Interest in natural, enzyme-based supplements that help support circulation and cardiovascular resilience is growing rapidly across the U.S.: about 5.5% of adults around 14 million Americans have been diagnosed with heart disease, including roughly 5% of those aged 20 and older (about 1 in 20) who have coronary artery disease (CAD), while many more live with underlying atherosclerosis. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death, claiming approximately 920,000 lives in 2023, with 371,500 deaths attributed to CAD alone .
This blog post explores the mechanisms, benefits, and differences between these enzymes, helping you make informed decisions for your heart and overall wellness.
Natural Enzymes: What Is Nattokinase?
Origin and Background
Nattokinase is a naturally occurring enzyme derived from natto, a traditional Japanese food made by fermenting soybeans with the probiotic bacterium Bacillus subtilis. Though natto has been a staple in Japanese diets for centuries, nattokinase was isolated in 1987 by Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi, who identified its remarkable ability to support the body’s natural fibrin-dissolving activity, a key function for maintaining healthy circulation.
How Nattokinase Supports Cardiovascular Health
Nattokinase belongs to a class of enzymes known as fibrinolytic enzymes, which help the body in breaking down excess fibrin, a protein involved in clot formation. When unchecked, fibrin can build up in arteries, affecting blood flow and increasing cardiovascular strain.
Key Benefits of Nattokinase:
- Supports healthy blood flow by aiding the body’s natural regulation of blood viscosity
- Promotes the natural breakdown of fibrin, contributing to clot prevention
- Encourages normal blood pressure through support of nitric oxide release and arterial elasticity
-
Helps manage LDL cholesterol levels and supports arterial clarity
These attributes make nattokinase a well-regarded enzyme for individuals looking to naturally support their heart and circulatory wellness.
Natural Enzymes: What Is Serrapeptase?
Source and Discovery
Serrapeptase also known as serratiopeptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme first discovered in the digestive system of silkworms, where it helped them break down tough mulberry leaves. Today, it is ethically and safely produced via microbial fermentation. With a long-standing history in Japan and Europe, serrapeptase is valued for its ability to support the body’s response to inflammation and tissue buildup.
How Serrapeptase Works
Serrapeptase assists the body in naturally degrading non-living tissue, including scar tissue, mucus, and arterial debris. Unlike conventional anti-inflammatories, it doesn’t interfere with prostaglandin production, thus, it tends to avoid common gastrointestinal discomforts.
Cardiovascular Support Benefits of Serrapeptase:
- Supports the body’s inflammatory response, contributing to arterial health
- Assists in clearing arterial plaque and dead tissue, helping to maintain vascular flexibility
- Encourages healthy circulation by aiding the natural resolution of swelling
- May ease chest tightness linked to inflammatory congestion in the cardiovascular system
Because of these properties, serrapeptase is often used to support natural vascular cleansing, especially in those concerned with chronic arterial buildup or stiffness.
Nattokinase vs. Serrapeptase: A Powerful Cardiovascular Duo
When it comes to natural enzyme support for heart and vascular wellness, nattokinase and serrapeptase complement one another in meaningful ways. While each functions differently, their combined actions can help support the body's natural processes for circulatory clarity and arterial resilience.
Key Differences at a Glance
|
Feature |
Nattokinase |
Serrapeptase |
|
Source |
Fermented soy (natto) |
Originally from silkworms (now fermented) |
|
Primary Function |
Supports fibrin breakdown |
Supports inflammation reduction and tissue clearance |
|
Best Known For |
Encouraging natural blood flow |
Supporting plaque removal and tissue repair |
|
Traditional Use |
Cardiovascular support |
Relief of swelling, pain, and vascular congestion |
How They Work Together
When used in combination, nattokinase and serrapeptase may offer synergistic support for a cleaner, more flexible circulatory system:
- Nattokinase helps the body naturally manage fibrin and maintain normal clotting balance
-
Serrapeptase supports the breakdown of non-living tissues like arterial plaque and scar buildup
Together, they assist the body in keeping arteries clear, resilient, and functioning efficiently, especially beneficial for individuals managing high blood pressure, cholesterol, or a hereditary predisposition to cardiovascular concerns.
Safety Considerations
While both enzymes are generally well-tolerated when taken as directed, they can enhance the effects of blood-thinning medications or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning any enzyme supplement regimen, especially if you are taking anticoagulants or have a planned surgery.
What the Science Says: Clinical Evidence
While more comprehensive clinical trials are ongoing, existing research points to promising roles for both nattokinase and serrapeptase in supporting cardiovascular wellness:
Nattokinase Research Highlights:
- A 2008 study in Hypertension Research found a significant reduction in blood pressure following 8 weeks of nattokinase supplementation (2,000 FU/day)
-
A 2015 study in Scientific Reports demonstrated nattokinase’s potential to support the body's natural anti-thrombotic and lipid-balancing processes
Serrapeptase Research Highlights:
- A 2013 review in the International Journal of Surgery recognized serrapeptase’s role in reducing post-operative inflammation and encouraging healing
- A 2016 study in the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences supported its potential to assist the body in degrading biofilms and arterial debris
Although more large-scale trials are needed, these findings continue to shape how these enzymes are viewed in heart health strategies.
Who Should Consider These Enzymes?
Ideal Candidates:
- Adults over 40 managing cardiovascular wellness
- Individuals with a family history of heart disease or stroke
- Those supporting healthy blood pressure and arterial flexibility
-
People seeking natural alternatives to promote circulation
Common Use Cases:
- As part of a preventive heart health regimen
- Post-surgical support, when approved by a healthcare provider
- In combination with diet and lifestyle improvements
Natural Support for Cardiovascular Health
Nattokinase and serrapeptase offer multi-pathway support for those seeking a natural, research-supported approach to heart health. From helping the body manage fibrin and circulation to clearing arterial plaque and calming inflammation, these enzymes deliver layered benefits that align with a proactive cardiovascular lifestyle.
If you're considering enzyme-based supplements as part of your heart wellness journey, nattokinase and serrapeptase may provide the support your body needs, when used responsibly and under expert supervision.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.