Nattokinase vs Serrapeptase: Differences, Benefits and Research
Share
Nattokinase and Serrapeptase
Nattokinase and serrapeptase are enzymes that have been studied for their potential roles in cardiovascular health, inflammation, and tissue-related processes. Comparing nattokinase and serrapeptase may be related to the potential benefits that both enzymes provide, how they function, and their safety records. But experimental results obtained under laboratory conditions do not always mean positive effects on human health. It means that neither nattokinase nor serrapeptase can be regarded as an effective treatment for any disease.
Explore the SpikeDetox Research Library for further reading on enzyme-related research and the limitations of current scientific evidence.
What Is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase is an enzyme that is obtained from natto, which is traditionally a Japanese food item manufactured through fermentation of soybeans by using Bacillus subtilis var. natto. The enzyme Nattokinase falls under the category of serine proteases or the enzymes involved in protein degradation. The main focus of Nattokinase research has been the enzyme’s fibrinolytic activity.
Nattokinase Mechanism of Action
Nattokinase mechanism of action is of scientific interest due to the crucial importance of fibrin in the blood-clotting process. Experiments show that under some laboratory conditions, nattokinase may digest fibrin. Scientific investigations are also carried out on the impact of this enzyme on plasmin, which contributes to fibrin digestion, as well as other factors of the blood-clotting process.
These results, however, do not confirm the capacity of nattokinase supplement intake to prevent blood clotting and cardiovascular diseases. Laboratory results may not match those obtained when taking supplements orally.
Nattokinase Benefits and Research
Benefits of nattokinase have been studied mostly regarding its impact on cardiovascular system and blood pressure. Some clinical studies with humans have considered blood pressure levels and certain cardiovascular parameters. However, the existing research is still insufficient since the studies vary in design, time periods, and results obtained.
There are no studies that show the efficiency of using nattokinase enzymes for preventing heart attack, stroke, and deep vein thrombosis. Nattokinase cannot be used as a replacement for medicines prescribed by a physician.
What Is Serrapeptase (Serratiopeptidase)?
Serrapeptase or serratiopeptidase is the name for an enzyme that is present in bacteria of the Serratia species, which can be associated with silk worms. In contrast to nattokinase that is primarily used for fibrinolysis purposes, serrapeptase is extensively studied for protein degradation properties.
It has been suggested to be useful for such purposes as post-operative swelling, pain, and inflammation. Nevertheless, the level of evidence for these applications is different, and mere biological activity cannot prove clinical efficacy.
Serrapeptase Benefits and Mechanism of Action
Serrapeptase acts on selected proteins under appropriate circumstances. The action may affect proteinaceous substances related to inflammation and swelling of the tissues. This enzyme has been studied for its application in dental and surgical fields as well as respiratory disorders.
Despite all this, the effectiveness of the enzyme is still questionable. Many clinical trials have been conducted using a very limited number of participants or for an inadequate time period. There is no evidence available yet which supports the use of serrapeptase for inflammation or any other ailments.
Nattokinase vs Serrapeptase: Key Differences
Nattokinase and serrapeptase are enzymes researched for their potential effects on proteins in the body. Nattokinase is commonly studied in relation to fibrin and cardiovascular health, while serrapeptase has been investigated mainly for inflammation, swelling and mucus-related concerns. However, research findings and the strength of clinical evidence differ between the two.
| Feature | Nattokinase | Serrapeptase |
| Source | Traditionally obtained from natto, a fermented soybean food | Originally identified in bacteria associated with silkworms |
| Enzyme type | Fibrinolytic serine protease | Proteolytic enzyme |
| Main research focus | Fibrin breakdown, blood pressure and cardiovascular markers | Inflammation, swelling, pain and mucus |
| Proposed action | May help break down fibrin under certain conditions | Proposed to break down certain proteins involved in inflammatory processes |
| Clinical evidence | Human studies have explored blood pressure and cardiovascular markers, but evidence remains limited | Clinical studies exist, but evidence for many commonly promoted uses is limited and inconsistent |
| Key consideration | May affect blood clotting and interact with blood-thinning medicines |
Safety and effectiveness are not well established for many uses |
These enzymes are not interchangeable, and neither should be considered a proven treatment for a medical condition based on preliminary research alone.
Source and Enzyme Type
Nattokinase is a serine protease produced during the fermentation of soybeans to make natto, a traditional Japanese food. Serrapeptase, also called serratiopeptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme originally identified in bacteria associated with silkworms.
Both enzymes break down proteins, but they differ in origin, biological activity and the health applications being investigated.
Mechanism of Action
Nattokinase is studied for its fibrinolytic activity, meaning its potential to break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation. Researchers have also investigated its effects on blood pressure and other cardiovascular markers.
