Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme found in the fruit and stem and which has been used to treat inflammation when ingested orally. Classified as a protease, bromelain helps to break down proteins making it useful in cooking as well where it is often added to meat tenderizers. Bromelain is heat sensitive so canned or processed pineapple will not contain the same effect as the fresh fruit.
In medicine, bromelain has been shown to decrease the inflammatory response, making it useful in treating arthritis and other conditions that involve swelling. In fact, it is widely used as an alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In has also demonstrated anti-clotting effects.
Pineapple (bromelain) and Skin
In skin care, you will find pineapple or bromelain in masks, scrubs or lotions. The addition of pineapple delivers an exfoliant action; bromelain helps to break down dead, dry surface skin cells leading to softer and smoother skin. This effect is helpful in dry and/or blemished skin. While it does have skin beneficial effects, little research is available to back up the claims attributed to its use in skin.
