The Wonders of Serrapeptase

Serrapeptase has been in use for more than 25 years now. Initially, this enzyme was mostly used in Europe and Asia, however, when the word spread, other regions of the world recognized its benefits and started using it for various illnesses and health disorders. But, the question remains, what exactly is Serrapeptase and what are its benefits for which it has gained enormous popularity?

What is Serrapeptase?

Serrapeptase can easily be rated as the ‘super enzyme’. The enzyme is present in the intestine of silkworms. Today, Serrapeptase is also processed in a laboratory setting to meet its unexpectedly high demand. The theory is that the enzymes extracted from the bacteria present in the intestine of silkworms are capable of dissolving dead tissue without having any harmful effect on the user’s living cells. This is how these enzymes dissolve the cocoon of silkworms which makes them capable of transforming into flying creatures (1).

If we dig deeper, we get to know that Serrapeptase can be found in various other microorganisms that are associated with the bacteria Serratia sp. E-15. Two of the most common microorganisms of this family are Escherichia coli and Salmonella. In the September 2003 edition of ‘Life Extension’, it was mentioned that this enzyme has been in use in Europe and Asia for more than 25 years whereas in the USA it started gaining recognition and was sold as a dietary supplement after 1997.

Classification of Serrapeptase:

Serrapeptase, in clinical terms, is known as serratio peptidase. It is a proteolytic enzyme with the main task of breaking down proteins within the body of the host. This is actually the basic purpose of all proteolytic enzymes (2).

Medicinal Uses of Serrapeptase:

Serrapeptase is basically used to reduce pain and inflammation relating to the following conditions:

Fibrocystic breast disease
Ear infections
Nose infections
Throat infections
Post surgical edema
Carpel tunnel syndrome
Chronic airway disease

Currently, researchers are also analyzing the role of Serrapeptase in the prevention of arterial plaque development.

How it Works?

Serrapeptase suppresses the growth of bradykinin. Bradykinin is a group of compounds which bind to the spot of inflammation. By this action of suppressing these compounds, Serrapeptase is able to reduce inflammation and pain. Also, the injured spot of the human body releases excessive fluids due to the damage of soft tissues. Serrapeptase controls this as well which also results in reduced or no inflammation. Lastly, Serrapeptase reduces or lessens the accumulation of fibrin in the body which, as a result, reduces the chances of blood clots and arterial plaque. Fibrin, a byproduct of proteins, is responsible in the formation of blood clots. By this function, Serrapeptase is capable of reducing the chances of heart related diseases in the human body.

Published Facts:

Seiichi Nakamura with his team of Japanese researchers conducted research on the effects of Serrapeptase particularly on chronic airway disease. After four weeks of study, patients of chronic airway disease who were treated with Serrapeptase showed unexpectedly great recovery and improvement. This was reported in the 8^th September, 2003’s issue of Respirology.

Similarly, another study was published in the ‘International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery’ in March 2008. This study demonstrated the fact that the use of Serrapeptase after dental surgeries can greatly reduce inflammation and pain.

Another publication that serves as evidence to the efficacy of Serrapeptase is the ‘Minerva Cardioangiologica’ of Italy. An Italian team of researchers from the University of Naples published this piece stating that this enzyme can play an important role in overcoming weakness, reducing swelling and reducing nighttime cramps. Patients suffering from inflammatory venous disease can easily take this enzyme and reduce their pain and swelling (2).

Serrapeptase dissolves non-living tissues within the body which includes blood clots. It is also capable of reducing the blood level of neutrophils. These two functions of the enzyme are quite helpful in treating diseases related to respiratory disorders. COPD and emphysema are two of the major diseases that can be treated by this enzyme.

In ‘Natural Therapies for Emphysema and COPD’, author Robert J. Green stated that neutrophils in the immune system are responsible for fighting infections. However, their excessive accumulation at the areas of inflammation can harm the healthy tissues in those areas. The anti-inflammatory elements in Serrapeptase are therefore quite helpful in relieving inflammation and pain brought on by the accumulation of neutrophils. On the other hand, the mucolytic elements in Serrapeptase are helpful in thinning the sputum which reduces the chances of accumulation of thick mucus.

Serrapeptase for Infections Related to Implants:

It is common for the human body to develop infections in the surrounding areas of orthopedic devices that are inserted in the body. In most cases, these infections pose a great threat to the body. Therefore, doctors usually remove the devices if infections are developed. In this context, a study was carried on by a team of Turkish researchers in order to see the effects of Serrapeptase on such infections.

