Serratiopeptidase is an enzyme that is present in the
intestine of the silkworm. It is used by the silkworm to dissolve its cocoon. It
is popularly used as a medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties and helps
reduce swelling. It has also been found to reduce the ability of bacteria to
stick to each other and other surfaces and reduce mucus buildup. This means
that it may be able to reduce nasal discharge, phlegm buildup and symptoms of
lung cystic fibrosis.
Effectiveness
Inflammation – It
reduces inflammation and swelling following surgery or trauma. Although it is
not as effective as corticosteroids, it has still found to be useful in
reducing inflammation.
Pain – When there
is a reduction in inflammation after surgery, it has been found to reduce pain in
a significant manner. The pain is reduced within 1 – 5 days after surgery.
Edema – The
effects of edema and swelling after the surgery appear reduced.
Breast tenderness
– Soreness and tenderness of the breast has been found to be reduced in a
study. 30 mg for a period of 3 days is effective in reducing the tenderness by
at least 60%.
Mucus production –
The mucolytic properties of this enzyme has been effective in reducing the
production of mucus. People with chronic airway diseases may find relief after
30 mg administered for 4 weeks. The mucus secretion in the body is also reduced
over a period of time.
Symptoms of carpal
tunnel syndrome – Although there is a decrease in the symptoms of carpal
tunnel, you need to remember that the study undertaken for this purpose is
still not complete.
Symptoms of superficial thrombophlebitis –
The fibrinolytic properties are known to reduce the symptoms but only in a
small way.
Standard dosage
The standard dose is 10 – 60 mg. It is best supplemented on
an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before a meal or 2 hours after a meal. Most
studies suggest use of 10 mg after every 8 hours. The optimum dosage is yet to
be determined as more human studies are needed for this purpose.
Safety concerns
It has been found to be safe when taken for a short period
of time by adults. The long term effects of Serratiopeptidase are not known. Avoid
using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have a bleeding disorder. As
it increases the risk of bleeding, it can be avoided two weeks prior to
surgery.
Although it has been found to be effective for reducing
swelling after surgery, there is insufficient evidence to prove its
effectiveness in treating asthma, breast engorgement, back pain, ear pain,
heart disease, diabetics, headache, carpel tunnel syndrome and inflammatory
bowel disease. The adverse drug reaction is mostly linked to skin disorders and
it is mostly safe to use.
Comments