Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase

Justin Eaton Vitamins & Supplements
January 28th, 2026 6 minute read

Listen to article

Audio generated by DropInBlog's Blog Voice AI™ may have slight pronunciation nuances. Learn more

Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase
What is Lumbrokinase?
What is Nattokinase?
Similarities Between Lumbrokinase and Nattokinase
Key Differences in Source and Composition
Mechanisms of Action
Potential Applications Explored in Research
Safety Considerations from Studies
Efficacy Comparisons in Available Literature
Additional Considerations in Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase
Conclusion: Understanding Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase
Sources

Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase

When comparing lumbrokinase vs nattokinase, these two enzymes are frequently discussed in the context of natural supplements that support cardiovascular health through their fibrinolytic properties. Fibrinolysis refers to the breakdown of fibrin, a key protein in blood clot formation. Both enzymes originate from natural sources and have been the subject of scientific research examining their potential roles in circulation and clot management.

What is Lumbrokinase?

Lumbrokinase consists of a group of proteolytic enzymes derived from earthworms, particularly species such as Lumbricus rubellus. It has a history of use in traditional practices, especially in parts of Asia. Research has explored its ability to support fibrinolysis by converting plasminogen to plasmin and directly acting on fibrin. For example, a multicenter randomized controlled trial examined the use of oral lumbrokinase enteric-coated capsules for secondary prevention of ischemic stroke. Another study protocol outlined a multicenter randomized controlled trial assessing lumbrokinase combined with aspirin for acute ischemic stroke. A pilot study investigated improved myocardial perfusion in stable angina pectoris with oral lumbrokinase.

What is Nattokinase?

Nattokinase is a serine protease enzyme produced during the fermentation of soybeans by Bacillus subtilis (our nattokinase supplements are soy-free, made with fermented chickpeas), resulting in the traditional Japanese food known as natto (learn more about nattokinase vs natto here). It has been incorporated into dietary habits for centuries in Japan. Studies have investigated its fibrinolytic effects, including its stability in the gastrointestinal tract after oral intake. A review discussed nattokinase as a potential agent in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, highlighting its fibrinolytic activity. A randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of nattokinase supplementation on blood pressure in subjects with pre-hypertension or stage 1 hypertension. Additionally, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessed nattokinase supplementation and its impact on cardiovascular risk factors, including blood pressure.

Toku Flow is a daily nattokinase supplement from Toku Health with 10,800 FU for natural, multi-functional cardiovascular support. It combines nattokinase with vitamin K2 and beta-glucan to support balanced cholesterol, optimal blood pressure, and more without the side effects of pharmaceuticals.

Similarities Between Lumbrokinase and Nattokinase

In the comparison of lumbrokinase vs nattokinase, both enzymes exhibit fibrinolytic activity and are studied for their potential to support healthy blood flow and improving circulation by breaking down fibrin. They are available as dietary supplements and are measured in fibrinolytic units (FU). Research indicates that both can influence aspects of circulation, with oral administration being a common route explored in studies. Both have been examined in contexts related to cardiovascular support, and they share a natural, non-synthetic origin.

Key Differences in Source and Composition

A primary distinction in lumbrokinase vs nattokinase lies in their sources: lumbrokinase is extracted from earthworms, while nattokinase comes from fermented soybeans (at Toku, we make our nattokinase supplements with fermented chickpeas instead so they are soy-free). Lumbrokinase comprises multiple enzymes, forming a complex mixture, whereas nattokinase is a single serine protease. These differences affect production methods, with nattokinase benefiting from scalable fermentation processes and lumbrokinase involving extraction from biological material.

Toku Flow 10,800 FU Nattokinase Supplement | Soy Free Powder

$179.97

High-Potency Nattokinase Supplement for Cardiovascular Health & CirculationToku Flow delivers 10,800 FU of clinical-grade nattokinase per daily sachet, paired with Vitamin K2 (MK-7) and oat beta-glucan for comprehensive cardiovascular support. Sourced from chickpea fermentation (soy-free), third-party tested, no fillers.… read more

Mechanisms of Action

Research on lumbrokinase vs nattokinase shows variations in their approaches to fibrinolysis. Lumbrokinase can act directly on fibrin and support plasminogen activation without broadly affecting other clotting factors in many studies. Nattokinase cleaves fibrin directly and enhances plasmin formation, with evidence of stability during digestion for systemic effects. Both promote the dissolution of fibrin, though their specific pathways and sensitivities differ based on in vitro and clinical observations.

Potential Applications Explored in Research

Studies have investigated various applications for these enzymes. For lumbrokinase, research includes its evaluation in ischemic stroke prevention and angina pectoris. For nattokinase, investigations cover blood pressure management and broader cardiovascular risk factors. Ongoing or planned trials, such as those examining lumbrokinase in specific conditions, continue to add to the body of evidence.

Safety Considerations from Studies

Research on both enzymes notes considerations related to bleeding risk, particularly when used alongside anticoagulants or in individuals with bleeding tendencies. Studies emphasize the importance of professional medical guidance. A safety and tolerability study for a lumbrokinase preparation in healthy adults found it tolerable at tested doses. Nattokinase studies generally report it as well-tolerated in the populations examined, though individual responses vary.

Efficacy Comparisons in Available Literature

Discussions of lumbrokinase vs nattokinase often address relative potency, with some sources suggesting differences in fibrinolytic strength, though direct head-to-head human trials using standardized measures remain limited. Nattokinase has accumulated more published human clinical data in areas like blood pressure and cardiovascular markers (learn more about nattokinase benefits here). Lumbrokinase studies tend to focus on specific clot-related or stroke contexts. Half-life estimates in some reviews indicate similarities, around several hours for both after oral intake.

Additional Considerations in Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase

Further aspects in lumbrokinase vs nattokinase include production scalability and dietary compatibility. Nattokinase's fermentation origin makes it suitable for plant-based preferences, while lumbrokinase may appeal in cases of soy sensitivity (not an issue with our nattokinase supplements - they are made soy-free, with fermented chickpeas). Absorption and duration of effects are topics in comparative discussions, though more standardized research is needed for definitive conclusions.

Conclusion: Understanding Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase

The comparison of lumbrokinase vs nattokinase highlights two distinct yet related fibrinolytic enzymes with roots in traditional practices and ongoing scientific interest. Research provides insights into their sources, mechanisms, and studied applications, with nattokinase featuring in more extensive human trials for certain cardiovascular parameters and lumbrokinase explored in targeted clot and stroke-related contexts. As investigations continue, the body of evidence evolves to inform understanding of these natural options (learn more about nattokinase benefits for men here). Individuals considering either should consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance based on current studies.