Bromelain

Bromelain

Bromelain is a collection of protein-digesting enzymes found in the stems of the pineapple plant. It acts primarily to help maintain homeostasis in inflammatory processes. Its activity is measured in Milk Clotting Units (MCUs).

Anti-inflammatory: Talussig, 1980

Digestive Enzyme: Barbarino, 1982

Standardized: 179 mg (equivalent to 1000 Milk Clotting Units)
3 x daily (one hour before meals or two hours after meals) as an anti-inflammatory or with meals as a digestive aid.

Pharmacology:

Bromelain inhibits the enzyme thromboxane synthetase. This enzyme converts prostaglandin H2 into pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and thromboxanes. Early research has shown that Bromelain may be beneficial in managing arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Use of entericoated tablets at low dosages, however, produced no benefit. More research is needed.

Theoretical Cautions and Contraindications:

Use with caution in individuals with hypertension or other cardiac disorders and in those with GI ulceration or active bleeding. Use with caution in individuals taking anticoagulant medications, aspirin and aspirin-containing products, NSAIDs, and antiplatelet agents. Discontinue use two weeks prior to surgical or dental procedures. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women or those with liver or kidney disease has not been established.

Theoretical Interactions:

Aspirin, anticoagulants, NSAIDs and antiplatelet drugs.

References:

Barbarino F, Szabo P, and Neumann E, "The Influence of Bromelain on Digestion and Absorption in Control Animals and in Methotrexate-Induced ‘Cytostatic’ Enteropathy," J Nuci Med Allied Sci, 1982, 26(2):97-103.

Heinicke RM, van der Wal L, and Yokoyama M, "Effect of Bromelain (Anase) on Human Platelet Aggregations," Experientia, 1972, 28(7):844-5.

Leung AY and Foster S, Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics, New York, NY: Wiley, 1996, 100-3.

Taussig SJ, "The Mechanism of the Physiological Action of Bromelain," Med Hypotheses, 1980, 6(1): 99-104.

LaValle, J.B., Krinsky, D.L., Hawkins, E.B, et. al., Natural Therapeutics Pocket Guide, Lexi-Comp, USA, 2000.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Material herein is derived from journals, textbooks, news releases, reference guides, etc. Graham Development, Inc. cannot be held responsible for the validity of the information contained in any reference noted herein or for the misuse of information or any adverse effects by use of any stated materials presented. ©2000 Scientific Herbals-unauthorized reproduction of this document is prohibited.

Bromelain 1000MCU 21.99

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