Could pineapples be a new weapon against COVID-19?

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, researchers have been in the race to find effective solutions to this infectious disease that shook all of our lives.. and pineapples might just be one of the answers! Bromelain is an enzyme extract derived from the stems of pineapples that is used as a dietary supplement to treat patients with pain, inflammation, thrombosis and even cancer.

Recent research has shown scientific evidence that bromelain has immune-boosting and antiviral properties that may be an effective prevention and treatment against COVID-19 infection. This hypothesis was tackled by researchers from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) in Silver Spring in the United States, with promising results.

In vitro experiments have shown that bromelain can attack the SARS-CoV-2 virus (the virus that causes the disease COVID-19 in humans), and can be used against future outbreaks of other coronaviruses around the world. However, experts say that more studies are needed.

More about bromelain

Bromelain is a highly valuable enzyme that offers many health benefits to both humans and animals. Bromelain is a complex mixture of protein digesting enzymes collectively referred to as “bromelain”. Primarily sourced from Queen and Cayenne pineapple varieties, the enzyme complex occurs in both the plant stem and the fruit. The enzyme is not only more abundant in the stem, but the stem is a waste product and hence an ideal source for this enzyme.

Where to get bromelain 

Enzyme Technologies is a 100% South African owned biotechnology company which prides themselves in developing high quality bromelain (pineapple enzyme). As opposed to other bromelain products on the market, Enzyme Technologies' products have a considerably greater therapeutic activity and longer shelf life compared to other competitors, and are currently the only manufacturers of bromelain in South Africa! 

They have 2 bromelain products to choose from:

1. Bromelain Capsules (Strength 4000) - therapeutic strength
2. Bromelain Capsules (Strength 2400) - everyday strength

These concentrated forms of the enzyme offers a high therapeutic benefit at incredibly low doses, suitable for chronic and acute conditions. The Bromelain Capsules offer a variety of health benefits as follows:

• A very good digestive aid and de-wormer, and known to treat stomach ulcers
• Anti-inflammatory (reduces pain and inflammation related to arthritis, surgery and injury)
• Effective antibiotic and antiviral
• Improves immune functioning and speeds up healing processes
• Anti-coagulant (reduces the risk of heart disease and strokes)
• Anti-cancer properties

Another reason why Feelgood Health supports Enzyme Technology is because their products are certified Halaal and Kosher, and their capsules are vegan-friendly, dairy-free, nut-free and gluten-free!