ING-160Ingredient Research Profile

Superfoods & Botanicals

Bromelain

Also known as: Pineapple enzyme · Ananas comosus extract

●●○Moderate Evidence

A cysteine protease from pineapple stem with anti-inflammatory, fibrinolytic, and digestive properties. Clinically effective for sinusitis, post-surgical swelling, and musculoskeletal inflammation.

Effective Dose

200–400mg (GDU 1200–2400) / day

per clinical evidence

Evidence Level

Moderate

Superfoods & Botanicals

Mechanism

Cysteine protease — anti-inflammatory, fibrinolytic, mucolytic

primary action

Best For

Sinusitis

Muscle soreness, Post-injury inflammation, Protein digestion

This profile is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications.

What Is Bromelain?

Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes from pineapple stem (Ananas comosus). Taken on an empty stomach, it is absorbed systemically and acts as an anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic agent. Taken with food, it functions primarily as a digestive enzyme. Its anti-inflammatory mechanism is distinct from NSAIDs and complements other natural anti-inflammatory agents.

How It Works: The Science

Bromelain cleaves fibrin (anti-thrombotic, reduces post-surgical oedema), activates plasminogen (fibrinolytic), inhibits thromboxane A2 synthesis (anti-platelet), and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) via NF-κB inhibition. It also directly degrades CD44 on immune cells, modulating immune trafficking.

Primary Mechanism

Cysteine protease — anti-inflammatory, fibrinolytic, mucolytic

Evidence-Based Benefits

Reduces sinusitis symptoms (nasal swelling, breathing difficulty)

strong

GhenBot et al. (2006) — approved in Germany for acute sinusitis

Reduces post-surgical and traumatic oedema

moderate

Multiple surgical RCTs — significant reduction in swelling, bruising, and pain

Reduces DOMS and muscle soreness

moderate

Shing et al. (2006) — significant reduction in muscle damage markers post-exercise

Dosage Guide

Effective Dose

200–400mg (GDU 1200–2400) / day

200–400mg (1200–2400 GDU) on an empty stomach for systemic anti-inflammatory effect. With meals for digestive use. GDU (gelatin digesting units) is the relevant potency measurement.

Safety Profile & Side Effects

Pineapple allergy is a contraindication. Mild anticoagulant effect — caution with blood thinners. May increase skin absorption of certain drugs topically applied simultaneously.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Take It

Best for

SinusitisMuscle sorenessPost-injury inflammationProtein digestion

Who it's for

Those with acute sinusitis, post-injury inflammation, and DOMS, as well as those using NSAIDs who want a natural alternative. Works well alongside curcumin and boswellia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended dose of Bromelain?

200–400mg (1200–2400 GDU) on an empty stomach for systemic anti-inflammatory effect. With meals for digestive use. GDU (gelatin digesting units) is the relevant potency measurement.

Is Bromelain safe?

Pineapple allergy is a contraindication. Mild anticoagulant effect — caution with blood thinners. May increase skin absorption of certain drugs topically applied simultaneously.

How does Bromelain work?

Who should take Bromelain?

Those with acute sinusitis, post-injury inflammation, and DOMS, as well as those using NSAIDs who want a natural alternative. Works well alongside curcumin and boswellia.

Related Ingredients

Serrapeptase Curcumin (with Bioperine / Phytosome)Boswellia Serrata Omega-3 (EPA + DHA)

Medical Disclaimer

Ingredient profiles are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take medications. Full disclaimer →