Bromelain
Commonly used for
Joint HealthInflammation
Where to Buy
Our experts personally review each product we recommend for quality and cost effectiveness.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
What is it? / Overview
Bromelain's proteases are absorbed orally in active form and exert anti-inflammatory, anti-edematous, and antiplatelet effects -- reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating cell-adhesion molecules, which underlies its traditional use for swelling and inflammatory joint pain, with reasonable human and mechanistic support though trial quality varies.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Bromelain (cysteine-protease complex from pineapple stem), measured in GDU or FIP units -- potency by unit matters more than raw mg
Typical dose studied: ~200-2,000 mg/day (potency-dependent), divided doses
Timing: For anti-inflammatory effect, take on an empty stomach between meals; with meals it acts as a digestive protease instead
Pineapple allergy and perioperative bleeding risk are the two practical flags worth taking seriously -- stop before any scheduled surgery.
How well does it work? / Evidence
? Emerging / limited evidence
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Food Allergies; Bleeding disorder / Coagulopathy; Peptic ulcer disease
Interacts with: Anticoagulants, antiplatelets -- additive bleeding risk (bromelain has antiplatelet/fibrinolytic activity); Amoxicillin, tetracycline -- bromelain may increase serum levels of some antibiotics; Sedatives -- theoretical additive effect
Already taking it? The best-studied systemic enzyme in this batch -- reasonable to continue, but should be stopped before any planned surgery given its antiplatelet/fibrinolytic activity.
Research & references
Kumar V et al. (2023). Bromelain: A Review of Its Mechanisms, Pharmacological Effects and Potential Applications. Food & Function. Alves Nobre T et al. (2025). Bromelain as a Natural Anti-Inflammatory Drug: A Systematic Review. Natural Product Research.
Disclosure: Knozela is a participant in the Amazon Associates affiliate program. Some "Where to buy" links on this page are affiliate links -- if you make a purchase through them, Knozela may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.