The Research:

The research included drilling holes in the right femurs of 60 rats in total. Poymethylmethacrylate cement was used to fill the cavities. In addition, there was a Kirschner wire attached which was connected to the knee joints as well. After these two things were attached, each rat was injected with staphylococcus epidermidis. 20 of the rats died after 14 days because of the infection. 40 rats that were alive were then separated into two groups:

The first group was treated with antibiotics along with Serrapeptase
The second group was to be treated with antibiotics and saline solution injections

The conclusions of this research were published in June, 2006 in the ‘Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery’. The conclusions were that the group which was treated with Serrapeptase was able to survive because the infection was eliminated.

Serrapeptase for Reducing Postoperative Swelling:

A group of German researchers and doctors conducted a study on Serrapeptase’s abilities to lessen postoperative pain, inflammation and swelling. Patients who had underwent ankle surgeries were selected for this study. There were 66 patients divided into three groups. The first group was treated with Serrapeptase after the operative procedures in order to reduce inflammation. The conclusions of this study were reported in the issue of ‘Fortschritte der Medizin’ in February, 1989. The group that was given Serrapeptase had 50% less swelling than other patients on the third day (3).

Serrapeptase for Heart Health:

Numerous researchers have demonstrated the fact that Serrapeptase is a healthy enzyme for maintaining good heart health. Around 40 studies were conducted and all proved Serrapeptase to be helpful in treating heart related conditions. Among all, the late Dr. Hans A. Nieper of Hanover was the leading researcher. He was well known around the globe for being one of the best integrative physicians. He was also widely known for being among the best cardio doctors in the world.

Dr. Nieper was the first person who showed strong belief in the positive effects of Serrapeptase on heart patients. He spent enough time to conduct studies on this very issue. His main goal was to see whether or not Serrapeptase is capable of overthrowing the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. It was him who called Serrapeptase ‘the miracle enzyme’ after finding out the benefits it has to offer to heart patients. Through his thorough research, Dr. Nieper was able to ascertain that Serrapeptase can play a vital role in reversing atherosclerosis which will result in protecting patients against cardiac strokes and attacks. Atherosclerosis is a condition that is caused by the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. It is one of the major causes of strokes, heart attacks, high blood pressure and similar other cardiac conditions.

He performed several experiments and found out that Serrapeptase can dissolve harmful particles that accumulate and form plaque on the arterial walls. These particles include cellular wastes, fat, fibrin, cholesterol and calcium. Moreover, he also proved that Serrapeptase did all of this without harming the living cells or tissues which line the arterial walls.

What makes his studies even more reliable is the fact that modern science and the recent studies conducted have shown that plaque formation inside the arterial walls is a form of inflammation. In other words, this means that Serrapeptase is capable of fighting against two major causes of heart attacks and related conditions.

According to Dr. Nieper, Serrapeptase is different from other cholesterol reducing drugs because it dissolves the dead tissues and other harmful particles within the arteries without affecting the natural process of cholesterol creation of the body. The human body does require cholesterol to carry on the different functions within the body effectively. Hence, Serrapeptase does not block cholesterol circulation instead it only digests the dead tissues and unclean particles within the arteries. Also, Serrapeptase does not cause any side effects like most drugs.

He also proved through his studies that Serrapeptase works very well in cleaning up debris that can form plaque in the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries are responsible for transporting blood and oxygen to the brain from the heart. Dr. Nieper, in his biography, ‘The Curious Man’ referred to several issues surgeons face while dealing with plaque formation in carotid arteries which eventually narrows these arteries. He narrated that “quite frequently surgeons face difficulties in opening up semi blocked or closed carotid arteries. It is their fear that the debris that will be caused by the surgery can move into other smaller arteries which can eventually result in death by stroke”.

According to Dr. Nieper, Serrapeptase is a safer alternative. The risk such surgeries involve can be avoided with the use of Serrapeptase. He noted that he has used Serrapeptase on patients with severe arterial narrowing and found out good, even life saving, results. These patients were diagnosed with constricted arteries based on ultrasound reports. He prescribed three tablets to be taken each day and most of his patients showed significant improvement in their blood flow.

Furthermore, through such studies, Dr. Nieper was also able to prove that Serrapeptase worked faster than many other drugs to remove arterial plaque. It also works faster than EDTA chelation therapy. EDTA chelation therapy is a process used commonly for removing plaque and for restoring the overall cardiovascular function. Finally, he also proved that Serrapeptase is capable of dissolving blood clots and restoring the health and proper functioning of the veins and arteries (4).

