"Bromelain
A Digestive Enzyme That May Help Those With Food Allergies"

It may be as effective as some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medications such as Ibuprofen as it inhibits the release of chemicals that cause inflammation. Preliminary studies indicate it may be helpful in relieving pain associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

A report in The Windsor Star states that even though this herb is a digestive enzyme, it is also useful for conditions such as Osteo- and Rheumatoid Arthritis. This is because it is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatories in nature, and can be used for almost any inflammatory condition.

[Top] It prevents the clumping of blood platelets and may help prevent heart disease attributed to plaque buildup on the arterial walls. It has also been studied as a possible treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Angina.

It also has the capacity to thin the blood, which means it can be used to prevent blood clots. It does this by activating a chemical causing the breaking down of fibrin, a chemical partly responsible for blood clots.

By breaking down fibrin, Bromelain also helps to reduce swelling after traumatic injury as fibrin prevents tissues from draining properly.

It appears to be beneficial for individuals with food allergies, especially wheat and other grain allergies. In one Japanese study, it was added to wheat flour, which was subsequently used to make bread. It altered the chemical structure of the bread allowing those with wheat allergies to eat it without any reaction.

Some studies have shown it to be helpful in reducing swelling, bruising, pain and the time needed to heal following surgery.

Preliminary studies have found it may be useful in removing damaged tissues when applied directly to burned areas. This would allow treatment without surgery.

[Top] In a double-blind trial, 48 individuals with moderate to severe Sinusitis were given either Bromelain or placebo for a period of six days. All patients were placed on standard Sinusitis therapy including antihistamines, antibiotics, and analgesics.

At study's end, inflammation was reduced by 83 percent in the Bromelain group compared to 52 percent in the placebo group. Breathing difficulty was relieved in 78 percent of the study group compared to 68 percent of the placebo group.

[Top] A normal dose for this herb will range from 250 to 750 milligrams taken three times daily. However, other dosages may be recommended for different conditions. Check with your physician to see what is right for your particular circumstances.

[Top] It is essentially nontoxic with few side effects except for occasional gastrointestinal distress. The side effects noted in the literature include nausea, excessive menstrual bleeding, skin rash, and vomiting.

As it does tend to thin the blood, it should not be taken with blood thinning medications such as Coumadin. Check with your physician for a complete list of drug interactions.

Safety in young children, pregnant women, individuals with Kidney or liver disease, has not been established.

You should not take it if you have Hemophilia or any other blood clotting disorder. Do not take it if you have severe Liver or Kidney disease.

You can find out more about the many benefits of digestive enzymes by clicking here: go to Digestive Enzymes

Bromelain is a digestive enzyme that provides numerous health benefits ranging from pain relief to preventing heart disease. As a bonus, not only does it enhance digestion, it may be an effective treatment for those with Sinusitis!

Who would suspect a pineapple could be so healthy?

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