Bromelain (Bromelin)

Written by R. Morgan Griffin

Reviewed by Melinda Ratini, DO, MS on January 20, 2021

Bromelain -- also called bromelin -- is an enzyme. It occurs naturally in pineapple. As a supplement, it's often used to ease pain and swelling.

Why do people take bromelain?

Bromelain seems to reduce inflammation, at least in some cases. When taken along with trypsin and rutin, bromelain appears to help with osteoarthritis, relieving pain and improving joint function.

Studies have also found that bromelain might help with knee pain not caused by arthritis, sinus infections (especially when paired with antibiotics), recovery from surgery (like sinus surgery), and colitis. As a cream, it might help relieve rashes and burns.

Researchers have looked at bromelain as a treatment for other conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis and urinary infections. For now, we don't know if it helps.

How much bromelain should you take?

There is no standard dose for bromelain. For swelling, some experts have recommended a range of 80 milligrams to 300 milligrams of extract taken two to three times daily. One or two 200-milligram bromelain tablets are used for knee pain. Ask your health care provider for advice. 

Bromelain might work best when taken without food.

Can you get bromelain naturally from foods?

Bromelain comes from the stem and fruit of the pineapple.