Nattokinase vs Aspirin: Natural or Pharmaceutical Blood Thinners?
Nattokinase and Aspirin are two common blood thinners, each with advantages and disadvantages. Both types can provide significant benefits for cardiovascular health.
So, should we use Nattokinase or Aspirin to support treatment for the body? This article will assess the pros and cons of each type and help you gain appropriate knowledge to consider which one to prioritize for your body.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- Nattokinase is a natural enzyme known for its effective ability to break down blood clots.
- Aspirin is a synthetic pharmaceutical drug commonly used to thin the blood andreduce the risk of blood clot formation.
- Nattokinase and Aspirin have different origins, mechanisms of action, side effects, and effectiveness.
- The combination of Nattokinase and Aspirin will depend on many factors to ensure safety.
- In addition to Nattokinase and Aspirin, other options are available for blood thinning.
What is Nattokinase and How Does It Benefit as a Blood Thinner?
Nattokinase is a natural enzyme found in natto, a traditional Japanese food. It can dissolve blood clots by breaking down fibrin, a protein that contributes to clot formation. Due to this ability, it is used to manage cardiovascular diseases, helping to reduce blood viscosity and the risk of clot formation in arteries and veins [1].
There are several benefits of Nattokinase as a blood thinner:
- Prevention of blood clot formation: Nattokinase aids in breaking down existing blood clots and inhibiting the formation of new ones. Blood clots may lead to heightened risk of cardiovascular issues such as heart attacks and strokes.
- Improvement of blood circulation: Nattokinase enhances blood flow by clearing debris within the circulatory system, facilitating smoother blood circulation.
- Support for cardiovascular health: By reducing blood clots and improving circulation, Nattokinase can contribute to overall heart health.
What is Aspirin and How Does It Benefit as a Blood Thinner?
Aspirin is a pharmaceutical drug containing the active ingredient acetylsalicylic acid. It works by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). This enzyme is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins, compounds that cause inflammation and pain in the body [2].
When aspirin inhibits COX, the production of prostaglandins decreases, leading to reduced constriction of blood vessels and decreased blood clot formation.
As a result, blood becomes less viscous, facilitating smoother blood flow through blood vessels and reducing the risk of events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Some other benefits of aspirin as a blood thinner include:
- Blood clot prevention: Aspirin helps prevent blood clot formation by inhibiting the clotting process.
- Reduction of heart attack and stroke risk: By thinning the blood and reducing inflammation, aspirin may lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes in individuals at high risk.
- Prevention of cardiovascular issues: Aspirin is commonly used to prevent cardiovascular diseases, but it should always be taken under the guidance of a doctor due to the potential for side effects.
The Comparison Between Nattokinase and Aspirin
Although Nattokinase and Aspirin have effects that can help thin the blood and help blood circulate better in the body. But both substances have distinct characteristics. You can understand better through the following comparison table:
|
Nattokinase |
Aspirin |
|
|
Mechanism of Action |
Nattokinase works by directly breaking down existing blood clots. This makes Nattokinase a more effective choice for individuals at risk of clot formation. |
Aspirin works by inhibiting the production of certain enzymes that promote blood clot formation. |
|
Source and Usage |
Often extracted from natto, a traditional Japanese food. Nattokinase can be used as a dietary supplement or in functional food products. |
A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to reduce pain, fever, and thin the blood. Aspirin is available both by prescription and over-the-counter. |
|
Effectiveness |
Improves blood circulation Reduces the risk of blood clot-related cardiovascular issues. |
Blood thinning Reduces the risk of cardiovascular issues Reduces pain and inflammation. |
|
Side Effects |
Some reports suggest that using Nattokinase may cause headaches, diarrhea, or allergic reactions. |
May cause gastric irritation, stomach pain, and discomfort. |
|
Drug Interactions |
Nattokinase may interact with some other cardiovascular medications. |
A total of 343 drugs are known to interact with Aspirin. |
|
Safety |
Limited long-term studies on the adverse effects of using Nattokinase. |
Harmful to the body when used in large doses or for prolonged periods. |
Nattokinase vs Aspirin: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between Nattokinase and Aspirin depends on various factors, including individual health conditions, specific treatment requirements, and other side effects and treatment preferences.
