Bromelain is a general name given to a family of sulfhydryl-containing, protein digesting (proteolytic) enzymes obtained from Ananas comosus, the pineapple plant. Bromelain's primary component is a sulfhydryl proteolytic fraction. It also contains peroxidase, acid phosphatase, several protease inhibitors and organically bound calcium. Since its introduction in 1957, Bromelain supplements have been used in a variety of conditions including arthritis, digestive dysfunction, allergies, musculoskeletal injuries, immune disorders and wound healing.
Bromelain is commonly used as a digestive aid in those with disorders related to impaired digestive function. It has been found to be active both in the acid environment of the stomach and the alkaline environment of the small intestine.
