Can Bromelain (Pinapple Enzyme) Help with Headaches and Pain?

Bromelain is a type of enzyme called proteolytic enzyme and is mainly found in the stem and fruit of a pineapple. It is dietary supplement used as a digestive aid but also much more. People use bromelain to fight off pain, kidney stones, headaches, swelling and inflammation of the sinuses, gums, or other parts of the body after injury. Topically bromelain is used for treating burns.

 

Food or supplements that contain bromelain like our our new Infrasooth-B can help relieve headaches as they are a natural antihistamine. Therefore, bromelain is very helpful for migraines, tensions, headaches caused by allergies and sinus headaches. 

Sinus Headaches

Sinus headaches can be caused by allergies. Although, most people think that allergies are itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and runny noses. But, other symptoms include painful throbbing in the forehead and around the eyes and nose. This happens because allergens trigger inflammation in the sinus cavities, which prevents the proper drainage of mucus. This results in pressure caused by the blocked nasal sinuses and leads to head and facial pain.

 

Sinus headache is one of the many types of headaches. It is caused by the inflammation or congestion of the sinus cavities behind your nose, eyes, forehead, and cheeks. Sinus headaches can be felt on either side of the head, or both. It is often described as a deep, dull, and throbbing pain in front of your head. 

 

There are herbal remedies, prescription medication, and over-the-counter treatments available to help treat sinus headaches. Bromelain can help reduce the accumulation of mucus and inflammation. 

Migraines

More than 50% of migraines are misdiagnosed because people confuse it with a sinus headache. If you experience symptoms such as sensitivity to light, dizziness, or nausea, you’re most likely having a migraine.

How Does Bromelain Help?

Bromelain helps reduce sinus pain by reducing or thinning the accumulated mucus and allowing it to drain properly. Studies has shown that people who were taking antibiotics or antihistamine together with bromelain showed rapid reduction of nasal swelling. 

Forms and Doses

Bromelain can be purchased as a capsules for oral intake. 

Doses range from 1200 to 2400 GDU (one capsule is 1200gdu) per serving. They should be taken one to three times a day, always increase the dose gradually.

It is recommended to take bromelain after meals in order to aid digestion. If you want to reduce inflammation, it is recommended to take it on an empty stomach.

Risks

Never exceed the recommended dose.

Taking bromelain supplements are thought to have minimal side effects however starting with a lower dose and gradually building up is always safer. If you’re taking a blood thinner, or are planning or recently had surgery avoid using bromelain as it can affect blood thinning.

Nothing contained in this article should be considered as medical advice and you should always consult your medical doctor or  functional medicine practitioner when embarking upon new nutritional therapies as they will have an idea of all of your medical history.

 

Disclaimer
Information provided by this article and our company is not a substitute for direct, individual medical treatment or advice. It is the responsibility of you and your healthcare providers to make all decisions regarding your health.