Everything you need to know about Serrapeptase: alternatives & how it works
Reviewed and fact-checked by Giulia Guerrini, Superintendent Pharmacist. Read our editorial policy to see how we create informative, accurate content.
Whether you’ve taken a tumble, suffer from back pain or have a condition like arthritis, you’ll know all about how unpleasant inflammation and pain is. Even something small like stubbing your toe can cause inflammation (and perhaps a few swear words) – we’ve all been there.
If you suffer from inflammation, you’ve probably heard about serrapeptase. Some people swear by this supplement, saying it does wonders for their chronic inflammation. Unfortunately, you might find it harder to get your hands on serrapeptase right now, as The UK has reclassified Serrapeptase as a ‘Novel Food’ – that means there hasn’t been enough history of people taking it with benefits for it to be sold as a supplement. Most sellers of Serrapeptase are awaiting new classifications right now, so we’re likely to experience a bit of a drought as an online pharmacy for the time being.
We’ve put together this article to break down what inflammation is; how serrapeptase has been said to help reduce inflammation in the body; and some great alternatives to serrapeptase, in case you can’t get any.
What is inflammation?
Not all inflammation is created equal. Some types are good – even though it doesn’t feel that way – and some are bad. Normal, or acute, inflammation is the way your immune system responds to something that harms your body. That could be an injection, an injury or even toxins, bacteria and viruses. It shows you that your immune system is working and only lasts a few hours or days – and that’s great!
The bad type of inflammation (chronic) happens when your immune system thinks your normal, healthy cells are invaders and launches an attack against them. This can cause different autoimmune diseases such as arthritis (joint inflammation), asthma, type 1 diabetes and more. This type of inflammation can last for months, years or even a lifetime, sadly.
What are the signs of inflammation?
There are five symptoms of acute inflammation - the normal kind that shows your immune system is working. You might experience some, all or none of these.
- Redness
- Heat
- Swelling
- Pain
- Loss of function: this includes symptoms like difficulty moving your arm if you have joint inflammation or losing your sense of smell if you’ve got a cold
How to reduce inflammation in the body
There are quite a few ways that you can reduce inflammation in the body. Some of them are obvious and others may surprise you. Here’s a list of what different people use for inflammation treatment.
- Diet: With a quick search, you’ll be able to find a number of diets that claim to reduce inflammation. These will include foods like tomatoes, leafy greens, nuts, olive oil, fatty fish and fruit.
- Medication: If you’ve hurt yourself and have a little bit of pain and swelling, you can try an over the counter anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen. If the inflammation is quite serious or chronic, your doctor may prescribe stronger tablets.
- Supplements: There are loads of supplements that claim to reduce inflammation. With a little bit of research, you’ll be able to find one that suits you. Some people swear by a serrapeptase, such as Natures Aid Serrapeptase… and we’ll get into that one, plus any alternatives.
What is serrapeptase?
The serrapeptase enzyme was originally found in the gut of silkworms in the 70s. Don’t worry, the enzyme isn’t taken from silkworms anymore. Instead, it’s created in a lab, so it’s even safe for vegans to take. It’s been used in Japan, Europe and the US and is thought to have anti-inflammatory effects.
People have noticed many serrapeptase benefits and often use it for all types of inflammation and pain like back or joint pain, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and much more.
How does serrapeptase work?
The serrapeptase enzyme helps your body break down proteins into smaller parts called amino acids. This is thought to help reduce inflammation and even mucus.
Where can I get serrapeptase?
Usually, you can buy serrapeptase with us: we stock both Lindens and Nature’s Aid serrapeptase products.
You’d usually be able to buy Lindens Health + Nutrition Serrapeptase 80,000IU 500 Tablets, 90 Tablets and 30 Tablets from us, as well as Nature's Aid Serrapeptase 250,000iu 60 Tablets and 30 Tablets, all with next day delivery options.
They’re out of stock right now though, and like everywhere else, we won’t have any new stock of serrapeptase in for a while, while its classification gets figured out. But if you sign up for stock notifications on each product page, you’ll be the first to hear about it when we do.
So, what are Serrapeptase alternatives?
If you can’t get the real deal, don’t worry. There are a lot of great Serrapeptase alternatives that we happen to already stock, to make sure you have what you need. Here’s our top three:
- Bromelain: Bromelain, produced from the fruits and stems of pineapples, has been used alongside or as an alternative to Serrapeptase by many over the years. Bromelain is said to have the same effect on inflammation and swelling as Serrapeptase, so now might be a good time to try – one of our favourites is Higher Nature Bromelain 30 Capsules.
- Papain: Also known as Papaya Proteinase I, Papain is found in the leaves, roots and fruit of the papaya plant. Much like Bromelain, many people use Papain alternatively or alongside Serrapeptase, as it’s said to help reduce inflammation too. Want to give it a go? You can find it paired with Bromelain (so you won’t be missing out on anything), thanks to Lindens. Just pick up Lindens Health + Nutrition Bromelain & Papain 100 Tablets from our site.
- Turmeric: This is the big one – Turmeric has been around for years, and it has a ton of studies that support its beneficial properties for health. Turmeric is one of those superfoods: known as a proven anti-inflammatory compound, turmeric is also great for heart health, and a powerful antioxidant. Grab BetterYou Turmeric Daily Oral Spray 25ml for a spray-a-day of turmeric – or combine the effects of Turmeric and Bromelain, with a dash of good-for-you ginger, thanks to Nature's Aid Ginger, Turmeric & Bromelain 60 Tablets.
Keen to try these Serrapeptase alternatives? Let us know what you think… and don’t forget, you can have next day delivery on all of them – it’s even free if your basket is over £25! Waiting for the real deal instead? Don’t forget to sign up for Back in Stock notifications on each product page: you’ll be the first to know.
