Pineapple (Bromelain)

Also known as: bromelain, pineapple enzyme, Ananas comosus extract, Bromelain-POS

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Pineapple-derived enzyme with weak evidence for sinusitis relief; not proven for muscle recovery.

What it does

Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme extracted from pineapple stems and fruit. It has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and is used in some countries as a natural...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

200-500 mg daily (varies by application; no strong consensus)

What the Science Says

Bromelain is a protein-digesting enzyme extracted from pineapple stems and fruit. It has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and is used in some countries as a natural remedy for sinus congestion and swelling. One small observational study in children found faster recovery from acute sinusitis compared to standard therapies, though the evidence is preliminary and limited to a non-randomized design.

What It Doesn't Do

Won't reliably reduce post-workout muscle soreness — a clinical trial found it performed no better than placebo. Not a proven substitute for NSAIDs like ibuprofen. Eating pineapple won't deliver therapeutic doses. No strong evidence it aids digestion, reduces joint pain, or fights cancer in humans.

Evidence-Based Benefits

May shorten symptom duration in children with acute sinusitis compared to standard care.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 15796206

Does not reduce delayed onset muscle soreness or strength loss after eccentric exercise.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 300 mg three times daily (studied dose showed no effect)

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 12466693

Absorption & Bioavailability

Moderate — bromelain is absorbed intact through the gut to some degree, which is unusual for enzymes, but the extent of systemic absorption varies and is not well characterized in the provided studies.

Red Flags to Watch For

People with pineapple allergies can have allergic reactions, including serious ones — one case was documented in the sinusitis study
May interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) and certain antibiotics — check with a doctor before use
The sinusitis study was observational and non-randomized, making its findings unreliable for firm conclusions
Many products are dosed inconsistently; GDU (gelatin digesting units) and mg are not interchangeable measures of potency

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Pineapple (Bromelain) do?

Pineapple-derived enzyme with weak evidence for sinusitis relief; not proven for muscle recovery.

What is the effective dose of Pineapple (Bromelain)?

200-500 mg daily (varies by application; no strong consensus)

Is Pineapple (Bromelain) safe?

People with pineapple allergies can have allergic reactions, including serious ones — one case was documented in the sinusitis study

What doesn't Pineapple (Bromelain) do?

Won't reliably reduce post-workout muscle soreness — a clinical trial found it performed no better than placebo.

Research Sources

PMID: 12466693
PMID: 15796206
General knowledge (used conservatively to fill gaps not covered by provided studies)

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25