Inflammation/Immunity/Women

Serrapeptase

Proteolytic enzyme used to reduce post-operative swelling and ease chronic sinusitis symptoms, with limited but promising anti-inflammatory evidence.

Serrapeptase

Proteolytic enzyme used to reduce post-operative swelling and ease chronic sinusitis symptoms, with limited but promising anti-inflammatory evidence.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

Overview

Forms

Safety

Stack

Quick Take

Niche anti-inflammatory enzyme worth considering for sinus or post-surgical swelling, but evidence is limited and mixed.

Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme originally isolated from the bacterium Serratia marcescens. It has been used in Japan and Europe for decades to manage inflammation, edema, and mucus buildup. The enzyme is thought to break down fibrin and other proteins involved in inflammatory exudates, potentially improving fluid drainage and reducing swelling. Clinical studies suggest it may help reduce post-operative swelling, alleviate symptoms of chronic sinusitis, and ease pain from dental inflammation. Some limited research also explored its use for fibrocystic breast disease. It is generally consi

Proven Benefits

Reduces post-operative swelling

Eases chronic sinusitis symptoms

Reduces dental pain and swelling

May reduce thick respiratory mucus

May ease fibrocystic breast pain

Protocol

Amount

10-30 mg

Frequency

Once or twice daily, 30 minutes before meals

When

On an empty stomach, 30 minutes before meals or 2 hours after eating, to avoid proteolytic degradation by food proteins.

Onset Time

1-2 weeks for mucus or sinus symptoms; several days for post-surgical swelling.

Who Should Consider

People recovering from minor surgery

Adults with chronic sinusitis

Women with fibrocystic breast pain

Those seeking NSAID alternatives

How It Works

Serrapeptase is absorbed from the intestine into the bloodstream, where it acts as a protease to degrade non-living proteins such as fibrin, mucus, and inflammatory byproducts. By breaking down fibrin and damaged tissue at sites of inflammation, it may reduce edema and improve microcirculation, while its mucolytic activity can thin viscous secretions in the respiratory tract.

Updated Invalid Date