Serrapeptase is an enzyme originally derived from the silkworm that digests non-living tissue, including blood clots, cysts, scar tissue, arterial plaque and reduces inflammation. Serrapeptase offers a viable alternative to salicylates (such as aspirin), ibuprofen, and NSAIDS as well as steroids a boon for those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis and a wide array of other autoimmune diseases that affect the inflammatory response, including ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, uveitis, allergies. While antiinflammatory drugs may offer temporary, symptomatic relief from pain, swelling and inflammation, they may also be immunosuppressive and known to hold dangerous side effects. Serrapeptase, on the other hand, eases pain and swelling with no inhibitory effects on prostaglandins and no gastrointestinal side effects. The immunologically active enzyme is completely bound to the alpha 2 macroglobulin in biological fluids.