January 22, 2026
What is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase is a powerful proteolytic enzyme derived from natto, a traditional Japanese food made by fermenting soybeans. It has been linked to several health benefits, particularly for cardiovascular health due to its valued fibrinolytic activity.
Health Benefits:
Supports Cardiovascular Health
One of the most well recognised benefits of nattokinase is its ability to support cardiovascular health. Research has repeatedly shown that nattokinase has strong fibrinolytic/antithrombotic activities, with studies evidencing that this enzyme can directly degrade fibrin to dissolve thrombus. This antithromotic activity is key to maintaining a healthy heart as thrombosis is a common contributor to various cardiovascular diseases including myocardial infarction, heart failure and ischemic strokes.
Research has also found that nattokinase may effectively help to manage the progression of atherosclerosis and reduce both the thickness of the carotid artery intima-media and the size of the carotid plaque.
Supports Blood Pressure Maintenance
Studies suggest that nattokinase may support healthy blood pressure maintenance. One study found that, in participants with either pre-hypertension or stage 1 hypertension, nattokinase supplementation resulted in decreased systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. This indicates that nattokinase may help to naturally treat and reduce the risk of hypertension.
History:
Natto, the food that nattokinase is derived from, is a popular food in Japan where it has been consumed for more than 1,000 years. Natto has a distinctive sticky texture and pungent smell. The enzyme nattokinase was not identified until the 1980's and following its discovery it quickly gained interest for its impressive health benefits.
Typical Use:
Nattokinase can be obtained through a diet that incorporates natto, however many choose to supplement nattokinase in order to maximise the health benefits they can receive from this powerful enzyme.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6043915/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213453024001903
