Serrapeptase, also known as Serratia Peptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme isolated from the non-pathogenic enterobacteria Serratia E15. When consumed in unprotected tablets or capsules, the enzyme is destroyed by acid in the stomach. However, our special enteric-coated NPcaps™ or Caplets enable the enzyme to pass through the stomach unchanged, and be absorbed in the intestine. Serrapeptase is found in negligible amounts in the urine, suggesting that it is transported directly from the intestine into the bloodstream.

Clinical studies 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's 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.

In Germany and other European countries, Serrapeptase is a common treatment for inflammatory and traumatic swellings, and much of the research that exists on this substance is of European origin. One double-blind study was conducted by German researchers to determine the effect of Serrapeptase on post-operative swelling and pain. This study involved sixty-six patients who were treated surgically for fresh rupture of the lateral collateral ligament of the knee. On the third post-operative day, the group receiving Serrapeptase exhibited a 50 percent reduction of swelling, compared to the controls. The patients receiving Serrapeptase also became more rapidly pain-free than the controls, and by the tenth day, the pain had disappeared completely.

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 anti-biotics 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.

Serrapeptase Rx is provided in enteric coated vegetable based microcrystalline cellulose capsules or caplets. Derived from a controlled fermentation of the bacterial strain, Serratia sp. T-1 secretes this enzyme in medium. Successive purification steps, for example micro-filtration, ammonium sulphyhate, fractionation, DEAE-Cellulase column chromatography, gel filtration followed by repeat aseptic filtration and freeze drying yields this product in a highly purified form, enabling it to be used for medicinal purpose. The enteric-coated microcrystalline capsules protect the enzyme from inactivation in the acidic medium of the stomach. Serapeptase is a stronger saseinolytic (fibrinolytic) agent than any other known alkaline or neutral protease such as bromelain or pronase.

Note: Some manufacturers use 'enteric coated' enzyme in a non-enteric coated capsule. This is not as effective as using an enteric coated capsule or caplet as some of the enzyme will be denatured by stomach acid. Enerex's enteric coated capsules and caplets ensure that the entire enzyme is delivered to the small intestine for maximum absorption.

Conclusion
Regardless of whether Serrapeptase is used for inflammatory diseases or to prevent plaque build up on the arteries, it is well-tolerated. Due to its lack of side effects and anti-inflammatory capabilities, Serrapeptase is a logical choice to replace harmful NSAIDs. Thanks to the tiny larvae of the silk moth, researchers have taken a large step toward finding relief for inflammatory disease sufferers.