The pineapple is a popular fruit which first grew wild in the West Indies and South America. It was known to the American Indians as “na na”, meaning “fragrance.” The Spanish explorers called it “pina”, since it resembles a pine cone. It is rich in content and health benefits and has a number of uses.
Contents of the Pineapple
The pineapple contains sulfur containing enzymes and a natural healing enzyme called bromelain. According to The George Mateljan Foundation “Bromelain is a complex mixture of substances that can be extracted from the stem and core fruit of the pineapple” which “has a wide variety of health benefits”.
Both the juice and the fruit have digestive enzymes and natural sugars. The pineapple has amino acids and vitamins of the B group: thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. It also has some vitamin A and is rich in vitamin C. It is a rich source of iron and manganese. Finally, it has calcium, potassium, fiber and copper. However, it is low in fat and cholesterol.
Health Benefits of the Pineapple
Due to its composition, the pineapple has many health benefits. According to Sheryl Walters in naturalnews.com, “Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, is the key to pineapple's value”. The bromelain helps to balance the acid-alkaline balance in bodily fluids, which in turn aids digestion. It breaks down and helps in the digestion of protein. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces swelling. Therefore, it is used to alleviate conditions like sinus, arthritis, gout, sore throat and osteoarthritis. Moreover, it reduces mucous in the throat and the risk of allergies.
Antioxidant vitamin C in the pineapple has preventive properties. According to Dr.Bakhru, it alleviates constipation and digestive disorders and boosts immunity. It also prevents macular degeneration which affects vision. Moreover, vitamin C is essential for oral health and contributes to strong gums.
Iron is essential for normal blood circulation and supply of oxygen to the body cells. Thus, it helps to prevent anemia and increases vitality. The manganese, along with vitamin B1, also provides energy. Moreover, manganese is required for strong bones and repair of connective tissue.
In “Health Benefits Of Pineapple”, Irene Eapen says, “just one cup of pineapple provides 73% of the daily recommended amount of manganese. This aids the growth of bones in young people and the strengthening of bones in older people”.
Pineapple prevents clot formation and helps remove plaque from arteries; therefore, it is especially useful for heart patients. Some molecules in the stem prevent cancer.
It acts as a laxative, tonic and rejuvenator. As a cerebral tonic, it improves memory and brain function.
Uses of the Pineapple
The pineapple has had diverse uses since ancient times. The Caribbean Indians drank the fermented juice of the pineapple to relieve body heat in summer. In Europe, it was used for post injury treatment because it reduces swelling and inflammation and used for post-operative therapy after sinus and throat operations to reduce mucous in the throat.
The juice of a ripe pineapple is traditionally used to alleviate diverse symptoms like fever, jaundice, diphtheria, sore throat, intestinal worms and bowel problems and morning sickness. When used as a cold gargle, it increases healing by getting rid of the dead tissue in the throat.
The pineapple is a delicious juicy fruit with many health benefits, largely due to the presence of the enzyme bromelain and anti-oxidant vitamins and minerals. It alleviates inflammation, aids digestion, boosts immunity, prevents blood clots, plaque build-up and macular degeneration and strengthens bones. It is most beneficial when eaten separately between meals.
Sources:
- Bakhru, H.K, Herbs that Heal, Orient Paperbacks, 2008.
- George Mateljan Foundation, Pineapple, whfoods.com
- Irene Eapen, Health Benefits Of Pineapple, living.oneindia.in
- Sheryl Walters, Fresh Pineapple Has Many Benefits, naturalnews.com
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
Nita Mukherjee - I have 25+ years of experience in education and tutoring in English, and 12+ years in writing. With a post graduate degree (B.Ed) in ...
Join the Conversation