Evidence supporting the use of: Bromelain
For the health condition: Tendonitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic enzymes derived primarily from the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). Its use for tendonitis is based on its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which have been demonstrated in several laboratory and clinical studies, though the direct evidence for tendonitis specifically is limited.

Several studies have shown that bromelain can reduce inflammation and swelling in a variety of conditions, including arthritis and post-surgical recovery. These effects are believed to result from bromelain's ability to modulate pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit the migration of neutrophils to sites of inflammation. Some clinical trials have used bromelain for soft tissue injuries and found reductions in pain and swelling, suggesting a potential benefit for tendonitis, which is characterized by inflammation of the tendon.

However, while there is a plausible mechanism and some indirect clinical evidence, large, high-quality randomized controlled trials specifically investigating bromelain for tendonitis are lacking. Its use in this context is occasionally recommended by practitioners of complementary and integrative medicine, and it is included in some commercial products marketed for tendon and joint health. The overall quality and quantity of evidence supporting bromelain's use for tendonitis is limited, justifying a modest evidence rating of 2 out of 5.

In summary, there is some scientific rationale and indirect evidence for bromelain's use in tendonitis, but more targeted research is needed to establish its efficacy for this specific condition.

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