Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme complex derived from the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus), has been investigated for its potential to reduce edema, particularly post-surgical or traumatic edema. The scientific rationale for its use is primarily based on its anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic properties. Bromelain is thought to modulate the inflammatory response by reducing the migration of neutrophils to sites of inflammation, altering the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, and breaking down fibrin, which can contribute to tissue swelling.

Several clinical studies, particularly from Europe, have reported that bromelain supplementation can shorten the duration and severity of edema following dental, nasal, and orthopedic surgeries. For example, a number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that bromelain is more effective than placebo and comparable to standard non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing swelling and improving recovery times. However, these studies are often small and may have methodological limitations.

Systematic reviews have concluded that while there is moderate evidence to support bromelain’s effectiveness in reducing acute edema, especially postoperative edema, more high-quality, large-scale studies are needed to confirm these effects and to establish optimal dosing. The use of bromelain for chronic or systemic edema (such as that seen in heart or kidney failure) is far less studied and not well supported. Therefore, bromelain’s use for edema is justified by scientific evidence, but the strength of that evidence is moderate (rated 3/5).

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