By Lindsay Powers, Nutritional Therapist | Last Updated: June 2026
This article was written by Lindsay Powers, Nutritional Therapist, as part of her role with Good Health Naturally. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement. This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Serrapeptase is one of those supplements that tends to inspire strong loyalty among the people who use it. Also known as serratiopeptidase, it sits in a category of enzymes called proteolytic enzymes (or proteases), meaning it has the ability to break down proteins. It has been used in parts of Europe and Japan for decades, and interest in it has grown steadily in the US and wider wellness communities. If you are already curious about trying a serrapeptase supplement, read on to make sure you have the full picture first.
In this article, I want to give you a clear, research-grounded overview of what serrapeptase is, how it works, what the science currently shows, and what to consider before you try it. As always, my aim is to help you make informed decisions, not to make decisions for you.
Key Points
- Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme produced through microbial fermentation, originally isolated from silkworm gut bacteria.
- It has been researched primarily in relation to inflammatory markers and post-surgical recovery.
- Enzyme activity is measured in U (Units), SPU, or IU; look for this on product labels rather than milligrams alone.
- High-strength tablets do not require enteric coating; capsule products should be delayed-release.
- It may interact with blood-thinning medications; always consult your doctor before use.
- This product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Where Does Serrapeptase Come From?
Serrapeptase was originally isolated from the digestive system of the silkworm (Bombyx mori). The bacterium responsible for producing it, Serratia marcescens, was found naturally in the gut of the silkworm and was identified as the source of an enzyme capable of dissolving the silkworm’s cocoon. Researchers recognized this protein-dissolving activity as potentially significant and began investigating it in the 1960s and 1970s [1].
Today, commercially produced serrapeptase is no longer derived from silkworms. It is manufactured through microbial fermentation, typically using Serratia or other bacterial strains grown in controlled laboratory conditions. The result is a concentrated enzyme that is formulated for use in supplements, and how that formulation is delivered has evolved considerably over the years [2].
How Does Serrapeptase Work?
Serrapeptase is a serine protease, a class of enzyme that cleaves peptide bonds in proteins. In practical terms, this means it is capable of breaking down non-living protein matter. This is the same mechanism by which the silkworm dissolves its cocoon: the enzyme targets dead or inactive protein tissue without affecting living cells.
Researchers believe this selectivity is central to why serrapeptase has attracted interest as a supplement. Two areas have received the most scientific attention.
Protein Breakdown and Tissue Support
Laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated that serrapeptase can break down certain proteins associated with cellular debris and dead tissue. A review published in Biotechnology Reports (2020) summarized several studies noting serrapeptase’s ability to act on non-viable protein structures, which researchers proposed could support the body’s natural tissue maintenance processes [3].
Serrapeptase and the Inflammatory Response
A number of studies have explored whether serrapeptase may influence markers associated with the body’s inflammatory response. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Arzneimittelforschung (Drug Research) examined serrapeptase in participants following dental surgery and noted differences in swelling and discomfort markers compared to placebo over the observation period [4].
A further randomized controlled study published in the International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (2008) examined serrapeptase following surgical extraction of mandibular third molars and observed differences in swelling, pain, and trismus scores compared to placebo in the treatment group [5].
It is important to be clear: these studies examine biological markers and reported symptom scores in specific clinical contexts. They do not establish that serrapeptase treats, prevents, or cures any inflammatory condition. The FDA has not approved serrapeptase as a treatment for any disease, and it remains classified as a dietary supplement in the United States.
What the Research Does and Does Not Tell Us
Serrapeptase has a longer history of clinical investigation than many enzyme supplements, particularly in Europe and Japan where it was used as a pharmaceutical product for several decades. However, the overall evidence base has limitations that are worth understanding.
Many of the early studies were small in sample size and conducted in specific post-surgical or dental contexts. Larger, more rigorous randomized controlled trials are still limited. A 2017 review in the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences noted that while early findings were promising, further large-scale clinical trials were needed to draw definitive conclusions about efficacy and optimal dosing [6].
This does not mean the research is without value. It means we should interpret it proportionately: as a basis for ongoing investigation and informed personal exploration, not as proof of therapeutic effect.
