What is Serrapeptase?
Enzymes are substances that are naturally present in all living organisms and speed up thousands of chemical reactions inside the body like respiration, digestion, immune function, metabolism and growth. Enzymes work at the cell, tissue and organ level. The serrapeptase enzyme was first found in the digestive tract of silkworms in the bacteria that helps the emerging moth to digest and dissolve its cocoon during metamorphosis.
Serrapeptase Supplements
Rest assured that serrapeptase supplements are not sourced from silkworms, but rather are made via the fermentation of the isolated Serratia marcescens bacteria. Because of its scientifically validated effects, Serrapeptase has safely and effectively been used in systemic enzyme therapy since the 1960s. Since then, it’s been used by natural and alternative practitioners for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immunomodulatory effects, its ability to help speed up recovery after surgery and dissolve excess fibrin build-up in the organs and blood. With this in mind, lets explore the top uses for serrapeptase.
Relieves Pain – Reduces Joint Pain
Joint pain and discomfort are common and usually felt in the hands, feet, hips, knees, or spine. Pain may be constant or it can come and go. Sometimes joints can feel stiff, achy, or sore, and joint pain, in general, can greatly reduce one’s quality of life. Fortunately, serrapeptase can help. Indeed, serrapeptase has been used extensively to address conditions such as: back pain, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis and for conditions generally associated with pain and swelling (inflammation), thanks to its powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. These pain-relieving effects have been studied closely in a range of conditions, from arthritis to injuries and all kinds of surgeries, all of which have confirmed serrapeptase’s effective and rapid effects.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is an integral part of the immune system and a biological response to harmful stimuli, like pathogens, damaged cells, viruses, or toxins and is critical to maintaining health. The basic function of inflammation is to eliminate the initial cause of cell injury, clear out damaged cells and tissues via the inflammatory process and initiate tissue repair. This is acute inflammation.
Problems arise when the inflammatory response remains “on”; thus resulting in chronic (or systemic) inflammation which can damage the body’s cells and tissues and cause a range of chronic degenerative conditions. Serrapeptase’s most impressive and scientifically validated claim to fame is its ability to reduce inflammation, which is why it is often recommended to help reduce symptoms of inflammation (pain, swelling, loss of motion) and promote a healthy inflammatory response. Serrapeptase is also frequently used to help relieve pain and accelerate healing post-surgery.
Clears Mucus
Mucus production increases when the body is trying to defend itself against foreign invaders or when infection strikes. In the lower respiratory tract, excessive mucus production in the bronchi and bronchioles is known as mucus hypersecretion and results in chronic productive cough and/or the constant need to clear the throat. In turn, chronic excessive mucus can narrow the airways, limit airflow, and accelerate a decline in lung function. Serrapeptase is especially beneficial to the respiratory tract thanks to its ability to break up and clear mucus, which is why it has been studied in depth for its potential in a range of chronic lung/respiratory conditions. So impressive are serrapeptases’ anti-inflammatory, fibrinolytic (ability to break down fibrin), and mucolytic (dissolve mucus) effects that it has been studied and shown to be a potent adjuvant treatment in cases of Covid-19 infections.
Safe Alternative to NSAIDs
Serrapeptase activity has been shown to induce the breakdown of fibrin, (preventing blood clots and excessive build-up of scar tissue), and digest dead tissue, cysts and arterial plaque. The enzyme has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory, pain-blocking, and anti-edemic (prevents swelling and fluid retention) activity. Just as impressively, serrapeptase’s anti-inflammatory effects have been shown to be superior to that of other proteolytic enzymes. And, unlike NSAIDs and other drugs, serrapeptase has no inhibitory effects on the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, as well as does not cause gastrointestinal side effects, making it the ideal, effective, and safe alternative to prescription anti-inflammatories and analgesics.
Promotes Digestive Health
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of disorders that cause chronic irritation and inflammation (pain and swelling) in the colon and small intestine – Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis being the principal types. Up to three million North Americans have some form of IBD, and the condition affects all ages and genders, though it most commonly occurs between the ages of 15 and 30.
Because serrapeptase is the strongest biofilm and scar tissue dissolving enzyme found in nature, supplementation is ideal to remove biofilms that form an impenetrable shield and provide a haven for viruses, and harmful bacteria, candida, fungus, and heavy metals in the gut. This is why serrapeptase is regularly recommended by health care professionals to those dealing with gut conditions and liver issues, to help dissolve biofilms and promote optimal digestive/gut health.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your practitioner prior to taking herbs or nutritional supplements.
Author Bio
Roos Jonsin is a Canadian naturopath and researcher dedicated to helping people live healthier lives through education about vitamins, herbs, and nutritional supplements. Roos also consults with suppliers and manufacturers with product development and marketing. National Nutrition is Canada’s leading health & nutritional supplements store, also voted as the Best Health Food Store in Canada by the experts at Canadian Health Food Association.
Email: roos.jonsin.nd@nationalnutrition.ca
Website: https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/
