Bromelain has been shown to have potential antiviral properties and can help fight infections. In the case of COVID-19, a study conducted on VeroE6 cells (a cell line commonly used for studying the SARS-CoV-2 virus) found that treatment with bromelain significantly reduced the infection caused by the virus.
Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in pineapple stems, and it has been used for various medicinal purposes for many years. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immune-modulating properties. Additionally, several studies have shown its efficacy against different viruses, including respiratory viruses.
In the study mentioned earlier, researchers specifically looked at the effect of bromelain on SARS-CoV-2 infection. They treated VeroE6 cells with bromelain and then exposed them to the virus. The results showed that bromelain treatment significantly diminished the infection in these cells.
The exact mechanism by which bromelain exerts its antiviral effect is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve several factors. Firstly, bromelain has been shown to have direct antiviral activity by inhibiting viral replication. It can disrupt the viral envelope and prevent the virus from entering host cells. Secondly, bromelain has immunomodulatory properties, meaning it can regulate the immune response and help control inflammation. This can be beneficial in fighting viral infections as excessive inflammation can contribute to disease severity.
It’s important to note that while these findings are promising, further research is needed to fully understand the potential of bromelain as an antiviral against COVID-19. Clinical trials involving human subjects are necessary to determine its efficacy and safety in a real-world setting. However, the initial results from cell culture studies are encouraging and suggest that bromelain or bromelain-rich pineapple stem may have potential as a therapeutic agent against COVID-19.
Bromelain has shown promise in fighting viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2. Its antiviral and immunomodulatory properties make it a potentially valuable tool in the battle against COVID-19. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the optimal dosage and administration methods.