Serrapeptase, or serrato peptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme that can dissolve and break down proteins. Asian and European health care practitioners have been prescribing this enzyme for over 25 years to help dissolve non-living tissue in the body such as blood clots, plaque and inflammatory proteins. Serrapeptase is derived from the a bacteria found in the saliva of silkworms that helps the worm to break down its cocoon. Manufacturers isolate and coat this enzyme to create tablets or capsules that you can take orally. Although this supplement may be an effective treatment for a number of health conditions, it should not be used as a replacement for conventional medicine. Consult with your health care provider prior to taking serrapeptase.
Muscle Inflammation
Muscle inflammation is also known as myositis. According to a March 2007 internet publication from The Myositis Association, it is a condition in which you experience inflammation and swelling in your muscles as the result of injury, exercise, infection or certain medications. In some cases, it can become chronic. Many inflammatory types of myositis may occur in autoimmune conditions--your body's immune system becomes misdirected and attacks your own healthy tissues. Some of the symptoms of myositis include muscle pain or weakness, fatigue, difficulty climbing stairs or standing, or difficulty swallowing or reaching upward.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Serrapeptase has anti-inflammatory properties and may also provide pain relief, according to Life Extension. Serrapeptase can help thin the fluids that accumulate when injury occurs, thereby reducing inflammation and pain. This enzyme can also stimulate fluid drainage, which helps quicken tissue repair. Furthermore, serrapeptase can break down fibrin--a component of blood clot formation--and other non-living tissue that can contribute to inflammation.
Research
A study conducted at the German State Hospital in Ulm researched the effects of serrapeptase in the treatment of subjects with a recent ruptured ligament. Study subjects who took serrapeptase experienced a 50 percent decrease in swelling after 3 days of treatment, compared with no reduced swelling in subjects not taking the enzyme. Furthermore, the serrapeptase group also experienced pain relief more quickly than control subjects; the serrapeptase subjects were completely pain free by day 10 of treatment.
Dosage
The medical experts of Life Extension magazine recommend taking 10 to 30 mg of serrapeptase per day, starting with a small dose and working your way up to a larger dose as necessary. For best results, Life Extension recommends taking this enzyme on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes prior to and 2 hours after eating.
Safety
Elderly persons who use serrapeptase for long periods may develop stomach irritation or gastrointestinal upset, according to Life Extension. You may also be more susceptible to lung infections or pneumonia while using serrapeptase. This may occur because the enzyme can thin mucus secretions which can lead to lung problems, especially if you have a preexisting lung condition. As of 2010, no laws regulate the manufacturing of supplements in the United States.
References
- "Life Extension: Serrapeptase: The Natural Anti-inflammatory;" September 2003
- The Myositis Association: About Myositis
- Not Just Notes: Serrapeptase
