Pineapple (Ananas comosus)
Pineapple is native to South America, but it is now grown in many tropical areas of the world including Hawaii. The fruit saved many early sailors from the ravages of scurvy due to its high vitamin C content. The herb is a perennial plant that grows its fruit on the top of the plant. To start a new plant, bury the base of the fruit top in soil and keep it moist.
Key Medicinal Uses
Internally Pineapple has been used for scurvy, constipation and jaundice. It is rich in vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that breaks down protein. Bromelain has been effective in killing internal parasites. This enzyme has also been shown to be promising for ulcerative colitis. The unripe fruit increases appetite and improves the digestion. Some cultures believe it is a uterine tonic. It can settle gas and reduce stomach acid. The juice is diuretic. The leaves have been used to encourage menstruation and to ease menstrual cramping. It has been used to treat toxic shock syndrome as well. The herb breaks down blood clots. Some people have used the herb to treat the pain and inflammation of bursitis.
Externally Pineapple was traditionally used as a poultice to treat wound inflammation and skin injuries. It can be used to clean away the dead tissue from abscesses, burns, ulcers and surgery. It can reduce bruising and pain as well as quicken healing in joints and tendons.
Other Uses Pineapple is a food staple in Brazil and other countries where it grows easily. It is an exotic fruit in other countries. It is used in confections. Bromelain, an enzyme found in the fruit is used to tenderize meat. Some varieties supply embroidery thread from their leaves.
Herbs to Combine/Supplement
Combine pineapple juice with fresh chickweed for a green drink that is very beneficial. Bromelain can be combined with quercetin to increase the efficiency of the quercetin.
Fruit, leaves Both the fruit and the leaf are used medicinally.
If you are sensitive to pineapple, do not take bromelain. Side effects are rare, but include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and unusual menstrual bleeding. Be cautious when eating the fresh fruit. The acidity is high and can cause mouth sores. The acidic juice may cause allergic eczema in people who are sensitive. The rough texture of the fruit and its leaves can cause scratches on the skin which may turn into phytophotodermatitis when exposed to the sun.
Preparation and Dosage
For bromelain, a typical dosage is 400 to 500 mg taken one to three times per day.