Serrapeptase in Context: How It Compares to Other Proteolytic Enzymes
Serrapeptase is one of several proteolytic enzymes available as supplements. Understanding the differences can help you navigate the category more confidently.
| Enzyme | Source | Primary Research Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Serrapeptase | Microbial fermentation (Serratia sp.) | Inflammatory markers, post-surgical swelling |
| Nattokinase | Fermented soybeans (natto) | Fibrinolytic activity, cardiovascular markers |
| Bromelain | Pineapple stem | Anti-inflammatory markers, digestive support |
| Papain | Papaya | Digestive support, protein breakdown |
| Lumbrokinase | Earthworm species | Fibrinolytic activity |
Each enzyme has a distinct mechanism and a distinct body of research. Serrapeptase is unique in its bacterial origin and its particular focus in post-surgical and inflammatory marker research. If you are interested in nattokinase specifically, we have a dedicated guide: What Is Nattokinase and How Does It Work?
Understanding Serrapeptase Dosage and Units
One of the more confusing aspects of shopping for serrapeptase is the way activity is measured, and you will encounter different labeling conventions depending on the brand.
Serrapeptase enzyme activity can be expressed in several ways. SPU (Serrapeptase Proteolytic Units) is one common standard. IU (International Units) is another. Some manufacturers, including Good Health Naturally, use simply U (Units) on their labeling. All of these are measures of enzyme activity rather than weight, which is what actually matters when assessing potency. A milligram figure alone tells you very little about how active the enzyme is.
Common supplements on the US market range from 40,000 U to 250,000 U per serving (or equivalent in SPU or IU), though the doses used in clinical studies have varied considerably. There is no universally agreed standard daily intake for serrapeptase as a dietary supplement, which makes product comparison more complex than it should be.
When evaluating any serrapeptase supplement, look for a product that clearly states its activity in U, SPU, or IU and is manufactured to recognized quality standards. How the product is delivered matters too, and that is covered in more detail below.
Who Tends to Be Interested in Serrapeptase?
In my experience, the people who seek out serrapeptase tend to be those exploring natural approaches to managing everyday discomfort, supporting recovery after physical stress, or looking for enzyme-based supplements as part of a broader wellness strategy.
It is popular among:
- Adults interested in natural support for the body’s inflammatory response as part of a healthy lifestyle
- Those who have read about enzyme therapy and want to explore this category of supplements
- People looking for non-animal-derived alternatives to certain supplement categories (noting that commercial serrapeptase is produced by microbial fermentation, not from silkworms)
- Individuals who have tried nattokinase or bromelain and want to explore other proteolytic options
Important Safety Information
Who Should Exercise Caution
Because serrapeptase is a protein-dissolving enzyme, there are some circumstances where caution is particularly warranted.
Blood-thinning medications: Some research suggests serrapeptase may have mild fibrinolytic properties in addition to its broader proteolytic activity. If you take anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications such as warfarin, aspirin, or direct oral anticoagulants, speak with your prescribing doctor before using serrapeptase [7].
Before surgery: As a precaution, practitioners typically recommend stopping proteolytic enzyme supplements at least two weeks before any planned surgical procedure. Discuss this with your surgical team.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is insufficient safety data to recommend serrapeptase during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is best avoided during these periods.
Autoimmune conditions: People with autoimmune conditions or those taking immunosuppressant medications should consult their doctor before using serrapeptase, as the enzyme’s interaction with immune-related proteins is not fully characterized.
Tablet vs. Capsule: Does Delivery Format Matter?
This is an area where thinking has evolved, and it is worth understanding the history. When serrapeptase first came to market, it was available at relatively low potency levels, and enteric coating was used to protect the enzyme from stomach acid and ensure it could reach the small intestine intact. At those lower strengths, that protection was considered essential.
Today, serrapeptase is produced at significantly higher activity levels. High-strength tablets dissolve more slowly through the digestive process, which means the enzyme has a degree of natural protection simply by virtue of how gradually it is released. Many reputable brands now formulate high-potency serrapeptase tablets without additional enteric coatings, partly because the higher strength makes it less necessary, and partly because some manufacturers prefer to avoid synthetic coating materials where they are not needed.
That said, if you are choosing a capsule-based serrapeptase product, delayed-release capsules remain important. Capsules dissolve much faster than tablets and without that protection the enzyme is more vulnerable to stomach acid before it can be absorbed. Note that delayed-release is not the same as enteric coating: delayed-release capsules are designed to open further along the digestive tract, giving the enzyme time to pass through the stomach safely, without the need for an additional chemical coating. So the guidance is not the same for all formats: high-strength tablets from quality manufacturers can be effective as standard, while capsule products should specifically use a delayed-release design to be reliably effective.
Questions I Hear Often About Serrapeptase
Is serrapeptase still made from silkworms?
