Written by the Plenthera team (orthomolecularly trained). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: April 30, 2026.
Lumbrokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme from earthworms — used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries, now isolated and standardized. It is the most potent natural fibrinolytic enzyme per milligram. At Plenthera, you will find premium lumbrokinase for those seeking maximum fibrinolytic action. With the same caution as nattokinase: always consult a doctor if you are using blood thinners.
Lumbrokinase vs Nattokinase
| Aspect | Lumbrokinase | Nattokinase |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Earthworms | Japanese natto fermentation |
| Potency per mg | Higher | Standard |
| Price | Premium | Standard |
| Vegan | No — animal-derived | Yes — soy fermentation |
| Clinical research | More limited | More extensive |
What is lumbrokinase?
Lumbrokinase is a fibrinolytic enzyme mixture from earthworms (especially Lumbricus rubellus and Eisenia fetida). It has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (Di Long), and is now modernly standardized for cardiovascular applications.
Lumbrokinase was isolated from earthworms in China in the 1990s — a traditional TCM ingredient called Di Long. Science shows that earthworms have a complex fibrinolytic enzyme system, presumably evolved to break down blood clots from prey.
Compared to nattokinase, lumbrokinase is more potent per milligram, but is produced by fewer manufacturers — and is therefore more expensive. The premium brand is Boluoke (Canadian, standardized for activity). For those who want maximum fibrinolytic action — under medical consultation — lumbrokinase is the premium choice over nattokinase.
The same caution as with nattokinase applies: if you are taking blood thinners, before surgery, or if you have clotting disorders, DO NOT use without a doctor's consultation. See our NVWA guideline for supplementation with medication use.
Science, fibrinolysis and EFSA status
Scientific research into nattokinase focuses on cardiovascular applications — fibrinolysis, blood pressure, fibrinogen levels, vascular function. Clinical research in humans shows positive results in small-scale studies, often with dosages of 100-200 mg per day.
Important: there are NO health claims for nattokinase recognized by EFSA. We therefore do not make literal claims about its effects. Nattokinase is a food supplement, not a medicine.
CRUCIAL: if you are using blood thinners (warfarin, NOACs, aspirin), before surgery (avoid 2 weeks prior), if you have clotting disorders or bleeding diathesis: DO NOT use without medical consultation.
The lumbrokinase forms at Plenthera
Lumbrokinase 20-40 mg capsules
Standard premium dosage.
Boluoke (premium brand)
Canadian standardized formula.
Lumbrokinase + nattokinase
Premium combination of two fibrinolytics.
How to use lumbrokinase?
Simple basic approach for lumbrokinase/nattokinase:
- Take between meals for maximum systemic effect.
- Standard 100-200 mg/day (2,000-4,000 FU).
- When using blood thinners: consult a doctor beforehand.
- Before surgery: stop at least 2 weeks prior.
- In case of doubt or medical context: consult a doctor.
Myths and misunderstandings about lumbrokinase
Myth 1: "Nattokinase is a natural aspirin."
Half true — both have fibrinolytic / antithrombotic effects, but different mechanisms. Nattokinase is not a substitute for aspirin in a medical context.
Myth 2: "Everyone can safely take nattokinase."
Incorrect. With blood thinners, before surgery, during pregnancy or with bleeding diathesis: avoid or consult a doctor.
Myth 3: "The more nattokinase, the better the cardiovascular effect."
No additional effect has been demonstrated above 4,000 FU/day, and the bleeding risk increases.
Myth 4: "Eating fresh natto provides enough nattokinase."
For a wholefood approach: yes, partly. For a systemic clinical effect: the dosage from food is usually too low — supplements are more effective.
Combining Lumbrokinase with other supplements
Nattokinase is often combined for cardiovascular issues. Popular combinations:
- Omega 3: cardiovascular cluster with EFSA claim.
- Q10: mitochondrial and cardio.
- Magnesium: cardio mineral.
- Turmeric: inflammation modulation.
- Vitamin K2: relevant — affects clotting, in a different direction than nattokinase. Discuss with a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nattokinase?
Fibrinolytic enzyme from Japanese natto.
How does nattokinase work?
Breaks down fibrin (blood clot protein), supports natural fibrinolysis.
How much nattokinase per day?
100-200 mg, 2,000-4,000 FU.
When to take nattokinase?
Between meals for systemic effect.
Can nattokinase be taken with blood thinners?
NOT without medical consultation — bleeding risk.
What is FU in nattokinase?
Fibrinolytic Units — unit for fibrinolytic activity.
Nattokinase for circulation?
Clinically studied. EFSA claim not recognized.
Difference between nattokinase and aspirin?
Different mechanisms — not interchangeable in a medical context.
Does nattokinase have side effects?
Possible: bleeding tendency at high doses, especially with other antithrombotics.
Vegan nattokinase?
Yes — from soy fermentation, plant-based.
Sources
- EFSA Regulation (EU) 432/2012 — no overarching enzyme claims; individual claims limited.
- Sumi H. et al., "A novel fibrinolytic enzyme (nattokinase) in the vegetable cheese Natto", Experientia (1987).
- Chen H. et al., "Nattokinase: A Promising Alternative in Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases", Biomark Insights (2018).
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Lumbrokinase is a food supplement, not a medicine. In case of doubt or if you are using medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.