Bromelain

Bromelain is a complex mixture of cysteine proteases and other bioactive compounds extracted primarily from the stem of Ananas comosus (pineapple). It has been used therapeutically since the 1950s and is approved in Germany as an adjunctive therapy for sinusitis and post-traumatic or post-surgical swelling. Bromelain's anti-inflammatory mechanisms include modulation of prostaglandin synthesis, reduction of bradykinin levels, and direct proteolytic degradation of inflammatory mediators. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing edema, bruising, and pain following dental and orthopedic surgeries. It also exhibits immunomodulatory effects, including stimulation of monocyte cytokine production and modulation of T-cell responses. Bromelain is well absorbed orally despite its high molecular weight, with up to 40% of intact enzyme detectable in serum after oral administration. The enzyme is measured in GDU (gelatin digesting units) or MCU (milk clotting units).