What is lumbrokinase good for?

Short answer: Lumbrokinase has potential benefits for cardiovascular health.

Lumbrokinase is what is known as a fibrinolytic enzyme, meaning that it has the ability to break down fibrin, the main building block that holds blood clots together and allows clots to form. It is very similar in function to its "cousins" serrapeptase and nattokinase, which also help dissolve fibrin.

Discovery and function


In a similar fashion to serrapeptase, which was first discovered in the digestive tract of silkworms, lumbrokinase was first discovered and extracted from the digestive tract of earthworms.

In 1991, after almost a decade of research, Dr. Hisashi Mihara and other scientists in Japan managed to extract a group of fibrinolytic enzymes from earthworms belonging to the species Lumbricus rubellus, after which lumbrokinase is named. They discovered that these enzymes are capable of degrading several types of fibrin, replicating the effects of existing thrombolytic drugs typically used for dissolving blood clots.

However, many of these existing drugs, such as urokinase and streptokinase, were known to have dangerous side effects, including the risk of severe bleeding and potentially fatal blood loss. Lumbrokinase by contrast focuses entirely on fibrin, and does not cause excessive bleeding, making it a very solid alternative.

When should I take lumbrokinase?

Short answer: Lumbrokinase is best taken on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours since the last meal and at least 30 minutes before the next meal.

Like serrapeptase, it is generally advised to take lumbrokinase between meals, at least two hours since the last meal and at least 30 minutes before the next meal, in order to enhance its absorption and efficacy.

What should I avoid taking lumbrokinase with?

Short answer: Avoid taking lumbrokinase supplements at the same time as blood thinners.

Avoid lumbrokinase with blood-thinning medication


Due to its blood-thinning and anticoagulant effect, it is advisable to not take lumbrokinase in conjunction with any blood-thinning medication, as the potential combined result could be excessive.



Lumbrokinase data sources & further reading


Last updated by Asklepios on 30th January, 2025

Remember

While every effort has been made to ensure that the above data is accurate, said accuracy can never be guaranteed. The information provided is not medical advice, it is not intended to cover all possible interactions or adverse effects, and neither is it a substitute for the expertise of professional healthcare practitioners. You are always encouraged to do your own research, and to consult with your trusted doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements.


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