Evidence supporting the use of: Serratiopeptidase
For the health condition: Sprains

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Synopsis

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

Serratiopeptidase is a proteolytic enzyme that has been used, particularly in some Asian and European countries, as an anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing agent. Its use for sprains is primarily based on scientific rationale rather than traditional medicine. The enzyme is thought to reduce inflammation by breaking down inflammatory mediators such as bradykinin, histamine, and serotonin, and by promoting the drainage of inflammatory fluid from injured tissue, which could theoretically accelerate recovery from tissue injury such as sprains.

Clinical evidence to support serratiopeptidase for sprains is limited but present. Several small clinical trials and studies have suggested that serratiopeptidase can reduce swelling, pain, and recovery time in patients with traumatic injuries, including sprains. For example, a few randomized controlled trials have shown improvements in swelling and pain scores compared to placebo or standard treatment, often in combination with other therapies. However, the methodological quality of these studies is often moderate to low, and sample sizes tend to be small.

Overall, while there is some scientific evidence supporting the use of serratiopeptidase for sprains, it is not robust. Most major medical guidelines do not include it as a standard therapy, and more high-quality research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for this indication.

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