An enzyme from a tropical fruit clears 85% of sinus infections
March 02, 2013
Volume 3 | Issue 17
If you have a sinus infection and it's not getting any better with antibiotics, you could have a fungal sinus infection. In fact, researchers are figuring out that the majority of sinus infections are due to fungus, rather than bacteria. That means your antibiotic won't work. But a simple nutrient might just do the trick.
A recent study looked at the results of several studies on chronic rhinosinusitis. In one of the studies, researchers gave children with acute sinusitis a daily treatment of bromelain. They gave the control group the standard treatment (antibiotics). In every case, those taking the bromelain recovered from their symptoms much faster than those in the control group.
What about adults? Another study looked at 85% of the sinusitis sufferers who took bromelain experienced complete relief from nasal inflammation. But only 40% of those taking a placebo experienced the same level of relief.
Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples. Pineapples, as you may know, grow on or close to the ground. This makes them more susceptible to fungal attacks. And bromelain is one of the enzymes it uses to fight off the attacks. It's similar to resveratrol in grapes.
Researchers believe bromelain inhibits the fatty acids in the fungus that promote inflammation. But if it can completely relieve the symptoms of sinusitis, then it has to do more than just fight inflammation. It has to break down mucus and fight the fungus, which it clearly does.
Most citrus fruits are susceptible to fungus, so bromelain is just one line of defense for these fruits. Grapefruit seed extract is another nutrient that's effective at fighting various forms of infection, including fungal infections. I've used Xlear, a nasal spray that contains grapefruit seed extract, to clear stubborn sinus infections. Since then, I haven't needed bromelain. But I'll definitely try it next time I have a sinus infection. You might want to consider trying it as well.
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The typical dose for bromelain is 500-2,000 mg per day. You can find it at any health food store and online.
Your insider for better health,
Steve Kroening
Steve Kroening is the editor of Nutrient Insider, a twice-a-week email newsletter that brings you the latest healing breakthroughs from the world of nutrition and dietary supplements. For over 20 years, Steve has worked hand-in-hand with some of the nation's top doctors, including Drs. Robert Rowen, Frank Shallenberger, Nan Fuchs, William Campbell Douglass, and best-selling author James Balch. Steve is the author of the book Practical Guide to Home Remedies. As a health journalist, Steve's articles have appeared in countless magazines, blogs, and websites.
Source:
Alternative Medicine Review, Helms S and Miller A. Natural treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis. 2006 11(3): 200.