Fact Check: Can pineapple cure Asthma?

A post on X claims that pineapple cures Asthma. This claim is FALSE.

Claim

A post on X claims that pineapple can cure Asthma. As per X user Herbalist Henry, Pineapple crown/leaves can cure asthma, stroke, hypertension, and cardiovascular / heart disease. As per the post, pineapple crowns/ leaves are the herbal cure for stroke, hypertension, and cardiovascular/ heart diseases. The user further explained the preparation and dosage, they said to get a Pineapple Crown, slice it into smaller pieces, Sun-dry it, and then shred it or blend it to powder. When in powder form, prepare 2 teaspoon full as tea or ingest into food twice a day. The user further advised that you can blend fresh pineapple Crown to paste and drink like juice, kindly boil for a few minutes before drinking to avoid allergies.

Amongst its various claims, the post-claims that the consumption of pineapple crown/leaves cures Asthma. The post can be accessed here.

Fact Check

This claim is FALSE. Pineapple consumption cannot cure Asthma.

What is Asthma?

According to the WHO, Asthma is achronic lung disease affecting people of all ages. It is caused by inflammation and muscle tightening around the airways, which makes it harder to breathe. Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of asthma. Genetics is a common cause, and individuals with a family history of asthma are more prone to developing the condition. Allergies such as eczema or hay fever also play a role. Lifestyle factors, including poor habits, can contribute to asthma risk, while early life events like low birth weight, premature birth, exposure to tobacco smoke, pollution, and viral lung infections may affect lung development and lead to asthma. Additionally, environmental triggers such as dust mites, mold, pollution, and certain workplace chemicals can increase the likelihood of asthma. Being overweight or obese is another significant risk factor for both children and adults.

Can Asthma be cured?

Asthma cannot be cured but it can be controlled. WHO notes that “Asthma cannot be cured, but there are several treatments available. The most common treatment is to use an inhaler, which delivers medication directly to the lungs.” 

Health Benefits Of Pineapple

Pineapple is a rich source of sugars, organic acids, essential minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber, making it a valuable contributor to human nutrition. It is also loaded with antioxidants like ascorbic acid, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which promote health. The fruit's chemical makeup—comprising sugars, organic acids, minerals, fiber, aromatic compounds, vitamins, amino acids, flavonoids, and carotenoids—varies significantly depending on the variety. Fresh pineapple contains small yet important amounts of vitamin A and flavonoid pigments such as β-carotene, xanthin, lutein, and β-cryptoxanthin, all of which play a role in its antioxidant properties and support eye health. A ripe pineapple provides around 16.2% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C and is also one of the few fruits rich in B-complex vitamins.

Can Pineapple Cure Asthma?

A compound found in pineapple called Bromelain is present in pineapple and has been shown to have therapeutic effects.

In a study by Carolina Varilla et. al., it was discovered that Bromelain is a complex mixture of various thiol-based endopeptidases and other compounds sourced from the pineapple fruit, stem, and root.

A research article published in PLOS ONE revealed that bromelain demonstrated significantly greater therapeutic potential when administered nasally compared to orally. Nasal delivery enhanced the systemic bioavailability of bromelain and effectively inhibited and modulated key factors involved in airway hyperresponsiveness. The study also highlighted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of bromelain through nasal administration at lower doses than oral administration. These findings suggest that the nasal route is a favorable option for using bromelain in asthma management.

A study published in Cellular Immunology found that bromelain reduced the progression of airway disease while altering the balance between CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. This reduction in airway disease outcomes indicates that bromelain may have comparable benefits in treating human asthma and hypersensitivity disorders.

Pineapple contains bromelain, which may enhance systemic bioavailability and more effectively modulate airway hyperresponsiveness compared to oral consumption, but the bromelain content in pineapple is quite low. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, even at low nasal doses, make it a potential option for managing asthma. Some studies also suggest possible benefits for asthma and hypersensitivity disorders. However, while pineapple may aid in asthma management, it is not a cure for the condition.

An article in the Journal of Pharmacy and BioAllied Sciences reported that the bromelain content in the pineapple crown is relatively low, with just 0.26% of dried crude bromelain and a total protein content of 44.10%. The IC50 value, which represents the concentration needed for significant effects, was found to be 3624 μg/mL for crude bromelain or 1590.18 μg/mL of total protein. This suggests that the bromelain level in pineapple is insufficient to have a meaningful impact.

The Health Dialogues Fact Check Team spoke with Dr Kamal Kant Kohli, Chest Specialist, New Delhi. He said, "Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, and it currently has no cure. While pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory properties, this compound may help in managing asthma symptoms, not curing the condition. Moreover, the amount of bromelain in pineapple is quite small, making it insufficient to show any significant effects on asthma. Patients with asthma must consult their doctors for proper diagnosis and treatment. Relying on unproven claims, such as using pineapple to cure asthma, can delay effective treatment and lead to worsened symptoms or complications. Always seek advice from a doctor when managing asthma, as it requires a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to individual needs."

Dr. Mrigakshi Aggarwal, MBBS, DNB - Respiratory Diseases, Diploma in Tuberculosis and Chest Diseases (DTCD), Pulmonologist, Sanjeevan Hospital, Delhi explained, "Pineapple does contain bromelain, an enzyme with known anti-inflammatory properties, but its role is limited to potentially helping manage asthma symptoms, not curing the disease. While bromelain might help reduce inflammation and improve breathing for some, it cannot replace established asthma treatments such as inhalers, corticosteroids, or bronchodilators. These treatments are crucial for controlling asthma symptoms and preventing serious complications. Asthma is a chronic disease of the respiratory system, marked by inflammation and constriction of the airways, and, unfortunately, there is currently no cure for this condition. Asthma patients need to follow proven medical treatments under the advice of doctors to develop a personalized management plan. Relying on unsupported claims, such as using pineapple as a cure, can delay necessary medical intervention and worsen the condition. Asthma is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, and managing it effectively requires a comprehensive approach that includes proper medications and lifestyle changes, under the guidance of a doctor."

Medical Dialogues Final Take 

While pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that may assist in managing asthma symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it is important to note that the amount of bromelain present in pineapple is little and can only aid in symptom management and cannot eliminate the condition. There is no scientific evidence or medical consensus to support the claim that pineapple can cure asthma, as asthma is a chronic condition that currently has no cure. Patients should rely on proven asthma treatments and consult healthcare providers before considering alternative remedies.

Thus, this claim that pineapple can cure Asthma is False.