Bromelain: A Potent Phytomedicine

Abstract

The commercially available protein-digesting enzyme bromelain is derived from the pineapple fruit or stem. Bromelain from fruit and stems are produced in different ways and has varied enzyme compositions. "Bromelain" often refers to the "stem bromelain". Bromelain is a combination of several thiol endopeptidases and others including various protease inhibitors, glucosidase, cellulase, phosphatase, peroxidase, and escharase. Studies conducted in both the lab and on animals show that bromelain has a variety of fibrinolytic, anti-edematous, antithrombotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. The body can absorb bromelain to a significant extent without it ceasing its proteolytic activity or having any negative side effects. Numerous therapeutic advantages of bromelain include wound debridement, improved drug absorption, and the management of sinusitis, bronchitis, angina pectoris, surgical trauma, and thrombophlebitis. Additionally, it treats numerous cardiovascular conditions, diarrhoea, and osteoarthritis. Bromelain also encourages apoptotic cell death and exhibits some anti-cancerous properties. This review compiles the crucial traits, medical and dental uses of bromelain as well as its potential mechanism of action.

Bromelain: a review of its mechanisms, pharmacological effects and potential applications

“…It plays a significant role in the treatment of various skin problems, such as dry skin, acne, and wrinkles. 140 Several investigational studies reported that bromelain acts by selectively digesting the protein layers of dead skin cells, leading to the removal of these layers and promoting the growth of new and younger skin cells. 139 This action is due to the proteolytic activity of bromelain, which breaks down the structural proteins in the epidermis and enhances the removal of dead skin cells.…”

“…It reduces inflammation, redness, and swelling, making it an ideal ingredient for use in products targeted towards sensitive or acne-prone skin. 140 It also helps to stimulate collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness, making it a popular ingredient in anti-aging creams and serums. 141 Bromelain is often used in conjunction with other ingredients, such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or retinol, to enhance its exfoliating and anti-aging effects.…”

“…32 Another recent study investigated the safety of bromelain in healthy human volunteers, and it was reported that a single dose of 2000 mg of bromelain was safe and well-tolerated, with no adverse effects. 140 In terms of potential allergic reactions, a study reported three cases of anaphylaxis in patients who received bromelain for sinusitis, out of which one was a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. 152 However, it was noted that the overall incidence of allergic reactions to bromelain is relatively low.…”

Investigation of Performance Properties of Wool Fabrics Treated with Bromelain from Pineapple Peel Wastes

“…Fruit bromelain (E. C 3.4.22.33) has an isoelectric point of 4.6, a molecular weight of 24.5-32 kDa, an optimum pH range of 3-8, and an optimum temperature range of 37-70°C. The optimum pH and temperature range of fruit bromelain are wider compared to stem bromelain [8, [10][11][12][13]. Thus, fruit bromelain obtained from pineapple peel waste was used in this study.…”

Bromelain‐based endodontic irrigant: preparation, properties, and biocompatibility: An in‐vitro study

“…Bromelain, a crude extract from the pineapple, contains various closely related proteinases. This proteolytic enzyme has demonstrated antioedematous, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic and fibrinolytic properties when observed in both invivo and in-vitro studies [8][9][10][11][12]. Bromelain also offers a wide range of therapeutic benefits including reversible inhibition of platelet aggregation, angina pectoris, bronchitis, sinusitis, surgical traumas, thrombophlebitis, pyelonephritis and enhanced absorption of antibiotics [6].…”