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Ananas
Ananas
Ananas or the famous Pineapple is also known as the “King of Fruits”. The fruit is juicy and is used in various traditional medicines. The major bioactive constituent present in the fruit is bromelain. The fibrous flesh of fruit is yellow in color and has a fruity flavor that balances the taste of sweet and sour. Pineapple has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Ananas helps to control intestinal worms, reduce the risk of arthritis, heart disease, and manage pain after surgery and sport injuries[1-3].
What are the synonyms of Ananas?
Ananas comosus, Pineapple, Anarasa, Nana
What is the source of Ananas?
Plant Based
Benefits of Ananas
Modern Science View
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. Ananas might be beneficial in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Bromelain in Ananas has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It helps reduce inflammation and pain by blocking the pain mediators[4][11].
Ayurvedic View
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is known as Aamavata in Ayurveda. Amavata is a disease in which vitiation of Vata dosha and accumulation of Ama takes place in the joints. Amavāta starts with a weak digestive fire which leads to accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This Ama is carried to different locations through Vata but instead of being absorbed, it gets accumulated in the joints. Ananas has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2-1 cup of Ananas (Pineapple) juice.
2. Mix with jaggery.
3. Have it once or twice a day to reduce the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2-1 cup of Ananas (Pineapple) juice.
2. Mix with jaggery.
3. Have it once or twice a day to reduce the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis.
Modern Science View
Bromelain in Ananas acts as as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent. It reduces the inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane. Ananas also reduces the discomfort associated with sinusitis like difficulty in breathing[4][13].
Modern Science View
Bromelain in Ananas has anticancer, anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory activities. It slows down the progression of cancer by inhibiting tumor cell growth[4][13].
Modern Science View
Bromelain in Ananas acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Ananas inhibits the activity of inflammatory mediators and reduces the symptoms associated with ulcerative colitis[4][13].
Modern Science View
Ananas might be beneficial in managing osteoarthritis. Bromelain in Ananas has anti-inflammatory and analgesic property. Ananas helps to reduce inflammation, pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis[4][11][13].
Ayurvedic View
Ananas helps to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis. According to Ayurveda, osteoarthritis occurs due to an aggravation of Vata dosha and is known as Sandhivata. It causes pain, swelling and affects joint mobility. Ananas has Vata balancing property and gives relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis like pain and swelling in the joints.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2-1 cup of Ananas (Pineapple) juice.
2. Mix with jaggery.
3. Have it once or twice a day to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis
Tips:
1. Take 1/2-1 cup of Ananas (Pineapple) juice.
2. Mix with jaggery.
3. Have it once or twice a day to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis
Ayurvedic View
Urinary tract infection is describe under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze, krichra means painful. Thus, dysuria and painful urination is called as Mutrakcchra. In urinary tract infection, Ananas juice helps to control burning sensation due to its Sita (cold) property. It also helps eliminate toxins from the body.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 - 1 cup of Ananas juice.
2. Mix the same quantity of water.
3. Have it once or twice a day to control the symptoms of UTI.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 - 1 cup of Ananas juice.
2. Mix the same quantity of water.
3. Have it once or twice a day to control the symptoms of UTI.
How effective is Ananas?
Insufficient evidence
Cancer, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Sinusitis, Ulcerative colitis, Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Precautions when using Ananas
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
1. Although Ananas is safe if taken in food amount, Ananas supplements or excessive Ananas intake might cause thinning of blood. This is due to the presence of an enzyme bromelain. So it advisable to take Ananas supplements only after consulting a doctor if you are taking anticoagulants or blood thinners[7].
2. Although it is safe to take Ananas in moderate amounts, it is not advised to take it in excess. Bromelain present in Ananas can lead to asthmatic attack[8][9].
2. Although it is safe to take Ananas in moderate amounts, it is not advised to take it in excess. Bromelain present in Ananas can lead to asthmatic attack[8][9].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Avoid Ananas during breastfeeding as not enough safety information is available[10].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
1. Ananas may increase the side effects of antibiotics. So it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Ananas along with antibiotics[4][10].
2. Ananas may increase the effects of anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. So it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Ananas along with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs[4][10].
2. Ananas may increase the effects of anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs. So it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking Ananas along with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs[4][10].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Ananas may increase the blood sugar level. So it is advisable to monitor the blood glucose level while taking Ananas or its supplements along with anti-diabetic drugs[6].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Avoid Ananas during pregnancy as it may cause abnormal uterine bleeding[5][10].
Side Effects
Modern Science View
1. Stomach upset
2. Diarrhea
3. Swelling in throat
4. Menstrual problems
5. Nausea[4][10].
2. Diarrhea
3. Swelling in throat
4. Menstrual problems
5. Nausea[4][10].
FAQs about Ananas precautions
Recommended Dosage of Ananas
- Ananas Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Ananas Juice - ½ - 1 cup twice day or as per your requirement.
