Serrapeptase and Nattokinase are systemic proteolytic enzymes used as dietary supplements. Serrapeptase (serratiopeptidase) is derived from the bacterium Serratia marcescens. Nattokinase is an enzyme isolated from natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. Both enzymes break down proteins (proteolysis) when absorbed into the bloodstream. This article explores the mechanisms, safety, and rationale for combining them.
Individual Mechanisms of Action
Serrapeptase primarily targets non-living protein-based tissue and inflammatory compounds. It digests inflammatory exudates, including fibrin, and breaks down mucus, which helps clear respiratory pathways. This proteolytic action reduces swelling and supports the body’s natural process for clearing debris from injured or inflamed areas. Serrapeptase is recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in conditions involving swelling and tissue damage.
Nattokinase exhibits strong, direct fibrinolytic capability, actively breaking down fibrin, a structural component of blood clots. It works by directly cleaving fibrin and increasing the body’s natural production of plasmin, the enzyme responsible for dissolving clots. Its primary function is to support healthy blood flow and circulation by lowering blood viscosity and preventing excessive fibrin accumulation. Nattokinase promotes overall cardiovascular health by reducing factors related to blood clotting.
Nattokinase may also influence blood pressure, with research showing a reduction in both systolic and diastolic measurements with regular supplementation. While Serrapeptase possesses some fibrinolytic activity, it is more recognized for its action on non-living tissue and inflammatory substances. This distinction highlights the different, yet related, roles each enzyme plays in systemic health.
Rationale for Combined Use
Combining Serrapeptase and Nattokinase creates a broad-spectrum systemic enzyme therapy. Although both are proteolytic enzymes, their specific targets and strengths are complementary, leading to a synergistic effect. This combined approach aims to provide comprehensive support for both inflammatory issues and circulatory health.
Nattokinase is potent at addressing blood flow issues due to its powerful fibrin-degrading activity. Serrapeptase is highly effective at breaking down the protein scaffolding accompanying inflammation, such as dead tissue, inflammatory proteins, and excess mucus. Combining them manages the dual concerns of excessive fibrin formation in the bloodstream and the localized accumulation of inflammatory debris.
Nattokinase ensures a healthy, fluid cardiovascular environment, while Serrapeptase helps clear protein waste and reduces swelling caused by inflammatory processes. This dual action provides a more complete systemic cleansing effect than either enzyme offers alone. The combination supports tissue repair, healthy circulation, and a balanced inflammatory response simultaneously.
Safety Profile and Contraindications
The primary safety consideration when taking Serrapeptase and Nattokinase together is their shared potential to reduce blood clotting. Both enzymes exhibit fibrinolytic activity, and their combined effect is greater than either one alone, increasing the risk of bleeding. Users may notice minor side effects such as increased bruising or prolonged bleeding from minor cuts.
Individuals taking prescription blood thinners (anticoagulants like Warfarin) or antiplatelet medications should not combine these supplements without direct medical supervision. The cumulative blood-thinning effect can dangerously increase bleeding risk. A consultation with a healthcare provider is necessary to assess the individual risk profile before starting a combined regimen.
Anyone scheduled for surgery, including dental procedures, must discontinue the use of both Serrapeptase and Nattokinase well in advance. It is advised to stop taking these enzymes at least one to two weeks before any planned operation to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure. Individuals with a history of hemorrhagic disorders, bleeding diathesis, or peptic ulcers should also avoid these supplements. Regular monitoring is important for those with pre-existing conditions or those on other medications that affect blood clotting.
Optimal Timing and Administration
To ensure Serrapeptase and Nattokinase are absorbed for systemic effects, they must bypass the stomach’s digestive function. Supplements should be taken on an empty stomach: at least 30 to 60 minutes before a meal or two hours after a meal. Taking them with food would cause the enzymes to be used for digestion, rendering their systemic purpose ineffective.
The enzymes must be protected from the harsh, acidic environment of the stomach to reach the small intestine intact for absorption. For this reason, most high-quality supplements are formulated with an enteric coating. This coating resists dissolution by stomach acid and only breaks down in the higher pH environment of the intestine, maximizing enzyme absorption.
Serrapeptase activity is measured in Serrapeptase Units (SUs), with typical doses ranging from 10,000 SU to 30,000 SU per capsule, often taken multiple times daily. Nattokinase activity is measured in Fibrinolytic Units (FUs), with a common daily dosage around 2,000 FU. Since the effective dosage varies significantly based on the individual and health goal, a professional should be consulted to determine the most appropriate regimen and unit count.