Bromelain is an enzyme that naturally found in pineapple. This safe and inexpensive natural remedy is used for many different health problems, from bruising to cancer. It is also an effective natural painkiller, according to Earth Clinic readers.

Bromelain also helps break down protein. This makes it helpful for a variety of digestive complaints including heartburn, acid reflux, and colitis.

Bromelain for Inflammation

The most common reason people take bromelain is to reduce inflammation.  Bromelain's anti-inflammatory effect makes it a useful remedy for a multitude of health problems caused by inflammation, including the following conditions:

• asthma
• allergies
• joint pain
• trigger finger
• TMJ
• hives
• arthritis
• sciatica
• carpal tunnel

Effective Natural Painkiller

Billions of dollars are spent each year on pain medications. Unfortunately, pain medications, even over-the-counter pain medications are not without side effects. Frequent or overuse of pain medications can cause serious health problems, including liver damage and kidney damage. Prescription pain medication can become addictive. Overuse of pain medication can even cause death.

Many people are finding that bromelain reduces pain and inflammation as effectively as over-the-counter and prescription medications. Bromelain carries a lower risk of side effects and brings no risk of addiction.

Bromelain is even used post-operatively to reduce pain in some cases instead of prescription pain medications. Its reputation for reducing bruising makes it especially appealing for some types of surgery.

Where Can I Get Bromelain?

A purist will want to get his bromelain straight from the source - the pineapple. You can consume pineapple juice or you can eat pineapple. The highest concentration of bromelain is in the core.

For most people who wish to take bromelain on a regular basis, however, bromelain capsules can be taken.

How to Take Bromelain

For pain and inflammation, bromelain is taken once or twice a day on an empty stomach. For digestive problems, bromelain is taken with meals.

Side Effects of Bromelain

Bromelain is not for everyone. If you are allergic to or sensitive to pineapple, you should avoid bromelain.

Bromelain has also been known to cause hives, nausea, heart palpitations, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Because bromelain has blood-thinning properties, it can increase menstrual bleeding.

If you take blood thinners or have a blood disorder, bromelain may not be appropriate for you.

If you want to take bromelain for pain after surgery, you should check with your surgeon to make sure it is compatible with any other medications you are taking post-surgery and to make sure its blood-thinning properties would not interfere with your healing.

Have you tried bromelain? We would love to hear from you!