Evidence supporting the use of: Serrapeptase
For the health condition: Mastitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme derived from the bacterium Serratia marcescens and has been investigated for its anti-inflammatory and fibrinolytic properties. Its use in mastitis, particularly non-lactational or subacute cases, is supported by a limited number of clinical studies. One notable study from 1984 (Kee WH et al., Singapore Med J) compared serrapeptase with placebo in patients with breast engorgement and mastitis, finding significant improvement in swelling, pain, and induration in the serrapeptase group. The proposed mechanisms include reducing inflammatory mediators, promoting the breakdown of inflammatory exudates, and enhancing microcirculation, thereby alleviating symptoms.

Despite these findings, the overall quality of evidence is low. The supporting studies are few, often small, and dated, with limited replication or large-scale trials. Most current clinical guidelines for mastitis do not include serrapeptase as a recommended therapy, and its use remains off-label. Nevertheless, the available scientific literature does provide some, albeit modest, validation for its anti-inflammatory effects in mastitis, which is more than can be said for many other supplements. Caution is advised due to the limited evidence base and potential for side effects or interactions.

More about Serrapeptase
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Products containing Serrapeptase

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.