• Bromelain is extremely efficient to maintain heart health 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 bromelain benefits patients of arthritis. Bromelain increases the absorption of sulfur and glucosamine which are important for repairing joints.
• In the 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 by bromelain.
• It is also used in products made to cure skin burns as it gets rid of dead skin cells.
• Anti-inflammatory properties of bromelain help to get rid of accumulated mucus in the upper respiratory tract, thus reducing the risk of diseases like sinusitis and bronchitis.
• Enzymes in bromelain can help to cure Peyronie’s disease, by breaking down the collagen which is responsible for the formation of scar tissues.
• By breaking down the proteins in the stomach bromelain can help relieve abdominal pain and also cure gastrointestinal problems.
• Some studies have found that bromelain can reduce the activity of cancer-causing cells. In some animals, bromelain was found to treat some bacteria and viruses effectively.
• Research also credited bromelain in being helpful for treatment against autoimmune disorders and also for treating urinary tract infections. Research for finding other bromelain benefits is still going on.

Bromelain Side Effects

Though bromelain benefits are many, it has some side effects if taken in large quantity. So take bromelain supplements as advised by a dietitian or doctor. Some side effects of bromelain include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and increased heart rate. People with high blood pressure, bleeding problems, liver and kidney diseases should not consume bromelain. People who are allergic to pineapple should avoid the use of bromelain. People should not take bromelain supplements when taking antibiotics and anticoagulant medications. Read more on bromelain side effects.

The recommended dosage of bromelain, when used to treat inflammation, is 500 mg. When used as a digestive aid, the prescribed dosage is again 500 mg per day, while for arthritis patients it is 2500 mg per day (500 mg and 2000 mg doses, twice a day). But, in order to remain on the safer side, you must consult the dietitian for an appropriate dosage. Research is still going on not only to unravel more bromelain benefits but also on how bromelain 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.