If you prefer a natural treatment method and do not want to use synthetic drugs, then Nattokinase would be a suitable choice.
Nattokinase can thin the blood by breaking down existing blood clots in the circulatory system. Also, Nattokinase can support cardiovascular health and improve blood circulation. Nattokinase is less likely to cause side effects than Aspirin, making it a safer natural therapy option.
On the other hand, Aspirin is not a natural substance and may cause more side effects than natural products.
Aspirin primarily works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, reducing blood clotting ability. It is often used to prevent heart attacks and strokes.
You can understand that Aspirin is a medication, so it will be more effective in treatment. At the same time, Nattokinase is just a dietary supplement, so it only serves to improve and support without any therapeutic effect.
However, if you want to have a suitable choice, you can seek advice from a doctor to receive the most scientific and safe guidance. Especially when you have cardiovascular diseases, it's essential to consult a doctor rather than deciding on your own which one to use.
Can You Use Nattokinase to Support Aspirin Effects?
In the interaction report between Nattokinase and aspirin, no interaction was found between aspirin and nattokinase [3]. However, this does not guarantee that no interaction exists.
Nattokinase may cause excessive bleeding when combined with some types of blood-thinning medications. Using nattokinase may also enhance the effects of aspirin, leading to unwanted bleeding.
Nattokinase may lower blood pressure. For individuals with low blood pressure or those taking blood pressure medications, it's essential to discuss the use of nattokinase with a doctor before taking it [4].
Therefore, using Nattokinase to support the effectiveness of Aspirin is not safe. You need to seek advice from a doctor or healthcare professional for more appropriate guidance.
Other Blood Thinners You Can Choose
Besides Nattokinase and Aspirin, you can consider several other types of blood thinners, including medications such as heparin, warfarin (also known as Coumadin), aspirin, and clopidogrel [5]. However, choosing the appropriate blood thinner should be based on your specific health condition and the guidance of your doctor.
Conclusion
In comparing Nattokinase and Aspirin regarding their roles as blood thinners, the choice depends on the individual's needs and health status. Nattokinase, a natural enzyme extracted from natto, is believed to be safer and has fewer side effects than aspirin.
Meanwhile, Aspirin, a synthetic pharmaceutical drug, is widely used not only as a blood thinner but also for pain relief, reducing fever, and preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Therefore, depending on the specific health condition and needs, the choice between these two medications should be carefully discussed with a doctor to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Related Article:
- Can You Take NAC Nattokinase and Bromelain Together?
- Nattokinase And Vitamin K2: Are They The Same Thing?
- 7 Best Nattokinase Supplements for Cardiovascular Health
References
- [1] Weng Y, Yao J, Sparks S, Kevin Yueju Wang. Nattokinase: An Oral Antithrombotic Agent for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease. International journal of molecular sciences. 2017;18(3):523-523. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms18030523
- [2] Awtry EH, Loscalzo J. Aspirin. Circulation. 2000;101(10):1206-1218. doi:https://doi.org/10.1161/01.cir.101.10.1206
- [3] Drugs.com. Published 2024. Accessed May 7, 2024. https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/aspirin-with-nattokinase-243-0-3655-0.html?professional=1
- [4] Jensen GS, Lenninger M, Ero MP, Benson KF. Consumption of nattokinase is associated with reduced blood pressure and von Willebrand factor, a cardiovascular risk marker: results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter North American clinical trial. Integrated blood pressure control. 2016;Volume 9:95-104. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/ibpc.s99553
- [5] Blood Thinners. Medlineplus.gov. Published 2022. Accessed May 7, 2024. https://medlineplus.gov/bloodthinners.html
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