The Power of Bromelain: What is in Pineapple That Stops Coughs?

November 22, 2025 •

4 min read

The notion of using pineapple juice to soothe a cough has circulated for centuries in traditional medicine. Many believe that this tropical fruit contains specific properties that offer relief from nagging coughs and respiratory discomfort. The primary component credited for this effect is an enzyme called bromelain.

Quick Summary

Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain, known for its anti-inflammatory and mucus-thinning properties. It also provides immune-boosting vitamin C, offering potential relief for coughs and sore throats.

Key Points

Bromelain is key: Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties that helps break down mucus and reduce swelling in the respiratory tract.
Immunity boost: The high vitamin C content in pineapple supports the immune system, helping the body fight off the underlying infection that may be causing the cough.
Not a miracle cure: Viral claims exaggerating pineapple's effectiveness over cough syrup are not supported by evidence; the therapeutic effect from eating fresh fruit is typically mild.
Concentration matters: The amount of bromelain in fresh pineapple or juice is significantly lower than in concentrated supplements, which have been used in some clinical studies.
Combine with care: Combining fresh pineapple juice with other soothing ingredients like honey and ginger can create a comforting home remedy, but always be mindful of allergies and medication interactions.

The Power of Bromelain: An Enzyme for Respiratory Relief

Pineapple's reputation as a folk remedy for coughs is largely attributed to its bromelain content. Bromelain is a group of proteolytic enzymes found primarily in the stem and core of the pineapple fruit. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat various inflammatory conditions. When it comes to coughs, bromelain's effects are twofold:

Anti-inflammatory Action: Inflammation in the respiratory tract is a common cause of coughs and sore throats. Bromelain has been shown to reduce inflammatory mediators, which can help alleviate the swelling and irritation that trigger a cough. This can be particularly helpful for conditions like sinusitis or bronchitis, where inflammation is a key factor.
Mucolytic Properties: Bromelain acts as a mucolytic agent, meaning it can help break down and thin mucus. This allows for easier expulsion of phlegm from the lungs and throat, reducing congestion and the associated coughing reflex.

The Supporting Cast: How Other Pineapple Nutrients Help

While bromelain is the star, other nutrients in pineapple work synergistically to support the body during a respiratory illness.

Vitamin C: A single cup of pineapple provides well over 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C is crucial for a healthy immune system, which helps the body fight off infections that cause coughs and colds.
Manganese: This essential mineral, also abundant in pineapple, supports tissue healing and metabolism, contributing to overall recovery.
Hydration: Pineapple juice, in its fresh form, has a high water content. Staying hydrated is critical when you have a cough, as it helps thin mucus and keeps your throat from becoming dry and irritated.

Pineapple vs. Traditional Cough Syrup: Managing Expectations

Viral social media claims suggesting that pineapple juice is exponentially more effective than cough syrup have been widely debunked by fact-checkers. The reality is more nuanced, with significant differences between concentrated, standardized bromelain supplements and the enzyme found in fresh fruit.


Feature	Pineapple Juice (as a remedy)	Cough Syrup (over-the-counter)
Active Ingredient	Bromelain, Vitamin C, water, natural sugars	Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, antihistamines, decongestants
Primary Mechanism	Anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, immune support	Cough suppression (antitussive) or mucus thinning (expectorant)
Efficacy for Cough	Subjective, anecdotal relief; limited high-quality clinical evidence for juice	Clinically proven effects for specific cough types
Bromelain Dosage	Amount varies; often insufficient for a strong therapeutic effect	Not applicable
Side Effects	Mild digestive upset, allergies; generally minimal	Can include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, drug interactions

It's important to remember that while the components of pineapple offer health benefits, they are not a substitute for medical advice or proven medication, especially for persistent or severe coughs.

Practical Ways to Use Pineapple for Cough Relief

There are several ways to incorporate pineapple into your diet when you have a cough. Choosing fresh, raw pineapple is key, as heating or processing can destroy the active bromelain enzyme.

Eat Fresh Pineapple Slices: Simply eating fresh, ripe pineapple can help soothe your throat and provide a dose of beneficial enzymes and vitamin C.
Traditional Cough Mixture: For a more concentrated remedy, try blending fresh pineapple juice with other soothing ingredients. One popular recipe includes:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1 tbsp raw honey
- 1 tsp minced ginger
- A pinch of salt
- (Optional) A pinch of cayenne pepper to help thin mucus
Warm Pineapple Ginger Tea: If a warm drink is more comforting, create a soothing tea. Bring a cup of fresh pineapple juice to a low simmer with a few slices of fresh ginger. Strain and add a spoonful of honey once it's cool enough to drink.

Important Considerations and Warnings

Before relying on pineapple as a cough remedy, keep the following in mind:

Allergies: Individuals with an allergy to pineapple, latex, or related plants (like grass pollen) should avoid consuming it.
Medication Interactions: Bromelain can have antiplatelet effects and may interact with blood-thinning medications. Consult a doctor if you take anticoagulants before using bromelain supplements.
Diabetes: Pineapple juice is high in natural sugars and should be consumed in moderation by individuals managing blood sugar levels.
Acid Reflux: The acidity of pineapple may trigger symptoms in people with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs.

Conclusion

While a glass of fresh pineapple juice is certainly not a miracle cure five times stronger than cough medicine, its nutritional profile does offer supportive benefits for a nagging cough. The anti-inflammatory and mucolytic effects of the enzyme bromelain, combined with the immune-boosting power of Vitamin C, provide a natural and soothing option. However, for persistent or severe respiratory symptoms, a medical professional's guidance is always the best course of action. Consider using fresh pineapple as a complementary remedy, but with an awareness of its limitations and potential interactions.

For more information on bromelain and its general health benefits, you can visit the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

While pineapple juice contains the enzyme bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory and mucus-thinning properties, there is limited scientific evidence to suggest it is a highly effective cough suppressor. It may provide mild relief, but it is not a proven treatment for all types of coughs.

Bromelain is a group of enzymes found in pineapple that reduces inflammation and acts as a mucolytic agent, helping to break down and thin mucus. This can soothe an irritated throat and make it easier to clear congestion.

No, claims that pineapple juice is several times more effective than cough syrup have been proven false. Cough syrups have specific, clinically-tested active ingredients for different cough types, while the effect of pineapple juice is generally mild and anecdotal.

For maximum bromelain and vitamin C benefits, eating fresh, raw pineapple is best, as heating and processing (like in canned juice) can degrade the active enzymes. However, fresh juice can be easier to consume when dealing with a sore throat.

Some people may experience mild side effects like digestive upset. Those with allergies to pineapple or on blood-thinning medication should consult a doctor before consuming large amounts.

You should consult a pediatrician before giving any new remedy to a child, especially for persistent coughs. Note that raw honey, sometimes mixed with pineapple remedies, is not safe for children under one year old due to the risk of botulism.

Pineapple's properties make it potentially most useful for coughs associated with inflammation and excess mucus, such as those from a cold, mild bronchitis, or sinusitis. Its soothing properties can also help with an irritated throat.