🔅 BROMELIAN

– Bromelain is a group of enzymes that are extracted from the stem and fruit of the pineapple plant. Bromelain has various properties and uses, such as:

i). Digestive aid: Bromelain helps break down proteins in food and may improve digestion and absorption of nutrients. Bromelain may also reduce inflammation and swelling in the digestive tract, and may help treat conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease.

ii). Anti-inflammatory and analgesic: Bromelain reduces the production of substances that cause pain and inflammation in the body, such as prostaglandins and cytokines. Bromelain may help relieve pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions.

iii). Bromelain may also speed up the healing of bruises, sprains, and wounds.

iv). Anticoagulant and antiplatelet: Bromelain prevents blood platelets from sticking together and forming clots, which may reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases. Bromelain may also improve blood circulation and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

v). Antitumor and immunomodulatory: Bromelain may have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis (cell death) in tumor cells, inhibiting tumor growth and invasion, and enhancing the immune system's ability to fight cancer. Bromelain may also modulate the immune system's response to allergens, infections, and autoimmune diseases.

vi). Debridement and wound healing: Bromelain can be applied to the skin as a cream or gel to remove dead tissue (debridement) from burns, ulcers, and other wounds. Bromelain may also promote wound healing by reducing inflammation, infection, and scarring.

Bromelain's effects on human health may vary depending on the dose, form, and source of the enzyme. Bromelain may also have different effects on men and women, such as:

1). Menstrual disorders: Bromelain may help reduce menstrual pain and bleeding in women by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in uterine contractions and inflammation. Bromelain may also help regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent menstrual irregularities.

2). Fertility and pregnancy: Bromelain may improve fertility in both men and women by enhancing sperm quality and motility, and by increasing the implantation rate of fertilized eggs in the uterus. Bromelain may also prevent miscarriage and preterm labor by reducing inflammation and clotting in the placenta. However, bromelain should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as its safety and effects on the fetus and infant are not well established.

3). Prostate health: Bromelain may help prevent and treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition in which the prostate gland enlarges and causes urinary problems in men. Bromelain may reduce the size and inflammation of the prostate, and improve urinary flow and symptoms. Bromelain may also have a protective effect against prostate cancer by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells.

– Professional medical recommendations on the use of bromelain may vary depending on the condition, severity, and individual factors of the patient. Bromelain is generally considered safe and well tolerated, but it may cause some side effects, such as:

i). Allergic reactions: Bromelain may cause allergic reactions in some people, especially those who are allergic to pineapple, latex, wheat, celery, papain, carrot, fennel, cypress pollen, grass pollen, or other plants. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, breathing difficulty, and anaphylaxis.

ii). Gastrointestinal disturbances: Bromelain may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and heartburn in some people, especially when taken in high doses or on an empty stomach. Bromelain may also increase the acidity of the stomach and aggravate ulcers or gastritis.

iii). Bleeding and bruising: Bromelain may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising in some people, especially those who have bleeding disorders, take blood thinners, or have surgery. Bromelain may also interact with some medications that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, and ibuprofen.

– Therefore, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using bromelain, especially if you have any medical conditions, allergies, or take any medications. Bromelain should be used with caution in children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and elderly people. Bromelain should also be stopped at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.

Effects of rubbing pineapple on your face:

– Rubbing pineapple on one's face may have some benefits for the skin, such as:

i). Exfoliating the skin: Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that can break down the dead skin cells and dirt on the surface of the skin. This can help unclog the pores, smooth the skin texture, and brighten the complexion.

ii). Hydrating the skin: Pineapple is rich in water and vitamin C, which can help moisturize the skin and prevent dryness and flaking. Vitamin C also helps boost collagen production, which can improve the skin's elasticity and firmness.

iii). Fighting acne and inflammation: Pineapple has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce redness, swelling, and infection caused by acne. Bromelain can also help regulate the oil production on the skin and prevent clogged pores.

iv). Fading scars and spots: Pineapple can help lighten the appearance of scars, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation on the skin, due to its natural bleaching effect. Pineapple also contains antioxidants that can protect the skin from sun damage and oxidative stress.

– However, rubbing pineapple on one's face may also have some negative effects, especially if done too often or for too long. Some of the possible drawbacks are:

i). Irritating the skin: Pineapple is acidic and can cause skin irritation, burning, itching, or stinging, especially for people with sensitive skin or skin conditions like eczema or rosacea. Pineapple can also make the skin more sensitive to the sun, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

ii). Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to pineapple or its components, such as bromelain, and experience allergic reactions when applying pineapple to their skin. Symptoms may include rash, hives, swelling, breathing difficulty, or anaphylaxis. People who are allergic to latex, wheat, celery, papain, carrot, fennel, cypress pollen, grass pollen, or other plants may be more likely to be allergic to pineapple.

iii). Interfering with medications: Pineapple may interact with some medications that affect blood clotting, such as aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, and ibuprofen. Pineapple may increase the risk of bleeding and bruising when used with these medications. Therefore, people who take these medications should consult their doctor before using pineapple on their skin.

– Therefore, rubbing pineapple on one's face may not be recommended for everyone, and should be done with caution and moderation. It is advisable to do a patch test on a small area of the skin before applying pineapple to the whole face, and to rinse it off after a few minutes. It is also important to use sunscreen and moisturizer after using pineapple on the skin, to prevent sun damage and dryness. Alternatively, one can use skin care products that contain pineapple extracts or bromelain, which may be gentler and safer for the skin.

How do I know if I'm allergic to pineapple?

– You may be allergic to pineapple if you experience any of the following symptoms after eating or touching the fruit or drinking its juice:

• Intense itching and hives on your skin.

• Swelling of your face, tongue, throat, or lips.

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or coughing.

• Burning, soreness, or irritation in your mouth or lips.

• Stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.

• Metallic taste in your mouth.

• Dizziness, fainting, or low blood pressure.

• Anaphylactic shock, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

– These symptoms may occur immediately or several hours after exposure to pineapple. The severity of the reaction may vary depending on the amount and form of pineapple you consume, and your individual sensitivity. If you suspect you have a pineapple allergy, you should avoid the fruit and its products, and consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

# SUMMATIVELY

• Bromelain is a natural and versatile enzyme that has many potential benefits for human health. However, it is important to use it properly and safely, and to seek professional medical advice before using it.