Healthy Living Makes a Difference

Serrapeptase – the silk worm’s gift to mankind

  • Erika Geisheimer, Blog Coordinator
  • Communications, Good n' Natural Health Food Store

Serrapeptase, also known as Serratia Peptidase, was first discovered in Japan when entomologists researching the life processes of the silk worm discovered that an enzyme produced by bacteria in the intestine of the worm (Serratia Peptisdase) was responsible for the worms ability to dissolve a hole in the cocoon and to allow the silk worm moth to escape its self-made prison and to continue its life cycle.

Researchers discovered that the cocoon is made from a fibre (fibrin) and that this fibre is very similar to the fibrous “plaque” that builds up in the human vascular system. Some unknown researcher reasoned that if this highly specialized enzyme can dissolve the cocoon fibrin without damaging other cells in the silk worm’s body, then perhaps it could safely dissolve the fibrin that builds up in the human body.

After years of research and testing it was proved that Serrapeptase indeed safely dissolves the plaque buildup in the arteries of those with CHD and it became an established treatment for those with CHD.

Serrapeptase: A Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Clinical studies also show that Serrapeptase induces fibrinolytic, anti-inflammatory and anti-edemic (prevents swelling and fluid retention) activity in a number of tissues, and that its anti-inflammatory effects are superior to other proteolytic enzymes.

Besides reducing inflammation, one of Serrapeptase most profound benefits is reduction of pain, due to its ability to block the release of pain-inducing amines from inflamed tissues. Physicians throughout Asia and Europe have recognized the anti-inflammatory and pain-blocking benefits of this naturally occurring substance and are using it in treatment as an alternative to salicylates, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs.

Serrapeptase is thought to work in three ways:

  • It may reduce inflammation by thinning the fluids formed from injury, and facilitating the fluid’s drainage. This in turn, also speeds tissue repair.
  • It may help alleviate pain by inhibiting the release of pain-inducing amines called bradykinin.
  • It may enhance cardiovascular health by breaking down the protein by-products of blood coagulation called fibrin. Conveniently, Serrapeptase is able to dissolve the fibrin and other dead or damaged tissue without harming living tissue. This could enable the dissolution of atherosclerotic plaques without causing any harm to the inside of the arteries.

Serrapeptase is being used as a highly effective support to antibiotics in many countries. It treats inflammatory disorders by not only fighting inflammation, but also by relieving pain and swelling, improving recovery time and stimulating the immune system. Serrapeptase has a “scavenging” effect. It helps remove the heavy metals through which the body releases toxins and hence modulates the immune system, addresses hormonal imbalances and speeds wound and tissue repair time.

Commercially, Serrapeptase is produced from the strain of bacteria originally found in the silk worm’s intestinal tract. This process is similar to that of producing yogurt. No silk worm is used in the process

We can thank Mother Nature for this remarkable gift to mankind’s health and well-being.