Using Serrapeptase for Heart Diseases:

People suffering from heart diseases can add Serrapeptase to their treatment schedule to improve their results. Here are some tips for doing so based on Dr. Nieper’s findings:

Serrapeptase can be taken everyday. Remember, you should take Serrapeptase on empty stomach only as recommended by most doctors.
People suffering from chronic inflammation can take higher doses.
It is best to take serrapeptase an hour before eating or two hours after eating.

Make sure you talk to your doctor about taking Serrapeptase along with other drugs. Although Serrapeptase has not yet shown any reactions when taken in conjunction with other drugs, it is always best to be on the safe side when it comes to one's health (4).

Serrapeptase for Arthritis:

In 1947, Dr. Arnold Renshaw from Manchester took the initiative of testing Serrapeptase to cure arthritis. In the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases, he reported that he treated 700 patients of fibrositis, rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis and the results were marvelous. He narrated, “This therapy was also found effective for patients with Still’s disease and ankylosing spondylitis”. It did not end here. He also added that 283 patients out of 556 with different types of arthritis showed great recovery and 21 patients showed slight recovery. 264 patients out of 292 of rheumatoid arthritis showed great recovery. Most of the patients started showing recovery after two months of the treatment. Some patients who have had the disease for quite some time took more than 2 months to show recovery.

Arthritis and what causes it?

Arthritis can be classified into two major types: Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is the type in which the joints are inflamed due to a virus or an autoimmune reaction. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the joints become weak.

Rheumatoid vasculitis is a very dangerous condition that can at times be fatal. It is the inflammation of the blood vessels and is regarded as one of the most complicated conditions of RA. The worst of this condition can result in skin ulcers and neuropathies. This condition can also severely affect the brain, the heart and the nerves of the human and can cause heart strokes or heart failure.

According to numerous studies, Serrapeptase works faster on osteoarhtritic pain than rheumatoid arthritis pain. It has been reported that rheumatoid arthritis patients need intensive Serrapeptase treatment. To date, many studies have revealed that the only way to naturally control arthritis is by supplementing systemic enzymes and/or maintaining a strict diet.

Treating Arthritis with Serrapeptase:

Serrapeptase is highly helpful in treating both the forms of arthritis. Normally, patients take heavy medications which are quite dangerous to their overall health. And, not to forget, some of these drugs and medications have steroids in them as well. It has been proven by medical research that most of the conventional anti-inflammatory drugs given for arthritis have only shown short-term effects.

The recent studies related to arthritis have demonstrated that digestive enzymes are much better than most of the anti-inflammatory drugs. Serrapeptase can manage inflammation and pain to a greater extent than most drugs. In addition, it does not have any side effects as well.

Doctors, today, who are prescribing Serrapeptase for arthritis, say that it can provide the following benefits to patients:

Reduces the risk of thromboembolic complications
Reduces the risk of cartilage damage that can occur due to immobility
Decreases the extent of muscle atrophy
Improves mobilization
Reduces pain due to swelling

Serrapeptase capsules are great for cleaning dead tissues. Once this is done, the body’s healing process is activated and dead tissues are replaced with new and healthy tissues (5).

Serrapeptase and Chronic Inflammation:

We all know how dangerous chronic inflammation is. It can lead to several other fatal conditions. Chronic inflammation is a result of glycemic, high glucose and indigestible foods in our diets which eventually causes intolerance. It has been proven through several studies that as the body grows old, it becomes more prone to chronic inflammation. Therefore, it can be said that aging has a direct relation with chronic inflammation. This means that any regimen that keeps our bodies healthy and saves it from aging faster is an indirect treatment of inflammation. There are three major reasons as to why Serrapeptase capsules are an ideal supplement to avoid chronic inflammation. Here are the reasons:

Serrapeptase breaks down insoluble protein by-products of blood coagulation also known as fibrin.
It is ideal for thinning the fluids which surround the area of injury and inflammation. In doing so, the drainage of such fluids gets quicker which makes the tissue repairing process faster.
Finally, it is helpful in reducing pain from inflammation by suppressing the release of amines (substances that speed up the aching process).

Conventional NSAID’s for chronic inflammation are aspirin, naproxen, salicylates and the like. Unlike serrapeptase, these NSAID’s come along with numerous side effects. Most of us don’t know that some headaches and migraines are related to arterial inflammation. In these instances, serrapeptase can relieve the pain in place of using NSAID's.

In the same context, Serrapeptase has also been regarded helpful for trauma relief. Serrapeptase has also proven to be helpful in treating sprained muscles, leg ulcers, torn ligaments, edema and post-operative inflammation.

