Bromelain is one of several compounds known as proteolytic enzymes, all of which aid in the digestion of protein. Bromelain supplements are now included in some of the natural hair care products. The plant enzyme bromelain has yet to get the hair care product recommendations. But there is more to bromelain than hair care.

The natural plant enzyme bromelain obtained from the pineapple is known to provide a number of health benefits as discussed below.

Bromelain Research
By 1891, researchers identified the proteolytic enzyme bromelain, which they found in the fleshy part of the fruit. This enzyme was discovered to break down protein, and as such, is still used to day as a natural meat tenderizer and digestive aid. By 1957, bromelain was widely recognized and research also began into such areas as muscle and tissue inflammation, burn recovery, infection, and even sinus problems.

The most recognized use for bromelain is as a digestive aid. This enzyme is commonly used in cases in which an individual’s own digestive enzymes are deficient, frequently resulting from pancreatic disorders. In such cases, bromelain supplements can relieve gastrointestinal symptoms including bloating, gas, pain and cramps from indigestion and diarrhea. Studies show that proteolytic enzymes like bromelain may also indirectly relive food allergies thought to occur from a condition called leaky gut, in which whole protein molecules from foods leak into the blood causing an allergic or immune response. Bromelain’s digestive properties are particularly enhanced when used along side other enzymes such as amylase that digests starch and lipase, necessary for fat digestion. Some laboratory studies suggest that bromelain may also be useful for reducing bad intestinal bacteria.

Bromelain is so effective at digesting protein that workers who frequently cut the fruit often lose their fingerprints to the active properties of the enzyme. As well as this fruit’s amazing digestive qualities, it is also an excellent source of vitamins A and vitamin C, a benefit the Spaniards took advantage of on their many extended trips out to sea.

The fibrous nature of pineapple however, is also known to relieve constipation, as well ancient cultures frequently used pineapples to cure jaundice and kill intestinal parasites. Ripe pineapple juice is well known as a remedy to induce menstruation and relieve painful periods. Bromelain’s photolytic properties also make this enzyme a natural blood thinner. The digestive substance in the enzyme breaks down the blood clotting protein called fibrin, which inhibits circulation and prevents tissues from effectively draining.

European studies have consistently shown that bromelain is also an excellent treatment for those recovering from sports injuries and in tissue repair necessary after surgery.

Evidence suggests that some supplemental enzymes in particular can be absorbed directly into the circulatory system in their active form where they then exhibit anti-inflammatory and pain relieving actions.

Bromelain has proven especially effective when applied directly to the skin to remove dead tissue resulting from severe burns that have reached all skin layers. These third-degree burns as they are known, are extremely susceptible to infection and swelling. The digestive properties of the bromelain cleanse the areas and remove the excess dead tissue and as well, its anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce the pain caused by swelling. Countries such as Japan and Taiwan and in the state of Hawaii where pineapples are abundant, widely recognize bromelain as a remedy to cleanse wounds. Another interesting use for bromelain may be as a cough suppressant and nasal decongestant.

Commercial Bromelain: Dosage
Commercial bromelain products for treating number of human and animal disorders are now available in the market.Health professionals suggest that while choosing a commercial a bromelain product, choose the enzyme supplement that uses a variety of other enzymes. It is best to blend enzymes with activity units at various pH levels to assure maximum effectiveness.

According to experts, in most cases, bromelain should only be taken for between 8 and10 days. There are two recognized drug reactions with bromelain. This enzyme is said to enhance antibiotics. One study shows that amoxicillin blood levels are increased when combined with bromelain. Additional studies show that the antibiotic tetracycline is better absorbed when used in conjunction with bromelain, however researchers say that further investigation is still necessary since studies in this area are conflicting.

If you are taking the herbs gingko, ginger, vitamin C or garlic or medications such as aspirin or warfarin, a common blood thinner, bromelain could potentially increase the risk of bleeding. It is therefore best to avoid this enzyme. In any case, if you are taking any type of prescription medication, it is always best to speak with a health professional prior to adding any herbs or supplements since interactions are often common.

There are many nutritional herbal supplements which are good for hair care. Find out natural hair care products and secrets and some fast hair growth tips to take care of your hair the natural way.