Pineapple (Ananas Comosus)

Pineapple is a fruit with many beneficial properties. It has a tough rind of hexagonal shapes, containing a fibrous, juicy flesh often yellow in colour.
Whilst the pineapples are often seen as a symbol of Hawaii, this tropical fruit is believed to have originated from the Brazilian rainforests. In the late 1400s the Spaniards called the fruit "piña" due to it's resemblance to pinecones. Nowadays people often recognise the word from the popular cocktail "piña colada".
Growing pineapples
Pineapples thrive in tropical climates, with temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. The plant usually takes 16 to 24 months to fruit, though it can take longer if grown outside of it's optimal ranges. The plant only produces one fruit (at a time), making it quite an investment time-wise. Thankfully the plant can be grown as an interesting feature in both pots and the garden until it matures.Other than being a rather time-consuming plant, it's relatively easy to grow in tropical and subtropical climates. It requires little care, water or fertiliser. It prefers full sun to part shade, and can survive almost any kind of soil, though it prefers quality, well draining soil. It can easily be regrown from the "head" after harvesting and the plant left behind can grow slips, suckers and ratoons that can be used to grow more pineapples as well. Simply harvest them and let them heal for a week before planting them again.
Pineapples don't require pruning, though you may wish to remove dead or damaged leaves. The plant can grow around 1,5m long/tall.
Health benefits
Pineapples contain a digestive enzyme called bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. The high amounts of vitamin C in the pineapple juice can help keep inflammation levels lowered. This helps when you have an infection, or injury like a sprain or burn. Pineapples also contain manganese, vitamin B6, copper, potassium, iron and more.Pineapples are the only known fruit that contain a source of bromelain, a combination of enzymes that digest protein. This aids in breaking down protein and softening meat for consumption. Inside your body, bromelain makes it easier for you to digest and absorb food.
There have also been studies that consuming pineapple before bed raised the amount of melatonin (sleep hormone) in the body, aiding in a better nights' sleep.
Uses
Pineapple can be consumed in many ways, including though not limited by juiced or fresh.Pineapple juice is a healthy, hydrating drink that's rich in nutrients. Drinking a glass pineapple juice on a regular (/daily) basis can aid you in many ways. This ranges from suppressing inflammation, to boosting immunity, to aiding your digestion, to promote heart health and much more. Pineapple juice is rich in bromelain, vitamins A and C, and several minerals including manganese.
Eating fresh pineapple provides the many health benefits that juice also has. Fresh pineapple contains disease-fighting antioxidants and can also ease symptoms of arthritis. It can also aid in speeding up recovery from strenuous exercise. Eating a few slices a day can help defend your body from harmful free radicals and disease. It can also increase your energy intake and boost metabolism.
Canned pineapple still has many health benefits, even if not quite as good as fresh pineapple. Canned pineapple is often slightly higher in calcium, magnesium and potassium than fresh pineapple. It typically is higher in calories and sugar, containing less vitamins and minerals. More moderate consumption would be recommended.
Warnings
As with anything, too much of a good thing is a bad thing. Try not to consume more than 1,5 cups of juice or (not and!) 1 cup of fresh fruit daily.Unripe pineapple can be toxic to human beings, so try to ensure you only consume ripened pineapples.
Bromelain can also interfere with certain medications, including antibiotics, blood thinners, antidepressants and anticonvulsants.
Allergies
Fresh pineapple can make your mouth tingle or burn. Bromelain breaks down protein, and a lot of our tissues are made of protein. This is a "normal" sensation and doesn't necessarily mean you are allergic. To combat the burning feeling, it may help to consume dairy food alongside it.People with latex allergy are sometimes known to be allergic to pineapple as well. The most common allergic reactions are swelling, hives and/or trouble breathing. If you notice any of these, kindly seek medical help.