ANANAS COMOSUS: THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR YOUR HORSE’S JOINTS

Ananas comosus, the Latin name for pineapple, belongs to the botanical family Bromeliaceae and is a plant that grows wild in Central and South America, in typically tropical and subtropical climates. Although its main use is undoubtedly food, pineapple has numerous herbal medicinal properties due to its bromelain content, which is mainly responsible for its positive effects on the osteoarticular system.

Several studies show that bromelain is able to interfere with the synthesis of typical pro-inflammatory molecules, thus having an antiphlogistic action, which is essential where chronic degenerative diseases or traumatic joint events occur. Bromelain has also been shown to counteract joint swelling, another symptom often found in those with limb problems. On the whole, the anti-inflammatory and anti-oedemigenous action exerted by bromelain helps to limit the sensation of pain, adding pain relief to pineapple’s numerous properties. 

Last but not least, bromelain has a blood-thinning action and inhibits the formation of fibrin, thus preserving optimal circulation even after trauma or bruising.

Validating its efficacy in the area of joint health, the use of bromelain in arthritis sufferers has proven effective in counteracting the joint stiffness typical of this chronic degenerative disease. Again, in an experimental model of Achilles tendon rupture, bromelain administration was effective in stimulating tenocyte proliferation by a statistically significant extent compared to the control group, with a relative increase in collagen fibre deposition. This is an important result, as tendon structures typically have low blood circulation, resulting in rather long healing times. In fact, it has been suggested that bromelain is able to increase the permeability of blood vessel walls to oxygen and nutrients, thus aiding the healing process.

Pineapple is very often found in supplements together with other essential allies with which it acts synergistically, such as MSM (Methyl Sulphonyl Methane) for the nutraceutical group and turmeric for the herbal medicinal group.

In conclusion, pineapples prove to be a plant with exceptional qualities within the area of plant and herbal therapy. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, anti-oedemigenous and pain-relieving properties, it is perfect for protecting horses’ osteoarticular well-being.