Nattokinase
SupplementFibrinolytic enzyme supplement
A real evidence base, with gaps
- Regulatory standing. Sold as a supplement, not an approved drug
- Limited human data. Some human data exists, not conclusive
- Registered human trials. 11 registered studies on ClinicalTrials.gov, most advanced Phase 4
- No sources. Nothing cited to verify
Computed with the same four public criteria as every profile. The human-evidence grade on an indexed profile is set automatically and may change when it is hand-reviewed. It is not a safety score, not a purity rating, and not medical advice, and not a claim that this compound treats, cures, or prevents any condition.
What it is
Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme produced by the bacterium Bacillus subtilis during fermentation of soybeans into natto, a traditional Japanese food. It is sold as a dietary supplement and is thought to break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting, and may influence other clotting factors.
What the evidence shows
There are about 11 registered human trials and some small studies suggesting effects on clotting markers or blood pressure, but results are mixed and a larger trial did not show slowing of atherosclerosis progression. It is not FDA-approved for any condition, and its safety alongside blood thinners is not well established.
Registered human trials
Live from ClinicalTrials.gov, refreshed daily.
Effects of Nattokinase Supplementation on Strength Recovery and Muscle Damage Biomarkers Following Exercise-Induced Muscle Injury: A Pilot Study
Effects of Nattokinase on Inflammation and Cardiovascular Risk Markers in Patients With Dyslipidemia
Effects of NSK-SD (Nattokinase) on Blood Pressure
Effects of Nattokinase on Cardiovascular Risk, Gut Microbiota, Sleep, and Cognition in Metabolic Syndrome With Sleep Disorders.
Published literature
Live from Europe PMC. This is how much has been published, not how much is proven in humans.
A novel fibrinolytic enzyme (nattokinase) in the vegetable cheese Natto; a typical and popular soybean food in the Japanese diet.
Breaking the vicious loop between inflammation, oxidative stress and coagulation, a novel anti-thrombus insight of nattokinase by inhibiting LPS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress.
Enhancement of the fibrinolytic activity in plasma by oral administration of nattokinase.
Purification and characterization of a strong fibrinolytic enzyme (nattokinase) in the vegetable cheese natto, a popular soybean fermented food in Japan.
Sources
Risks, side effects and study doses are only published on hand-reviewed profiles. Want this one reviewed, or spotted something wrong? Tell us.