent that is derived from bromelain to treat people with second- and third-degree burns showed a benefit. Severe burns require a doctor's care. Do not apply bromelain to broken skin. 

Sinusitis (Sinus Inflammation) Although not all studies agree, bromelain may help reduce cough and nasal mucus associated with sinusitis. It may also relieve the swelling and inflammation caused by hay fever.

Arthritis  Studies show mixed results. One study suggested that a combination of bromelain, rutosid and trypsin worked as well for reducing knee pain from osteoarthritis as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are commonly used pain relievers. NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and diclofenac (Voltaren), among others. Early studies suggest that bromelain may also help reduce pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis. More research is needed.  

Bromelain is found in the common pineapple plant, but not in high enough doses to act as medicine.

Bromelain is also used as a meat tenderiser. 1 teaspoon per pound 

Bromelain is an enzyme from the pineapple fruit. Bromelain enzyme powder is easily encapsulated as a dietary supplement, or it can be added to smoothies and fruit drinks. When added to marinades or sprinkled directly on meat, bromelain degrades protein and collagen, which tenderizes the food. In fact, because this enzyme is present in all parts of the plant, including the fruit, this explains why pineapple cannot be used to make gelatin.