Serrapeptase is an enzyme found in the intestine of silkworms, offering numerous health benefits to humans thanks to its anti-inflammatory and protein-degrading properties. But does Serrapeptase cause hair loss?
This question remains a subject of controversy among Serrapeptase users and researchers alike. To discover the truth, read on.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Does Serrapeptase Cause Hair Loss?
No research shows Serrapeptase causes hair loss, so you can be assured of using this compound as a dietary supplement to improve your health.
However, as every person's body is different, hair loss may occur due to genetics, stress, diet, and other underlying health issues.
Suppose you notice unusual hair loss or hair loss when using Serrapeptase. In that case, you should consult a doctor to find a remedy and get accurate advice.
Are Serrapeptase Benefits for Hair Health?
Serrapeptase offers improvements for people suffering from scalp diseases or baldness. Serrapeptase contains enzymes that break down proteins, effectively treating infections [1] or cases of scalp inflammation affecting hair follicles.
However, no specific studies are proving the benefits of Serrapeptase for hair. If you are experiencing significant hair loss or scalp and follicle issues, take the time to consult experts to find the right supplement.
How Does Serrapeptase Benefit Hair Health?
Serratiopeptidase is a leading enzyme with a long history in medicine as an effective anti-inflammatory drug [2], working on the mechanism of protein degradation.
Inflammation is a protective measure of the body against the development of harmful bacteria, and scalp inflammation operates on this mechanism.
The process of cleaning invading elements and signaling toxic alerts maintains the tissue's homeostasis.
Serrapeptase indirectly supports resolving inflammation as they do not affect the production of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPM) catalyzed by enzymes influencing the natural inflammation-resolving process (LOX) [2].
Additionally, it keeps immune cells mobile and maintains a significant amount of leukocytes at the inflammation site. Therefore, it has the effect of reducing scalp inflammation, improving the health of hair follicles, and limiting hair loss.
Other Benefits of Serrapeptase
While Serrapeptase may be unfamiliar to many consumers, it offers numerous health benefits besides protein degradation and inflammation reduction. Below are some other notable health benefits of Serrapeptase.
Reducing Swelling
In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, Serrapeptase reduces swelling [3] by breaking down abnormal protein structures within the body, maintaining a localized concentration of white blood cells around inflammation sites to control edema.
Serrapeptase is approved as a standard treatment for swelling in many European countries. Studies have shown that this enzyme can reduce postoperative swelling by up to 50% in patients who experienced less pain than those who did not take the enzyme [4].
Preventing Atherosclerosis
Serrapeptase dissolves fibrin [5], eliminating plaques around the arteries without harming any healthy cells. It also helps to prevent blood clots that can lead to blockages and atherosclerosis.
Reducing Sinus Inflammation
For individuals dealing with sinus inflammation, swelling, and discomfort in the nasal cavities, Serrapeptase can alleviate pain by expelling excess mucus and fluids from the body.
A systematic review of the anti-inflammatory effects of Serrapeptase also highlighted its role in reducing inflammation [6] and pain in conditions like postoperative swelling, TMJ inflammation, and bronchitis, including sinusitis.
Improving Respiratory Health
Serrapeptase is an effective mucolytic agent that is beneficial in improving and healing damage in the respiratory tract.
It is proven to enhance the transportation of mucus, easily clearing it from the airways through coughing while also dissolving the mucus and reducing its viscosity in the nose [7].
Enhancing Digestive Health
Serrapeptase promotes better functioning of the digestive system by improving the breakdown of proteins in the body, ensuring nutrients are better absorbed through the intestines while also reducing digestive discomfort and improving gut health [8].
What Should You Consider When Taking Serrapeptase?
Similar to other supplements, when using Serrapeptase, there are several factors to consider to maximize its health benefits, whether it's for hair health or the digestive and respiratory systems:
Dosage: The recommended dosage of Serrapeptase is 10 mg/kg of body weight [9]. Do not exceed the maximum dosage indicated on the packaging or advised by a physician.
Avoid taking Serrapeptase alongside blood thinners like Warfarin or Heparin.
Pregnant women or those breastfeeding should not use Serrapeptase.
Always consult with a doctor about your condition before consuming any supplement.
Discontinue Serrapeptase two weeks before any surgical operation, including minor or major surgery.
Limit garlic, fish oil, and turmeric in your diet while taking Serrapeptase, as it may increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Conclusion
This addresses the detailed query: Does Serrapeptase Cause Hair Loss? In addition, it provides information on this protein-dissolving enzyme and other health benefits it offers.
Serrapeptase is considered a safe dietary supplement with beneficial effects on scalp health.
References
- [1] Mecikoglu, Mete, et al. “The Effect of Proteolytic Enzyme Serratiopeptidase in the Treatment of Experimental Implant-Related Infection.” JBJS, vol. 88, no. 6, 1 June 2006, p. 1208, journals.lww.com/jbjsjournal/abstract/2006/06000/the_effect_of_proteolytic_enzyme_serratiopeptidase.6.aspx, https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.E.00007. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.
- [2] Tiwari, Manju. "The Role of Serratiopeptidase in the Resolution of Inflammation." Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, vol. 12, no. 3, May 2017, pp. 209–215, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S181808761630160X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajps.2017.01.003.
- [3] Krishna, BPramod, et al. "Role of Serratiopeptidase and Dexamethasone in the Control of Postoperative Swelling." Annals of Maxillofacial Surgery, vol. 10, no. 1, 2020, p. 108, https://doi.org/10.4103/ams.ams_249_19.
- [4] Kee, W. H., et al. "The Treatment of Breast Engorgement with Serrapeptase (Danzen): A Randomised Double-Blind Controlled Trial." Singapore Medical Journal, vol. 30, no. 1, 1 Feb. 1989, pp. 48–54, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2688125/. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.
- [5] ---. "Study of the Fibrinolytic Activity of Serrapeptase and Its in Vitro Thrombolytic Effects." Brazilian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, vol. 58, 2022, www.scielo.br/j/bjps/a/5pqHqqWY3P5xwZ4mkDZdrtB/?format=pdf&lang=en, https://doi.org/10.1590/s2175-97902022e201004.
- [6] Bhagat, Shivani , and Vandana Roy. "Serratiopeptidase: A Systematic Review of the Existing Evidence." Sciencedirect, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1743919113000265?via%3Dihub#bib1. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.
- [7] Sharma, Charu , and Niraj Kumar Jha. "Serratiopeptidase, a Serine Protease Anti-Inflammatory, Fibrinolytic, and Mucolytic Drug, Can Be a Useful Adjuvant for Management in COVID-19." Frontiers, 24 June 2021, www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.603997/full. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.
- [8] By Robert Redfern with Studies and Literature Extracts for Health Professionals.
- [9] Jadhav, Swati B., et al. "Serratiopeptidase: Insights into the Therapeutic Applications." Biotechnology Reports, vol. 28, Dec. 2020, p. e00544, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.btre.2020.e00544.
