Serratiopeptidase

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Other names for serratiopeptidase

Serrapeptase
Serratia E-15 Enzyme
Serratiopeptidase Enzyme

Synopsis of serratiopeptidase

Serratiopeptidase, also known as serrapeptase, is a proteolytic enzyme originally derived from the non-pathogenic Serratia species of bacteria found in the intestines of silkworms. This enzyme enables the silkworm to dissolve its cocoon and emerge, a function that reflects its potent ability to break down non-living tissue, proteins, and inflammatory byproducts. Today, serratiopeptidase is produced through microbial fermentation and used as a systemic enzyme supplement.

Medicinally, serratiopeptidase is primarily used for its anti-inflammatory, anti-edemic, and fibrinolytic properties. It has the ability to degrade protein-based byproducts such as fibrin, scar tissue, mucus, and inflammatory debris, making it popular in managing conditions involving pain, swelling, or tissue injury. It has been studied for use in post-operative recovery, sinusitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, fibrocystic breast disease, and chronic respiratory conditions involving mucus buildup.

Unlike digestive enzymes that act in the gastrointestinal tract, serratiopeptidase is taken on an empty stomach and absorbed systemically into the bloodstream. There, it exerts body-wide effects without disrupting normal tissue. While it’s not universally accepted in allopathic medicine, it has gained a substantial following in integrative and natural health circles, particularly in Europe and Asia. Clinical studies in countries like Japan and India have supported its use in ENT (ear-nose-throat) inflammation and traumatic injuries with relatively few side effects when taken properly.

Historical Use:
Although the enzyme serratiopeptidase itself is a relatively recent discovery (isolated in the 1960s), the concept of using proteolytic enzymes for therapeutic purposes has roots in traditional medicine. Ancient healing systems, particularly in tropical regions, often used enzyme-rich fruits like pineapple (bromelain) and papaya (papain) to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing—demonstrating an intuitive understanding of the power of proteolytic compounds.

The modern history of serratiopeptidase began in Japan, where scientists discovered it while researching the silkworm's ability to dissolve its cocoon. The Japanese quickly adopted the enzyme in clinical medicine, and it gained popularity across Asia and parts of Europe for its ability to reduce swelling and inflammation without the gastrointestinal side effects typical of NSAIDs. It became a standard component in post-surgical recovery protocols and ENT practices, particularly for sinus and throat inflammation.

In recent decades, serratiopeptidase has been embraced by the natural medicine community in the West, often used as an alternative to corticosteroids or synthetic anti-inflammatories. Although not yet FDA-approved as a pharmaceutical in the U.S., it is widely available as a dietary supplement and marketed for inflammation, scarring, and chronic pain.

Serratiopeptidase is used for these health conditions

Adenitis (Scientific)
Anal Fistula or Fissure (Scientific)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Bronchitis (Scientific)
Bruises (healing) (Scientific)
Edema (Scientific)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Injuries (Scientific)
Phlebitis (Scientific)
Sinus Infection (Scientific)
Sprains (Scientific)
Surgery (healing from) (Scientific)
Tendonitis (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)

serratiopeptidase is used to support these body systems

Bronchials (Scientific)
Joints (Scientific)
Lymphatics (Scientific)
Sinuses (Scientific)

Products containing serratiopeptidase

Nature's Sunshine AIVIA Performance Probiotic