Serrapeptase is studied for its ability to break down certain proteins, with research exploring possible effects on inflammation, swelling and mucus. However, the proposed mechanisms do not necessarily translate into proven health benefits in humans.
Potential Benefits and Areas of Research
Research into nattokinase has focused on fibrin breakdown, blood pressure and cardiovascular health. Some human studies report changes in blood pressure, although further research is needed to establish its clinical benefits.
Serrapeptase has been investigated for inflammation, post-surgical swelling, pain and mucus-related conditions. However, evidence supporting many of these uses remains limited, and larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed.
Neither enzyme should replace prescribed treatment, and potential benefits should be evaluated in the context of available evidence and individual health risks.
Differences in Clinical Evidence
Nattokinase has been evaluated in human clinical trials, including studies examining blood pressure and cardiovascular risk markers. A systematic review and meta-analysis found some promising changes in blood pressure but noted limitations in the available evidence.
Serrapeptase also has published clinical research, but the evidence for many commonly promoted uses is limited by small studies, inconsistent findings and methodological concerns. Neither enzyme has sufficiently strong evidence to establish broad disease-prevention or treatment benefits.
Nattokinase vs Serrapeptase: What Does the Research Show?
Major differences exist in the case of nattokinase and serrapeptase concerning their origins, field of research, and impact on human health. These enzymes differ from each other despite being proteolytic in nature.
Studies involving nattokinase have been concerned more with fibrinolysis, clot mechanisms, and blood pressure. On the other hand, studies involving serrapeptase have been concerned more with inflammation, swelling, pain, and recovery after certain processes. This is a comparison of research interests and does not indicate superiority.
Research on Fibrin and Circulation
Nattokinase has demonstrated fibrinolytic activity in laboratory research. Small human studies have also examined changes in blood-clotting and fibrinolysis markers after supplementation. A systematic review of randomised controlled trials reported modest reductions in blood pressure, but the available studies do not establish that nattokinase prevents heart attacks, strokes or other cardiovascular events.
Serrapeptase is not as extensively studied for fibrin breakdown or cardiovascular outcomes. Its proposed effects on protein breakdown should not be interpreted as evidence that it improves circulation or prevents blood clots.
Research on Inflammation and Tissue-Related Effects
Serrapeptase has been studied for its potential role in reducing inflammation, pain and swelling, particularly after surgery. A systematic review and meta-analysis of five studies on wisdom-tooth removal found some improvement in mouth opening, but the evidence was insufficient to draw firm conclusions about several other outcomes.
Although laboratory studies have explored serrapeptase's protein-breaking and anti-inflammatory properties, these findings do not prove that oral supplements can break down scar tissue, remove arterial plaque or treat chronic inflammatory conditions in humans.
Nattokinase research focuses more on fibrinolysis and cardiovascular markers than on tissue-related inflammation. Its potential effects in these areas also require further clinical investigation. You can also explore our separate research pages on bromelain and curcumin to learn about other compounds investigated in scientific studies.
Limitations of Current Human Studies
Research on both enzymes has important limitations. Studies may involve small numbers of participants, short follow-up periods, different doses and formulations, or outcomes that measure biological markers rather than meaningful improvements in health.
For nattokinase, changes in fibrinolytic markers or blood pressure do not establish that supplementation prevents cardiovascular events. For serrapeptase, findings from selected surgical or inflammatory conditions cannot automatically be applied to other health concerns.
Comparing the Evidence
Nattokinase: The ability of nattokinase to affect fibrin in a laboratory environment is confirmed by laboratory data. Preliminary data on some cardiovascular biomarkers like blood pressure is available from limited human research. However, there is not enough scientific proof that justifies the usage of nattokinase as an aid in the treatment of blood clotting diseases or prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Serrapeptase: Use for inflammation, pain, and swelling has been examined in a number of studies on a clinical level. Nevertheless, systematic reviews have pointed out some weaknesses in the current body of research, including small sample size, methodological inconsistency, and absence of good quality evidence. Efficacy in many common claims remains unknown.
Differentiating between biochemical activity, changes in surrogate markers, and proven improvements in health outcomes is crucial when assessing either enzyme. An effective or safe supplement for humans is not always established by a promising lab result.
Safety, Side Effects and Potential Interactions
Nattokinase and serrapeptase are marketed as enzyme supplements, but their safety profiles are not fully established. Both may cause side effects, and interactions with medicines are a concern, particularly for people at risk of bleeding or those preparing for surgery. Evidence about their safety is more limited than is often suggested in supplement marketing.
Nattokinase Safety Considerations
Nattokinase may affect blood clotting and fibrin breakdown, potentially increasing bleeding risk in some circumstances. Extra caution is important for people taking anticoagulants or antiplatelet medicines, such as warfarin, apixaban or aspirin.
