What Is Serrapeptase? What to Know Before Trying It

Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme that breaks proteins in the body into amino acids. Originally isolated from a bacteria in silkworms, serrapeptase, also known as serratiopeptidase, is taken as a natural dietary supplement.^[1]

Scientists and health care researchers are still are still researching the possible wellness properties of serrapeptase. Read on to learn what we know so far, including why people are taking serrapeptase with another proteolytic enzyme, nattokinase.^[2]

What is serrapeptase?

Enzymes are proteins that serve as catalysts for the trillions of chemical reactions that take place in the body every day. They ensure that essential metabolic processes are carried out in a timely and efficient manner.^[3]

“We all have an enzyme bank account in our bodies,” explains Matt Gallant, CEO of BiOptimizers. “Everything from thinking to blinking, enzymes are involved. They’re the catalyst that kickstarts chemical and biochemical reactions in the body.”

The best-known enzymes are found in the digestive system, and they help the body break down and assimilate the macronutrients found in the foods you eat.

But enzymes do more than help you digest your food. Enzymes are essential to healing, protecting you from bacteria, reducing your inflammatory load and maintaining homeostasis.
Proteases like serrapeptase are called “systemic enzymes,” due to their ability to remain active beyond the gastrointestinal tract and be distributed via bodily fluids such as blood.^[4] As a proteolytic enzyme, serrapeptase helps break down proteins into amino acids. This includes proteins that have built up in the body due to injury or illness.

Many enzymes naturally occur in your body, including digestive enzymes.^[5] However, others need to be taken as supplements, as the body does not produce them (or doesn’t produce them in adequate quantities).

The original supplement form of serrapeptase was derived from Serratia E-15 protease, also known as Serratia peptidase—an enzyme made by a bioactive group of bacteria that evolved from the process that allows a silkworm to become a moth.^[6] Serratia bacteria are essential to the silkworm’s survival. After it weaves a silk cocoon and begins transforming into a moth, the silkworm releases Serratia bacteria from its gut. The Serratia produce serrapeptase. Because this enzyme eats through protein, it dissolves the silk cocoon, opening it up for the silk moth to emerge.^[7]

Though this enzyme is produced by silkworms, some supplements sold in the US use a vegan alternative form of serrapeptase.

Now you know where it comes from, but what do we know about serrapeptase benefits?

Possible serrapeptase benefits

In Japan and Europe, serrapeptase has been used for decades.^[8] However, scientists are still trying to fully understand serrapeptase through additional studies and clinical trials.

A 2020 literature review published in the journal Biotechnology Reports found it to be a safe treatment option for certain areas of health. Studies cited in the review reported no side effects or adverse events in using serrapeptase.^[9] However, some of the studies are more than a decade old – or are too small to be statistically significant.

Here are a few potential serrapeptase benefits and caveats:

• Dental support: A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery in 2017 suggests that serrapeptase may be effective and safe to use after certain dental procedures. However, more research is needed, as only five studies were available for review.^[10]
  Antibiotic support: Serrapeptase may help to promote the effectiveness of certain antibiotics by preventing bacteria from creating protective biofilms around themselves.^[11]

The bottom line: More research needs to be conducted to help solidify the links between serrapeptase and its potential health benefits.

Related: What Are Peptides? How Peptides Work for Fat-Burning and Recovery

Should you take serrapeptase?

Before you start taking serrapeptase or other supplements, check in with your doctor or health care provider first. They can offer their professional opinion and expert medical advice about whether serrapeptase is right for you—including potential serrapeptase dangers, such as negative interactions with medications or other supplements you’re taking. This is especially important in people who may be prone to allergic reactions as new forms of proteins are introduced into their diet.

SSerrapeptase may thin bodily fluids, including blood and mucus. If you’re taking prescription anticoagulants like Warfarin, Xarelto or Eliquis, or you take over the counter medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen, proceed with caution.

Always be sure to choose supplements that use quality, tested ingredients and are made by producers who are transparent about their sourcing. Thoroughly read the label and any accompanying information, including recommended dose, side effects and when to take serrapeptase for best results, such as taking it on an empty stomach.

This article has been updated with new content.