What Are Nattokinase and Serrapeptase?
Before considering whether to combine these powerful enzymes, it is important to understand what each one does individually. Both are proteolytic, meaning they break down proteins, but they originate differently and have distinct primary mechanisms.
Understanding Nattokinase
Nattokinase is an enzyme extracted from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish. Its primary action is fibrinolytic, meaning it helps break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation. By promoting the body's natural fibrinolytic process, nattokinase supports healthy blood flow and circulation, which is why it is often sought for cardiovascular health. It also decreases platelet aggregation, further contributing to its blood-thinning effect. Due to its potency, nattokinase can increase the risk of bleeding, a critical factor for anyone considering its use.
Understanding Serrapeptase
Serrapeptase, or serratiopeptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme isolated from the bacteria Serratia marcescens, found in the intestines of silkworms. It gained attention for its anti-inflammatory, mucolytic (mucus-thinning), and analgesic effects. Serrapeptase works by breaking down non-living, protein-based substances such as dead tissue, cysts, mucus, and inflammatory proteins. This mechanism is thought to support healing and reduce swelling. It is often used to support respiratory health, manage scar tissue, and aid in wound healing.
The Case for Combination: Synergistic Potential
When taken together, nattokinase and serrapeptase are believed to offer synergistic benefits, with each enzyme complementing the other's action. This is why many commercially available supplements combine them.
- Comprehensive Enzymatic Action: Since both are proteolytic but target different proteins, their combined use may provide a more comprehensive approach to managing unwanted protein build-up in the body. Nattokinase focuses on fibrin, while serrapeptase targets inflammatory proteins and damaged tissue.
- Enhanced Circulatory and Sinus Health: The combination is often marketed for supporting both circulatory and sinus health. Nattokinase's role in breaking down fibrin can improve blood flow, while serrapeptase's mucolytic action can help clear mucus, addressing different aspects of conditions like chronic sinusitis.
- Anti-inflammatory and Anti-fibrotic Effects: Combining the enzymes can result in more powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects, potentially assisting in the reduction of inflammation and breaking down fibrous tissue. This is a promising area of research, particularly for conditions involving fibrosis.
The Critical Warning: Significant Risks and Contraindications
Despite the potential benefits, combining nattokinase and serrapeptase carries significant risks, primarily related to increased bleeding. It is crucial to understand and adhere to these serious safety warnings.
Increased Bleeding Risk
The most significant risk of taking both nattokinase and serrapeptase together is their combined blood-thinning effect. Nattokinase directly affects fibrinolysis, while serrapeptase also has the potential to interfere with blood clotting processes. Taking them together multiplies this risk, increasing the likelihood of excessive bleeding or bruising, especially in sensitive individuals.
Dangerous Drug Interactions
Both enzymes have severe interactions with prescription anticoagulant (blood thinner) and antiplatelet medications.
- Anticoagulants: Medications like warfarin (Coumadin) and heparin can have their effects dangerously amplified by nattokinase and serrapeptase. The combination increases the risk of hemorrhage, with reported fatalities associated with combining these supplements with blood thinners.
- Antiplatelet Drugs: Taking nattokinase with aspirin can significantly increase the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. The risk of bruising or bleeding is also heightened when combined with other antiplatelet drugs.
- Other Supplements: Caution is advised when combining these enzymes with other natural supplements that have blood-thinning effects, such as fish oil, garlic, and turmeric, as this further increases the risk of bleeding.
Contraindications and Precautions
Medical professionals advise caution for several groups of people. Individuals with known bleeding disorders should avoid these supplements. Furthermore, it is essential to discontinue use at least two weeks before any surgical procedure due to the heightened risk of bleeding. The safety of these supplements during pregnancy and lactation is not established, and they should be avoided by these individuals.
Comparison of Nattokinase and Serrapeptase
To highlight their differences and overlaps, here is a comparison table outlining the primary characteristics of each enzyme.
| Feature | Nattokinase | Serrapeptase |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Fermented soybeans (natto) | Bacteria in silkworm intestines |
| Primary Action | Fibrinolytic (breaks down fibrin and helps prevent clots) | Proteolytic, anti-inflammatory, mucolytic (breaks down non-living proteins, mucus, dead tissue) |
| Targeted Use | Cardiovascular health, circulation, blood flow | Inflammation, swelling, pain, sinus issues, scar tissue |
| Bleeding Risk | High, especially with concurrent blood thinners | Moderate, especially with concurrent blood thinners |
| Primary Synergy | Supports fibrinolysis for circulation | Reduces inflammation and mucus; complements fibrinolytic action |
| Delivery Method | Enteric-coated capsules to protect from stomach acid | Enteric-coated capsules to protect from stomach acid |
Considerations Before Combining
Before starting any supplement regimen involving nattokinase and serrapeptase, follow these guidelines:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: This is the most crucial step. A doctor can assess your medical history, existing medications, and overall health to determine if this combination is safe for you.
- Follow Dosing Instructions: If your doctor approves, follow the dosing on the product label precisely. The strength of these enzymes is measured in Fibrinolytic Units (FU) for nattokinase and Serrapeptase Units (SPU) or other units for serrapeptase, and can vary between brands.
- Empty Stomach for Absorption: Both enzymes should be taken on an empty stomach (typically 30 minutes before a meal or two hours after) to ensure they are not degraded by digestive enzymes.
- Monitor for Side Effects: Be vigilant for signs of excessive bleeding, such as easy bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in the urine or stool. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider immediately.
Conclusion
The combination of nattokinase and Serrapeptase is a powerful one, with potential synergistic benefits for circulation, inflammation, and breaking down problematic protein and tissue build-up. However, this potential is accompanied by a significant and potentially dangerous risk of increased bleeding, particularly when combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. Due to these serious safety concerns, self-prescribing this combination is highly ill-advised. A thorough consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and ensure appropriate medical monitoring. For individuals on blood-thinning medication or with bleeding disorders, this combination should be avoided completely.
