Inflammation/Mobility/Immunity

Bromelain

Proteolytic enzyme from pineapple stems that may reduce post-operative swelling and sinus inflammation, and help with osteoarthritis pain.

Bromelain

Proteolytic enzyme from pineapple stems that may reduce post-operative swelling and sinus inflammation, and help with osteoarthritis pain.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

Proven Benefits

01Reduces post-operative swelling

02Improves osteoarthritis pain

03Reduces sinusitis symptoms

04May lower inflammation

05May aid protein digestion

06May reduce allergy symptoms

Chemical Forms

Recommended

Standardized bromelain extract (GDU- or MCU-labeled)
Enteric-coated bromelain (for systemic absorption)

Avoid

Unstandardized pineapple powder (unknown enzyme activity)
Heat-treated bromelain (enzymes denatured)

Expert Note

Bromelain potency is measured in GDU or MCU, so mg alone is not enough. Clinical studies typically use standardized extracts, and enteric coating may help preserve activity through stomach acid when systemic anti-inflammatory effects are the goal; plain pineapple powder or heat-damaged products usually have far less active enzyme.

Protocol

Amount

500-1000 mg

Frequency

2-3 times daily

When

On an empty stomach for anti-inflammatory effects; with meals if used as a digestive aid.

Condition-Based Dosing

Post-operative swelling (dental/nasal surgery)

500-1000 mg 2-3 times daily for 5-7 days after surgery— Use only with surgeon approval; stop before surgery because of bleeding risk.

Osteoarthritis of the knee

500-1000 mg 2-3 times daily for 4-12 weeks— Effects on pain and function are modest; consider as an adjunct to standard care.

Chronic sinusitis

500 mg 3-4 times daily— Often studied as an adjunct to conventional therapy; symptom improvement may take 2-4 weeks.

Digestive enzyme support with meals

500 mg with meals— Evidence is weaker than for anti-inflammatory uses; stop if it causes GI upset or no clear benefit after 2-4 weeks.

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit

No official UL established; 3,000 mg/day of standardized extract is the highest commonly studied oral dose.

Cycling

Safe for continuous use

Contraindications

Warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, or other anticoagulants — increased bleeding risk

Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia) — increased bruising and bleeding risk

Pineapple allergy — possible allergic reaction or cross-reactivity

Pregnancy — insufficient safety data; avoid high doses unless prescribed

Upcoming surgery — discontinue 2 weeks before due to bleeding risk

Synergies

Quercetin

Quercetin and bromelain are often combined for sinusitis and allergy support; bromelain may enhance quercetin absorption and both can modestly modulate inflammation.

Curcumin

Both have anti-inflammatory mechanisms; combined use may offer complementary support for osteoarthritis and post-operative recovery, though evidence for the specific pairing is limited.

Avoid Combining With

✕Anticoagulants or antiplatelets like warfarin, aspirin, or clopidogrel (additive bleeding risk — consult clinician)
✕Taking doses with meals when systemic effects are desired (may reduce absorption; take on an empty stomach)

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