Nattokinase, Serrapeptase & Lumbrokinase Australia: Enzyme Complex Supplement Guide (2026)
Nattokinase, serrapeptase, and lumbrokinase are three enzyme-based supplements that have grown significantly in popularity among health-conscious Australians. Each comes from a distinct biological source — fermented soy, silkworm bacteria, and earthworms respectively — and they are increasingly combined into a single enzyme complex supplement. This guide covers what each enzyme is, where it comes from, why they are combined, and what to look for when buying an enzyme complex supplement in Australia.
What Is Nattokinase?
Nattokinase is an enzyme extracted from Natto — a traditional Japanese food made from soybeans fermented with the bacteria Bacillus subtilis natto. The fermentation process produces nattokinase as a by-product, and it was first isolated and identified by Japanese researcher Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi in 1980.
Nattokinase is measured in FU (Fibrinolytic Units) — a unit that describes the enzyme's activity level rather than its weight. This is an important distinction: when comparing nattokinase supplements, FU activity is the meaningful measure, not mg. Our Nattokinase 4,000 FU, Serrapeptase & Lumbrokinase Enzyme Complex delivers 4,000 FU of nattokinase activity per serving alongside the other enzymes in the formula.
What Is Serrapeptase?
Serrapeptase (also spelled serratiopeptidase) is a proteolytic enzyme — meaning it breaks down proteins. It was originally isolated from the bacteria Serratia marcescens, which lives in the digestive tract of the silkworm. The silkworm uses this enzyme to dissolve its cocoon when emerging as a moth. Serrapeptase has been used in complementary medicine in Europe and Japan for decades.
Like nattokinase, serrapeptase is measured by enzyme activity units rather than weight. Quality serrapeptase supplements state the SPU (Serratiopeptidase Units) or SU activity on the label, not just the milligram weight of the compound.
What Is Lumbrokinase?
Lumbrokinase is a group of fibrinolytic enzymes extracted from earthworms — specifically from the species Lumbricus rubellus and related earthworm species. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, where earthworm preparations have a long history of use. Modern lumbrokinase supplements use standardised enzyme extracts derived from earthworm processing, not raw earthworm material.
Lumbrokinase is the most potent of the three fibrinolytic enzymes by unit activity in published research comparisons, though direct comparisons are complicated by different measurement systems across the three enzymes.
Why Are These Three Enzymes Combined?
Nattokinase, serrapeptase, and lumbrokinase each come from different biological sources and act through different mechanisms to break down proteins and support circulatory wellness. Combining all three in a single enzyme complex provides a broader enzyme activity profile than any single enzyme alone. This multi-enzyme approach has become increasingly popular among Australians taking enzyme supplements as part of a comprehensive daily wellness stack.
Enzyme Activity Units — What to Look for on the Label
Unlike most supplements where mg per serving is the primary measure, enzyme supplements are measured by their activity level — because an enzyme's effectiveness depends on how active it is, not how heavy it is. Key measurements to look for:
- Nattokinase — measured in FU (Fibrinolytic Units); 2,000–4,000 FU is the common range in supplements
- Serrapeptase — measured in SPU or SU (Serratiopeptidase Units); look for activity units, not just mg
- Lumbrokinase — measured in FU or per-unit activity; check that activity is stated, not just weight
Always look for enzyme supplements where the label states the activity level of each enzyme — not just the total weight of the formula.
Important Considerations for Enzyme Supplements
Nattokinase, serrapeptase, and lumbrokinase are systemic enzymes — meaning they are intended to be taken on an empty stomach (30–60 minutes before meals, or 2 hours after) so they are absorbed intact into the bloodstream rather than being used to digest food in the gut. Always follow the directions on the product label.
These supplements should not be taken by individuals on blood-thinning medications or those with clotting disorders without prior consultation with a healthcare professional. Anyone preparing for surgery should discontinue fibrinolytic enzyme supplements well in advance and consult their doctor.
What to Look for When Buying Enzyme Complex Supplements in Australia
- Activity units stated for each enzyme — FU for nattokinase and lumbrokinase, SPU/SU for serrapeptase
- Enteric-coated or delayed-release capsules — protects enzymes from stomach acid so they can be absorbed intact
- Free from fillers and binders — enzyme formulas should be clean
- GMP-certified manufacturing
- Australian supplier — fast delivery, TGA-compliant labelling
Our Enzyme Complex Range
- Nattokinase 4,000 FU, Serrapeptase & Lumbrokinase Enzyme Complex | Health & Heal — triple enzyme formula with 4,000 FU nattokinase
Frequently Asked Questions
Are nattokinase supplements safe?
Nattokinase is generally well tolerated in healthy adults when used as directed. It should not be used by individuals taking warfarin, aspirin, or other anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications without medical supervision, as it may potentiate their effects. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you have a bleeding disorder, cardiovascular condition, or are taking any prescription medications.
Is serrapeptase the same as serratiopeptidase?
Yes — serrapeptase and serratiopeptidase are different names for the same enzyme. The two terms are used interchangeably on supplement labels.
Should I take enzyme supplements with food?
For systemic (circulatory) activity, enzyme supplements are typically taken on an empty stomach. Follow the specific directions on the product label. Taking with food may reduce systemic absorption as the enzymes are used for digestion instead.
Is this product suitable for vegetarians?
Lumbrokinase is derived from earthworms, making it unsuitable for strict vegetarians or vegans. Check the full ingredient and suitability information on the product label.
Is fast delivery available across Australia?
Yes — our enzyme complex supplements are available with fast dispatch across Australia from Health and Heal Supplements.
Always read the label and follow the directions for use. These products are complementary medicines and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are taking blood-thinning medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.