Nattokinase
Also known as natto, natto extract, nattokinase enzyme
Key takeaways
- Nattokinase supplementation is associated with improvements in cardiovascular risk factors (PMID: 39076715)
- A single dose of oral nattokinase can potentiate thrombolysis and anti-coagulation profiles (PMID: 26109079)
- Nattokinase shows potential in reducing blood pressure (PMID: 18971533)
What the research shows
AI-synthesized from 4 peer-reviewed sources · Updated 2025
Nattokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme derived from fermented soybean. Research suggests it may support cardiovascular health by improving blood pressure and enhancing thrombolysis and anti-coagulation profiles.
By condition
Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Moderate
A systematic review and meta-analysis indicates that nattokinase supplementation can positively influence cardiovascular risk factors.
Hypertension
Weak
A randomized controlled trial demonstrated that nattokinase may have a blood-pressure-lowering effect.
Effective doses
Not specified in provided abstracts
Safety & interactions
Due to its anti-coagulation and thrombolytic effects, nattokinase may interact with blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants/antiplatelets) and should be used with caution in patients with bleeding disorders.
Limitations
The available evidence is limited by small sample sizes in individual RCTs and a relatively small number of high-quality systematic reviews.
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How it's sold
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Research evidence
Showing top 10 of 4 sources, sorted by quality
**Li et al., 2023** | Rev Cardiovasc Med | Systematic Review Li Xinmin, Long Junzi, ... Zhang Yasu. Nattokinase Supplementation and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Rev Card…
**Kim et al., 2008** | Hypertens Res | Rct Kim Ji Young, Gum Si Nae, ... Lee Jong Ho. Effects of nattokinase on blood pressure: a randomized, controlled trial. Hypertens Res. 2008-Aug;31(8):1583-8. doi:10.1291/hypres.31.1583 The objective o…
**Kurosawa et al., 2015** | Sci Rep | Rct Kurosawa Yuko, Nirengi Shinsuke, ... Hamaoka Takafumi. A single-dose of oral nattokinase potentiates thrombolysis and anti-coagulation profiles. Sci Rep. 2015-Jun-25;5:11601. doi:10.1038/srep11601 O…
**Ren et al., 2017** | Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi | Other Ren N N, Chen H J, ... Lin Y G. [A clinical study on the effect of nattokinase on carotid artery atherosclerosis and hyperlipidaemia]. Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2017-Jul-11;97(26):2038-204…
Frequently asked questions
What is nattokinase and what is it used for?
Nattokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme derived from fermented soybean. Research suggests it may support cardiovascular health by improving blood pressure and enhancing thrombolysis and anti-coagulation profiles.
Does nattokinase help with high blood pressure?
There is weak evidence suggesting nattokinase may have a blood-pressure-lowering effect based on a randomized controlled trial. However, because the evidence is limited, it should not replace prescribed hypertension medications without consulting a healthcare provider.
What is the effective dose of nattokinase?
The effective dose is not specified in the provided research abstracts. Consumers should consult a healthcare provider for personalized dosage recommendations rather than relying on general guidelines.
Does nattokinase interact with other medications?
Due to its anti-coagulation and thrombolytic effects, nattokinase may interact with blood-thinning medications such as anticoagulants or antiplatelets. It is important to discuss potential interactions with a healthcare provider before use.
Who should avoid taking nattokinase?
Patients with bleeding disorders should use nattokinase with caution due to its potential to affect blood clotting. Additionally, individuals taking blood-thinning medications should avoid it or use it only under medical supervision to prevent adverse interactions.
What is the evidence quality for nattokinase and cardiovascular health?
A systematic review and meta-analysis indicates moderate evidence that nattokinase supplementation can positively influence cardiovascular risk factors. While promising, this evidence level suggests further research is needed to confirm long-term efficacy.
Can nattokinase improve blood clotting profiles?
Research indicates that a single dose of oral nattokinase can potentiate thrombolysis and anti-coagulation profiles. This effect highlights the importance of medical supervision, especially for those with existing bleeding risks.