Respiratory: Sinusitis (sinus swelling), reactive airway, allergic rhinitis, allergies

Cardiovascular: May help lower blood pressure

Eyes: Might help decrease eye floaters

Gastrointestinal: E. coli, ulcerative colitis, and upset stomach may decrease pain after oral surgery, supplements for some digestive enzyme disorders, helps with gluten sensitivity in some individuals, may help with lactose intolerance, nutrient absorption, possibly IBS, impaired pancreatic function, and indigestion after a meal, Cholera (preferably with antibiotics, whereby it increases absorption-alone, questionable effectiveness), antihelminth (intestinal worms), may help dry mouth, peridontitis, and with inflammation and promotion of healing oral tissues

Genitourinary: Urinary tract infections, kidney stones

Musculoskeletal: Joint swelling, sprains, strains, swelling due to trauma (German Commission E), pain, muscle soreness, osteoarthritis (esp knee and hip after two months), rheumatoid arthritis, knee pain, reduction of inflammation after surgery, post-exercise soreness

Neurologic: Neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis (insufficient evidence)

Skin: Possible antifungal, debridement (removal) of skin after a bad burn, wound healing, diabetic foot ulcers

Immunity: Increases immunity

Cancer: Possible anticancer, anti-metastatic

Other: It decreases blood clot formation, increases availability, and decreases the side effects of antibiotics and anti-edema drugs.

                                                           *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, heavy menstruation/vaginal bleeding, tachycardia (increased heart rate), indigestion, nausea/vomiting/diarrhea.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Stomach ulcers, allergies to various substances/foods: Pineapple, Latex, carrots, fennel, rye, wheat, grass, celery, papaya, bee venom, ragweed, echinacea, daisies, birch, or pollens (esp grass and cypress), subsequent use of blood thinners (including Aspirin), use of Gingko Biloba, certain antibiotics (caution), NSAIDS (caution)

FORMS: Capsules, powder, topical gels

Recommended Brands

Digestive Enzymes:   Doctor’s Best® Digestive Enzymes (also contains papain) 

GNC Super Digestive Enzymes (contains additional enzymes besides bromelain) 

Healthy Origins Digestive Enzymes (contains additional helpful enzymes besides bromelain) NOW® Super Enzymes (contains additional helpful enzymes besides bromelain) — available through my Fullscript link

No current information is available on third‑party recommendations for bromelain specifically for allergies or upper respiratory concerns.

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—such as Fullscript and Life Extensions—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. This helps support the free educational content on this site.

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

According to NIH publications, amounts used in studies vary widely depending on the formulation and purpose. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to Epocrates.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

Bromelain has been used traditionally in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and topical preparations. Traditional uses often relate to digestive support, general wellness, and comfort for minor inflammation.

Fresh pineapple naturally contains bromelain, and papain (found in papaya) has similar properties.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.