Pycnogenol vs Serrapeptase

Mechanism

Polyphenol-rich French maritime pine bark extract that improves endothelial nitric oxide signaling, capillary tone, and oxidative defense.

Contraindications

• Use caution before surgery

Mechanism

Serrapeptase (serratiopeptidase) is a proteolytic enzyme originally isolated from the gut of the silkworm (Serratia marcescens). It hydrolyzes non-living tissue including fibrin, blood clots, cysts, and arterial plaque while sparing living tissue. It reduces bradykinin and other pain-mediating amines, provides anti-inflammatory effects by reducing neutrophil infiltration, and thins mucus by cleaving glycoprotein structures. It may also enhance antibiotic penetration into biofilms.

Standard Dosing

120,000-240,000 SPU (serratiopeptidase units) daily

Timing

On empty stomach (critical — food proteins will be digested instead of systemic absorption). 30+ minutes before meals or 2 hours after.

Cycle Duration

Cycle 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off

Side Effects

• GI discomfort
• Nausea
• Skin rash (rare)
• Muscle/joint pain (rare)
• Pneumonitis (very rare, case reports)

Contraindications

• Bleeding disorders
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2 weeks prior)
• Concurrent anticoagulant therapy
• Active peptic ulcers
• Active bleeding
• Pre-surgery
• Blood clotting disorders

Best Stacking Partners