Serrapeptase and Breast Diseases:

Millions of women every year are affected by diseases related to breast lumps and cysts. Cysts or lumps moving freely within the breast tissue indicate fibrocystic breast diseases. The pain and the condition itself get worse during menstruation. These lumps are usually soft initially and get harder with time. At times, the cysts get filled up with fluid as a result of increased hormone levels. With time, the cysts become surrounded by fibrous tissues and get chronically inflamed.

Some time back, a study was conducted on women with breast tenderness and cysts. The results were quite effective on women who were already taking other medications. They were not told to stop taking their medication instead Serrapeptase was given to them as an adjunct therapy. It reduced their breast swellings, breast firmness, and pain. The conclusion was that Serrapeptase is effective in curing breast cyst inflammation and swelling without any side effects (6).

Serrapeptase and Mucus:

Serrapeptase, as we all know, holds the power to digest and break down dead tissues. It also has the ability to reduce the elasticity and thickness of nasal mucus. Numerous studies have demonstrated that Serrapeptase is an effective way of controlling sinus issues. Also, some studies have shown that patients with chronic bronchitis have found Serrapeptase to be highly beneficial in cutting down the thickness of mucus, reduced recurring coughing and elevated expectoration compared to many of the common treatment methods. Similarly, patients with respiratory issues have also benefited from the usage of Serrapeptase merely because it controls the increased production of mucus and makes the mucus less thick.

Serrapeptase, unlike most medications, does not completely impede the product of mucus. Instead, it works on the elasticity and thickness of the mucus. In this very context, Serrapeptase is also regarded as one of the most powerful remedies for bronchial asthma, pulmonary tuberculosis and emphysema. All of these diseases have one thing in common which is inflammation. By breaking down the dead tissues, Serrapeptase allows the body to restore healthy lung and tissue function.

Moreover, Serrapeptase has also proven to be very helpful with nose, throat and ear infections related to inflammation and mucus. Rhinitis, ear infections and laryngitis are some of the major diseases for which Serrapeptase capsules are being recommended worldwide (6).

However, it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking Serrapeptase conditions related to ear, nose and throat. At times, these conditions have nothing to do with inflammation in which case the use of Serrapeptase won’t do any good to the patient.

Muscle Inflammation and Serrapeptase:

In March 2007, The Myositis Association through its internet publication reported that myositis is a condition in which the patient experiences extreme swelling and inflammation in the muscles. This inflammation and swelling can be a result of an injury, an infection or side effects of medications. It has been reported that this inflammation can become chronic inflammation in some cases. Weakness, muscle aches, fatigue, as well as difficulty standing, reaching upward, climbing stairs, lifting weights and swallowing are all symptoms of myositis.

How does Serrapeptase Help?

It has been clinically shown that serrapeptase has anti-inflammatory properties. Serrapeptase also is known for providing relief from pain as reported by Life Extension. Furthermore, Serrapeptase has the ability to thin fluids which surround the area of injury. By thinning these fluids, Serrapeptase is able to reduce pain and inflammation. Also, Serrapeptase can break down fibrin and other similar dead tissues that can elevate the degree of pain and inflammation.

Other Conditions that Can Be Treated By Serrapeptase:

Apart from the aforementioned conditions, here are some others that can be treated by using Serrapeptase regularly:

Blocked arteries
Cysts
Leg ulcers
Mucus and phlegm
Varicose veins
Pain and inflammation
Migraines caused by inflammation
Crohn’s disease (a.k.a. Colitis)

References:

‘The Miracle Enzyme is Serrapeptase.’ Quality Enzymes. n.p. n.d. Web. 30 April, 2011.
‘What is Serrapeptase?’ Live Strong. n.p. 06^th July, 2010. Web. 30 April, 2011.
‘The Use of Serrapeptase.’ Live Strong. n.p. 29^th July, 2010. Web. 1 May, 2011.
‘Protect Your Heart and Reduce Inflammation with Serrapeptase’. Wellness Watchers MD. n.p. n.d. Web. 2^nd May, 2011.
‘Arthritis/Rheumatoid Arthritis’. Serrapeptase Info. n.p. n.d. Web. 3^rd May, 2011.
‘The History of Serrapeptase’. N.A. n.p. n.d. Web. 4^th May, 2011
‘Serrapeptase for Muscle Inflammation’. Live Strong. n.p. n.d. Web. 4^th May, 2011
‘Serrapeptase from Don Bodenbach at Life Factor Research’. Crohns. n.p. n.d. Web. 5^th May, 2011.
‘How to Use Serrapeptase’. Ehow. n.p. n.d. Web. 5^th May, 2011.