Chymotrypsin
Synopsis of chymotrypsin
Chymotrypsin is a proteolytic enzyme, meaning it helps break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. It is produced naturally by the pancreas as an inactive precursor, chymotrypsinogen, and becomes activated in the small intestine during digestion. Classified as a serine protease, chymotrypsin works in conjunction with other digestive enzymes like trypsin to cleave peptide bonds, especially those next to aromatic amino acids such as phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan.
In supplement form, chymotrypsin is typically sourced from bovine pancreas and is used therapeutically rather than nutritionally, with applications far beyond digestive support. One of its key uses is as a systemic enzyme for reducing inflammation, swelling, and pain, particularly following surgery, sports injuries, or trauma. It is also used to help dissolve blood clots, break down scar tissue (fibrin), and reduce edema, especially in soft tissues.
Chymotrypsin is thought to work by modulating inflammatory pathways, breaking down inflammatory mediators, and reducing vascular permeability. Its fibrinolytic and anti-edematous properties have led to its use in treating conditions such as sinusitis, arthritis, prostatitis, and post-operative swelling. It is often combined with trypsin, bromelain, or rutin in enzyme therapy formulas for enhanced effect.
Because it is inactive in the acidic environment of the stomach, chymotrypsin supplements are usually enteric-coated to survive gastric digestion and reach the small intestine or bloodstream for systemic action.
Historical Use
Chymotrypsin, like many enzymes, is a product of modern biochemistry and was not identified or understood until the 20th century. It was first studied in detail in the 1930s and 1940s as part of the emerging field of enzymology. The full structure of chymotrypsin was solved in the 1960s, making it one of the first enzymes to be completely characterized at the molecular level.
Although the purified enzyme was not available in historical medicine, the use of pancreatic tissue extracts dates back to the early 20th century in Europe, where “glandular therapy” was practiced to support organ function. Extracts from the pancreas, containing a blend of digestive and proteolytic enzymes, were sometimes used to treat inflammatory or degenerative conditions before the development of isolated enzyme preparations.
The therapeutic use of chymotrypsin gained momentum in the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in Japan and Europe, where it was applied to reduce post-surgical inflammation and aid in the recovery of injuries. Since then, it has become a common component of systemic enzyme therapy, especially in naturopathic and integrative medicine, for supporting tissue healing, immune modulation, and healthy inflammation response.
While not a traditional herbal remedy, chymotrypsin reflects the evolution of natural medicine into biologically active, enzyme-based interventions, offering a powerful, non-pharmaceutical option for managing inflammation and recovery in both clinical and athletic settings.
Chymotrypsin is used for these health conditions
Arthritis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Scientific)
Bruises (prevention) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Injuries (Scientific)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Sprains (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)
chymotrypsin is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