Commercial serrapeptase supplements are produced through microbial fermentation, not from silkworms. The original bacterial strain was isolated from the silkworm gut, but modern manufacturing does not use silkworms in production. Many products are suitable for vegans, though it is worth confirming with the manufacturer.
How long before I notice anything?
Clinical studies have observed changes in inflammatory markers over periods ranging from a few days (in post-surgical contexts) to several weeks. For general wellness use, most practitioners suggest allowing at least four to six weeks of consistent supplementation before drawing conclusions. Individual responses vary considerably.
Can I take serrapeptase with food?
Most practitioners recommend taking serrapeptase on an empty stomach, typically 30 minutes before a meal or at least two hours after eating. Taking it with food may reduce the amount of enzyme available for systemic absorption, as some will be directed toward digesting dietary protein instead.
Is serrapeptase the same as serratiopeptidase?
Yes, these are different names for the same enzyme. Serratiopeptidase is the more formal scientific name; serrapeptase is the commonly used commercial term.
What to Look For in a Serrapeptase Supplement
With the supplement market expanding rapidly, it pays to be selective. Here is what I look for when evaluating a serrapeptase product:
Look for:
- Clear enzyme activity labeling in U (Units), SPU, or IU rather than milligrams alone
- High-strength tablets from reputable manufacturers (which do not require additional coatings at higher potencies), or delayed-release capsules if you prefer that format (note: delayed-release is distinct from enteric coating)
- Transparent manufacturing information
- A reputable supplier with verifiable sourcing
Be cautious of:
- Products that make disease treatment or cure claims
- Supplements that list milligrams only with no activity units (U, SPU, or IU)
- Products combining many enzymes in undisclosed proprietary blends where you cannot assess individual amounts
The Bottom Line
Serrapeptase is a well-established proteolytic enzyme with a meaningful body of research, particularly around inflammatory markers and post-surgical contexts. Its history of use as a pharmaceutical-grade product in parts of Europe and Japan gives it a somewhat longer research track record than many newer supplement ingredients.
That said, the evidence base still has gaps, and no health claim has been approved for serrapeptase by the FDA. Like all supplements, it works best as part of a broader commitment to good health, not as a standalone solution.
If you are considering serrapeptase and you take any medications or have an existing health condition, please speak with your doctor or a qualified nutritional therapist before starting. Getting personalized guidance is always the most sensible first step.
Ready to explore? View the Good Health Naturally SerraEnzyme range here.
Lindsay Powers is a qualified Nutritional Therapist working with Good Health Naturally. Her focus is on metabolic health, inflammation, and evidence-based supplementation. She writes to help people navigate the ever-expanding world of natural health with clarity and confidence.
References
- Miyata, K., Maejima, K., Tomoda, K., & Isono, M. (1970). Serratia protease: Part I. Purification and general properties of the enzyme. Agricultural and Biological Chemistry, 34(2), 310–318.
- Bhagat, S., Agarwal, M., & Roy, V. (2013). Serratiopeptidase: A systematic review of the existing evidence. International Journal of Surgery, 11(3), 209–217. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijsu.2013.01.010
- Jadhav, S.B., Shah, N., Rathi, A., Rathi, V., & Rathi, A. (2020). Serratiopeptidase: Insights into the therapeutic applications. Biotechnology Reports, 28, e00544. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.btre.2020.e00544
- Tachibana, M., Mizukoshi, O., Harada, Y., Kawamoto, K., & Nakai, Y. (1984). A multi-centre, double-blind study of serrapeptase versus placebo in post-antrotomy buccal swelling. Pharmatherapeutica, 3(8), 526–530.
- Al-Khateeb, T.H., & Nusair, Y. (2008). Effect of the proteolytic enzyme serrapeptase on swelling, pain and trismus after surgical extraction of mandibular third molars. International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 37(3), 264–268. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijom.2007.11.011
- Tiwari, M. (2017). The role of serratiopeptidase in the resolution of inflammation. Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 12(3), 209–215. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajps.2017.01.003
- Mazzone, A., Catalani, M., Costanzo, M., Drusian, A., Mandoli, A., Russo, S., Guarini, E., & Vesperini, G. (1990). Evaluation of serratia peptidase in acute or chronic inflammation of otorhinolaryngology pathology: A multicentre, double-blind, randomized trial versus placebo. Journal of International Medical Research, 18(5), 379–388. https://doi.org/10.1177/030006059001800506
© 2026. All rights reserved. This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