How to use Ananas
1. Ananas Murabba
a. Wash and chop 3 full Ananas into small pieces.
b. Add the chopped Ananas pieces and 2 cups of sugar in a bowl.
c. Mix well till the sugar starts to dissolve.
d. Let it sit for 10-12 hours.
e. Give a stir and transfer to a pan.
f. Bring the mixture to a boil.
g. Stir the mixture from time to time till you get one and a half string consistency.
h. Remove the pan from the flame.
i. Add cinnamon sticks, cardamom and saffron to the mixture.
j. Stir and transfer in a jar to store.
2. Ananas Chutney
a. Cut about 500 grams of Ananas into slightly bigger pieces after removing the core.
b. Grind them coarsely.
c. Transfer the pieces to a pan and add Ananas juice and sugar.
d. Cook on medium heat.
e. Add crushed black peppercorns and continue cooking.
f. Add salt and mix well.
g. Continue to cook till mushy chutney consistency is achieved.
h. Cool and store in airtight containers in a refrigerator.
3. Ananas Powder
a. Cut Ananas into thin slices.
b. Place on a baking tray.
c. Place it in the oven at 225℃ for about 30 minutes.
d. Remove the slices from the oven and put the dried pieces in a grinder or food processor.
e. Remove the Ananas powder from the grinder or food processor and store in airtight container.
a. Wash and chop 3 full Ananas into small pieces.
b. Add the chopped Ananas pieces and 2 cups of sugar in a bowl.
c. Mix well till the sugar starts to dissolve.
d. Let it sit for 10-12 hours.
e. Give a stir and transfer to a pan.
f. Bring the mixture to a boil.
g. Stir the mixture from time to time till you get one and a half string consistency.
h. Remove the pan from the flame.
i. Add cinnamon sticks, cardamom and saffron to the mixture.
j. Stir and transfer in a jar to store.
2. Ananas Chutney
a. Cut about 500 grams of Ananas into slightly bigger pieces after removing the core.
b. Grind them coarsely.
c. Transfer the pieces to a pan and add Ananas juice and sugar.
d. Cook on medium heat.
e. Add crushed black peppercorns and continue cooking.
f. Add salt and mix well.
g. Continue to cook till mushy chutney consistency is achieved.
h. Cool and store in airtight containers in a refrigerator.
3. Ananas Powder
a. Cut Ananas into thin slices.
b. Place on a baking tray.
c. Place it in the oven at 225℃ for about 30 minutes.
d. Remove the slices from the oven and put the dried pieces in a grinder or food processor.
e. Remove the Ananas powder from the grinder or food processor and store in airtight container.
Benefits of Ananas
Modern Science View
Bromelain is an enzyme present in Ananas. It has anti-inflammatory property and helps reduce pain associated with burn[4][11][12].
Ayurvedic View
Ananas helps to heal a burning wound when applied to the affected area. It heals the damaged tissue due to its Ropan (healing) property. It also gives a cooling effect on the burning area because of its Sita (cold) nature.
Tips:
1. Take the pulp of Ananas.
2. Mix honey with it.
3. Apply to the affected area and leave it for 2-4 hours.
4. Wash it off with cold water.
Tips:
1. Take the pulp of Ananas.
2. Mix honey with it.
3. Apply to the affected area and leave it for 2-4 hours.
4. Wash it off with cold water.
How effective is Ananas?
Insufficient evidence
Burns
Precautions when using Ananas
Allergy
Modern Science View
Appearance of red rash on the body may be observed after consuming Ananas in some people[5][10].
Recommended Dosage of Ananas
- Ananas Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
- Ananas Powder - ½ -1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Ananas
1. Ananas face mask for skin tightening
a. Chop the Ananas into small chunks and put in a blender.
b. Add 1 egg white to it.
c. Add 1 teaspoon of natural honey.
d. Blend them together to make a smooth paste.
e. Apply the paste all over your face and neck and let it dry.
f. Wash it off with cold water.
g. Pat dry your face with a towel.
h. Apply a light moisturizer on your face for glowing firm skin.
2. Ananas hair mask
a. Chop ½ - 1 Ananas (depending on the length of your hair).
b. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
c. Add 1 tablespoon almond oil.
d. Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt.
e. Blend them together to get a smooth paste.
f. Divide your hair into a few sections.
g. Apply on hair roots and through the length of your hair section-wise.
h. Massage lightly.
i. Cover with a shower cap and leave for 15-30 minutes.
j. Rinse hair thoroughly with warm water.
k. Wash with a mild shampoo.
a. Chop the Ananas into small chunks and put in a blender.
b. Add 1 egg white to it.
c. Add 1 teaspoon of natural honey.
d. Blend them together to make a smooth paste.
e. Apply the paste all over your face and neck and let it dry.
f. Wash it off with cold water.
g. Pat dry your face with a towel.
h. Apply a light moisturizer on your face for glowing firm skin.
2. Ananas hair mask
a. Chop ½ - 1 Ananas (depending on the length of your hair).
b. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
c. Add 1 tablespoon almond oil.
d. Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt.
e. Blend them together to get a smooth paste.
f. Divide your hair into a few sections.
g. Apply on hair roots and through the length of your hair section-wise.
h. Massage lightly.
i. Cover with a shower cap and leave for 15-30 minutes.
j. Rinse hair thoroughly with warm water.
k. Wash with a mild shampoo.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
The shelf life of Ananas is dependent on the time it was picked and the way it is stored. Full uncut Ananas can last upto 3-5 days if stored in refrigerator. Sliced Ananas stored in an airtight container in a refrigerator must be consumed within 6 days. Frozen or canned Ananas can last upto 6 months.
