What is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase (NK) is a potent enzyme extracted from Natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish. Natto is made by fermenting soybeans with the beneficial bacterium Bacillus subtilis. This enzyme was discovered in 1987 by Sumi et al., who identified NK as the key bioactive compound responsible for many of Natto’s cardiovascular benefits.
Chemically, Nattokinase is an alkaline serine protease composed of 275 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 28 kDa. It is considered a unique compound because it exerts multiple therapeutic actions with minimal side effects, making it a promising candidate in managing cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
Why Do We Need Nattokinase?
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for over 31% of global deaths. Many conventional therapies, including anticoagulants and antihypertensive drugs, carry risks like bleeding and gastrointestinal issues. Nattokinase offers a natural, safe, and orally active alternative that addresses several root causes of cardiovascular disease simultaneously — such as blood clots, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis — without the side effects of traditional drugs.
Uses and Benefits of Nattokinase
1. Fibrinolytic and Antithrombotic Action
Nattokinase dissolves fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation. It enhances the body’s ability to break down clots by increasing tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and reducing plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). In both animal and human studies, NK has demonstrated strong antithrombotic and clot-busting capabilities, making it an ideal agent for stroke and heart attack prevention.
2. Anti-Atherosclerotic and Lipid-Lowering Effects
Nattokinase helps reduce arterial plaque and improves lipid metabolism. Studies show NK can decrease total cholesterol, LDL-C (bad cholesterol), triglycerides, and increase HDL-C (good cholesterol). It also reduces intima-media thickness in arteries, effectively slowing the progression of atherosclerosis.
3. Antihypertensive Effects
Clinical trials have shown that NK supplementation significantly lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It is thought to achieve this through the inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which plays a role in blood pressure regulation.
4. Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Activity
NK inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking thromboxane formation, similar to how aspirin works, but without the associated gastrointestinal risks. This makes it a potential alternative for patients who need long-term blood-thinning therapy.
5. Neuroprotective Properties
Beyond heart health, Nattokinase also supports brain health by degrading amyloid fibrils — proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Animal studies suggest that NK can improve memory, reduce inflammation, and prevent neuron damage.
Safety and Dosage
Nattokinase has a robust safety profile. Toxicological assessments show no harmful effects even at doses much higher than those typically used in supplements. It is well-tolerated, non-mutagenic, and has a long half-life, making it convenient for daily oral administration.
Typical dosages in clinical trials range from 2000 to 6500 FU (fibrinolytic units) per day, often administered in capsule form. However, people on anticoagulant therapy (like warfarin or aspirin) should consult a healthcare provider before using NK due to potential drug interactions.
Conclusion
Nattokinase stands out as a natural, multifunctional enzyme with the potential to revolutionize cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment. Its unique combination of fibrinolytic, antihypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic, lipid-lowering, antiplatelet, and neuroprotective effects makes it one of the most promising natural compounds in integrative cardiovascular therapy.
While more clinical trials are needed to fully establish its pharmacokinetics and interactions, current evidence supports its safe and effective role in promoting cardiovascular and neurological health.
References
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Chen H. et al., Nattokinase: A Promising Alternative in Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases, Biomarker Insights, 2018. DOI: 10.1177/1177271918785130