Possible side effects and long-term safety are not fully characterised. Do not use nattokinase as a substitute for prescribed blood-thinning medication, and seek medical advice before taking it if you have a bleeding disorder or a planned procedure.
Serrapeptase Safety Considerations
Serrapeptase may cause side effects, including stomach discomfort, nausea or skin reactions, although reliable data on their frequency are limited. Its potential effects on blood clotting also raise concerns about combining it with anticoagulants, antiplatelet medicines or other supplements that may increase bleeding risk.
Evidence on its long-term safety is limited. Consult a healthcare professional before use, particularly if you take regular medication or have a planned surgery.
Who Should Consult a Healthcare Professional Before Use?
Professional guidance is particularly important for people who:
- Take blood-thinning medicines, antiplatelet drugs or medication that affects blood pressure.
- Have a bleeding disorder, a history of blood clots or a cardiovascular condition.
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have a scheduled surgery or are recovering from a recent operation.
- Have allergies to soy or other supplement ingredients, or take multiple medications.
Important: Do not stop or replace prescribed medication with nattokinase or serrapeptase. A healthcare professional can assess potential interactions, individual risk factors and whether either supplement is appropriate. Seek urgent medical attention for unusual or persistent bleeding, black stools, vomiting blood or other signs of serious bleeding.
Can Nattokinase and Serrapeptase Be Taken Together?
Considering the dissimilar biological activity that these two substances supposedly offer, nattokinase and serrapeptase are sometimes combined for sale. The only problem is that there are no studies confirming the validity of combining them. There is insufficient scientific data as far as establishing any further effects or possible side effects when using them together.
Again other questions come along with their safety profile. In cases when serrapeptase is being studied for its anti-inflammatory action, it is possible it might be said that nattokinase might influence the clotting process. Bleeding, interaction and possible reactions issues may arise when these two substances are combined.
Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medication users, as well as individuals experiencing any bleeding disorder or previously scheduled for a surgical procedure, must consult their healthcare provider before taking any of the supplements mentioned above. The same condition applies to pregnant and breastfeeding women and all people with major health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is Nattokinase the same as Serrapeptase?
No. Nattokinase and serrapeptase are different enzymes. Nattokinase is produced during the fermentation of soybeans used to make natto, a traditional Japanese food. Serrapeptase is an enzyme originally identified in bacteria associated with silkworms. They differ in their origins and the areas of scientific research in which they have been studied
.
Q2. What is the main difference between Nattokinase and Serrapeptase?
The significant difference between both these proteolytic enzymes is their biological activity and field of research. Nattokinase is being studied for its fibrinolytic and cardiovascular activity, while serrapeptase is being studied mainly for its anti-inflammatory activity. Both the enzymes do not have enough scientific evidence for therapeutic use.
Q3. Is there more clinical research on Nattokinase or Serrapeptase?
They both lack scientific evidence, except that nattokinase has gained much research attention concerning fibrinolysis and blood pressure. On the other hand, serrapeptase has mostly been studied regarding inflammation and swelling. The difference in areas of study does not prove any superiority among the two enzymes.
Q4. Are Nattokinase and Serrapeptase safe to take?
Neither of these supplements is safe for everybody. There is always a risk of adverse effects and interactions need to be considered especially if one is taking any medications that impact blood clotting. Seek advice from your health care practitioner before using either supplement.
Q5. Can These Enzymes Be Used Together?
Nattokinase and serrapeptase are available in some combination supplements, but their combined use has not been adequately established as safe and effective for general health purposes. Taking them together should not be assumed to provide greater benefits and may raise concerns about bleeding or medication interactions. Consult a healthcare professional before combining them, and do not replace prescribed treatment with enzyme supplements.
Conclusion: Understanding the Differences Between Nattokinase and Serrapeptase
Nattokinase and serrapeptase are distinct enzymes with different sources and areas of scientific interest. Nattokinase is primarily researched for fibrin breakdown, blood pressure and cardiovascular markers, while serrapeptase has been investigated for inflammation, pain and swelling.
Although early findings offer areas for further investigation, laboratory activity and preliminary clinical results do not establish proven health benefits in humans. More high-quality studies are needed to clarify the effectiveness, appropriate use and long-term safety of both enzymes.
To explore the science in more detail, visit the SpikeDetox Research Library and read the dedicated resources on nattokinase research and other enzyme-related research. These resources can help readers explore published findings while considering the limitations of the available evidence.
Before using nattokinase or serrapeptase, consult a qualified healthcare professional, particularly if you take medication that affects blood clotting or have an existing medical condition. Neither supplement should replace prescribed medical treatment.