Modern Science View
A whole Ananas weighs approximately 900 grams. On an average, it contains about 450 calories.
Modern Science View
The leaves of a Ananas that has gone bad appear brown and breaks easily. The body of the Ananas would also appear brownish and dried and its bottom will be soft and wet. As the Ananas goes bad, it starts smelling like vinegar due to the fermentation of sugars. The inside will turn dark brown and the vinegary taste will accentuate.
Modern Science View
As the Ananas ages, brown spots starts to appear on its outer surface. It is safe to eat Ananas till the outer surface is firm. Once the brown spots leave an indentation on the surface when pressed, it indicates the Ananas has expired.
Modern Science View
Fresh Ananas has lower sugar content as compared to canned or frozen Ananas. Half a cup of canned Ananas contains about 15 grams of carbohydrate. Even though Ananas is a rich source of carbohydrates, it also contains fibre and other essential nutrients. This property makes it useful in managing Diabetes.
Ayurvedic View
Ananas is safe if taken in moderate amount if you are diabetic. But it may cause a drop in blood sugar. This is because of its Guru (heavy) property. So Ananas should be eaten with other foods to help digest it well and prevent a rapid drop in blood sugar.
Ayurvedic View
No, if someone has asthma he can eat Ananas in moderate as it increases immunity. Although it has Madhur (sweet) and Amla (sour) taste, it dilutes the mucus and help spit it out.
Modern Science View
Consuming small quantities of Ananas on an empty stomach detoxifies the body. Although not enough evidence is available, eating too much Ananas on an empty stomach may cause allergic reactions, diarrhoea and vomiting.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Ananas can be eaten before food as it helps to improve digestive fire. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) property. But if it is taken in large amounts it can cause stomach upset or even diarrhea. due to its Rechana (laxative) nature.
Modern Science View
Yes, Ananas has cardioprotective activity and is good for the heart. Bromelain in Ananas has fibrinolytic activity that inhibits platelet aggregation. Ananas might breakdown the cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels and thus manage the symptoms of hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Ananas also improves the blood flow and prevents the severity of chest pain[11][13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Ananas has a role in diarrhea. Bromelain in Ananas inhibits the growth of intestinal pathogens. It also prevents the attachment of the bacteria to the intestinal mucosa[11].
Ayurvedic View
Eating Ananas generally doesn’t cause diarrhea but fresh Juice of unripe Ananas can cause diarrhea because of its Virechak (purgative) nature.
Modern Science View
Yes, Ananas is good for the skin. Ananas is a rich source of vitamin A and C. Vitamin A and C have good antioxidant property and protects the skin against the damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C also helps in the synthesis of collagen which protects the skin[14].
Modern Science View
Although not enough scientific evidence is available, Ananas can be useful in reducing belly fat. This is due to the presence of an enzyme Bromelain and fibres. These help in reducing appetite and promote fat excretion. Ananas also has anti-inflammatory property that reduces inflammation resulting in an slimmer look.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Ananas helps to reduce belly fat. Taking Ananas juice during breakfast increases the metabolism and regulates craving for foods. This is due to its Guru (heavy) property. It also helps correct the digestive disorders and detoxify the liver.
References
- Toyin YM, Olakunle AT, Adewunmi AM. 15 – Toxicity and beneficial effects of some african plants on the reproductive system.Toxicological Survey of African Medicinal Plants.2014:445–492.
- Hassan A, Othman Z, Siriphanich J.10 – Pineapple (Ananas comosus L. Merr.).Postharvest Biology and Technology of Tropical and Subtropical Fruits.2011: 194–217.
- Lawal D.Medicinal, pharmacological and phytochemical potentials of Annona comosus linn. peel - a review.Bayero Journal of Pure and Applied Sciences. 2013;6(1):101-104.
- WebMD.Bromelain: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Balkrishna A.Secrets of Indian herbs for good health.1st ed.Divya prakashan.2008.
- Guevarra MT, Panlasigui LN.Blood glucose responses of diabetes mellitus type II patients to some local fruits.Asia Pac J Clin Nutr.2000;9(4):303-308.
- SabahelKhier KM, Hussain AS, Ishag KEA.Effect of maturity stage on protein fractionation, in vitro protein digestibility and anti-nutrition factors in pineapple (Ananas comosis) fruit grown in Southern Sudan.African J Food Sci.2011;4(8):550-552.
- Baur X, Fruhmann G.Allergic reactions, including asthma, to the pineapple protease bromelain following occupational exposure.Clin Exp Allergy.1979;9(5):443-450.
- Malo JL, Chan-Yeung M.Agents causing occupational asthma.J Allergy Clin Immunol.2009;18(5):445-450.
- Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard:Herb and Supplement Guide, An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.