Evidence supporting the use of: Pineapple
For the health condition: Bruises (prevention)

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Synopsis

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

Pineapple is sometimes used to support or treat bruises, particularly due to its content of the enzyme bromelain. Bromelain is a mixture of proteolytic (protein-digesting) enzymes found in the stem and fruit of the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). Several clinical studies have investigated bromelain's effectiveness in reducing inflammation, swelling, and bruising, especially following surgical procedures or trauma. Bromelain is believed to work by modulating inflammatory mediators and enhancing the reabsorption of edema and hematomas, which are key features of bruising.

For example, studies have shown that oral or topical bromelain can help reduce pain, swelling, and bruising after surgery, dental procedures, or injuries. A 2012 review in the journal Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine summarized several trials indicating that bromelain may help reduce the severity and duration of bruising and swelling compared to placebo. However, the evidence is not uniformly strong, with some studies showing minimal or no benefit, and the methodologies are often variable.

Traditionally, pineapple itself is not widely cited as a folk remedy for bruises, but the isolation and use of bromelain as a supplement or in topical formulations have become more common in modern complementary medicine. While bromelain appears generally safe, it should be used with caution in people with allergies or those taking anticoagulant medications due to potential bleeding risk.

In summary, there is moderate scientific evidence supporting the use of bromelain from pineapple for reducing bruising, but more high-quality research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and establish standardized dosing guidelines.

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