Anti-inflammatory and pain relief
Bromelain reduces prostaglandin production, bradykinin activity, and inflammatory cytokines. Multiple RCTs show comparable efficacy to NSAIDs for joint pain, sinusitis, and surgical tissue swelling.
Digestive enzyme support
Bromelain breaks down dietary proteins in the GI tract, improving digestion and reducing protein-related bloating and discomfort. Clinically useful in pancreatic enzyme insufficiency.
Post-exercise recovery
Studies show bromelain reduces DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) markers, swelling, and recovery time after intense exercise, accelerating return to training.
Sinus and respiratory support
European clinical trials show bromelain significantly reduces nasal inflammation, congestion, and mucus production in sinusitis with effects comparable to pharmaceutical decongestants.
Prostaglandin synthesis inhibition
Bromelain inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and thromboxane production, reducing prostaglandin E2 and other pro-inflammatory eicosanoids — similar mechanism to NSAIDs but with fewer GI side effects.
Fibrinolytic activity
Bromelain cleaves fibrinogen and degrades fibrin clots, reducing blood viscosity and platelet aggregation. This fibrinolytic effect supports circulation and reduces edema formation after injury.
Immune cell modulation
Bromelain alters CD44 surface marker expression on T-cells, shifts immune responses from Th2 to Th1 type, and enhances NK cell cytotoxicity and immune surveillance.
RCT comparing bromelain (540 mg/day) to diclofenac (100 mg/day) in 90 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee for 6 weeks.
90 osteoarthritis patients. 6-week intervention.
Bromelain produced equivalent reductions in pain, stiffness, and function scores to diclofenac. Bromelain group had significantly fewer GI side effects.
Systematic review of 10 clinical studies examining bromelain for acute or chronic rhinosinusitis.
Multiple trials in adults and children with sinusitis.
Bromelain significantly reduced nasal inflammation, swelling, and congestion scores. Duration of illness was shortened.