Lumbrokinase: Earthworms With Blood Thinning Properties?

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Lumbrokinase is an enzyme extract derived from earthworms, traditionally used in Asian medicine. It has gained attention for its effects on circulation and clot breakdown. Researchers have studied its role in supporting cardiovascular function, especially in people with clotting disorders or at risk for poor blood flow. This article reviews the current understanding of lumbrokinase supplements and how they may support vascular health.

What Is Lumbrokinase?

Lumbrokinase is a group of enzymes taken from earthworms, most often the species Lumbricus rubellus. These enzymes were first studied after researchers looked into traditional Chinese medicine, where earthworm extracts had been used for issues tied to blood flow and inflammation. Scientists later discovered that lumbrokinase helps break down fibrin, a protein that forms when the body creates blood clots. Over time, too much fibrin can lead to thicker blood and slower circulation.

What makes lumbrokinase different is how it works with the body instead of against it. It doesn’t forcefully dissolve clots like some prescription drugs. Instead, it supports the body’s natural ability to clear out excess fibrin without stopping the normal clotting needed to heal cuts or injuries. Because of this balance, it’s often used by people looking to support healthy circulation or manage conditions related to thick or sticky blood.

Lumbrokinase supplements are taken to support heart and blood vessel health. Some people use them to improve blood flow, reduce clot risk, or address symptoms tied to poor circulation like cold hands and feet. Since the enzymes are protein-based, they’re usually packaged in enteric-coated capsules. This helps them pass through the stomach and reach the small intestine, where they can be absorbed into the bloodstream and start working.

What Are the Benefits of Lumbrokinase?

Supports healthy blood flow: Lumbrokinase helps break down excess fibrin, a protein that can make blood thicker and harder to circulate. By clearing out this buildup, it supports smoother blood flow through the vessels.
Promotes cardiovascular health: When blood flows more freely, the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump it throughout the body. This may help reduce stress on the heart and lower the risk of blockages in the arteries.
Helps manage clotting risk: Lumbrokinase has been used by people who are prone to clot formation or have circulation issues. It supports the body’s natural process of keeping blood at the right thickness without stopping normal clotting when needed. [PMC3876685]
May reduce inflammation: Some research shows that lumbrokinase may lower inflammation in blood vessels and surrounding tissues. This can be helpful in conditions where inflammation plays a role in poor circulation or vessel damage.
Supports recovery after vascular events: People recovering from blood clots, stroke, or deep vein thrombosis sometimes use lumbrokinase as part of their long-term care plan. It may help the body gradually break down leftover fibrin deposits and restore normal blood flow. [PMC9851794]
Improves delivery of oxygen and nutrients: With better circulation, more oxygen and nutrients can reach the cells and tissues that need them. This may lead to more stable energy levels and better tissue repair, especially in areas affected by poor blood supply.
May support brain health: Improved blood flow to the brain can help with mental clarity and focus. Some people report feeling more alert or less foggy when taking lumbrokinase regularly.
May help reduce risk of silent clots: Lumbrokinase may help prevent small clots that form without symptoms but can still affect circulation over time. Keeping blood moving smoothly may reduce this hidden risk.
Used in chronic infection support protocols: Some functional medicine practitioners include lumbrokinase in protocols for chronic infections. The idea is that breaking down fibrin layers may help expose hidden pathogens and improve immune response.
May reduce leg swelling and discomfort: People with sluggish circulation in the legs may notice less swelling or heaviness. This could be linked to improved blood flow and lower fibrin buildup in the veins.

Is Lumbrokinase Safe?

Lumbrokinase is generally considered safe when used at recommended doses and under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It has been studied for its gentle action on the body’s clotting system, with a low risk of bleeding compared to stronger pharmaceutical blood thinners. Most people tolerate it well, with few reported side effects. Because it supports natural fibrin breakdown without blocking normal clot formation, it may offer a balanced option for those concerned about circulation. As with any supplement that affects blood flow, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before starting, especially for people taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications.

Medication Interactions with Lumbrokinase

Warfarin (Coumadin): Lumbrokinase may increase the blood-thinning effect of warfarin, which can raise the risk of bleeding. People taking both may need regular blood tests and close monitoring by their healthcare provider.
Aspirin: Since aspirin already affects how platelets stick together, combining it with lumbrokinase could lead to more bruising or bleeding. This is especially important for people who take aspirin daily for heart health.
Clopidogrel (Plavix): This medication keeps platelets from clumping, and lumbrokinase may add to that effect. When taken together, the blood may become too thin, which can increase the chance of unwanted bleeding.
Heparin: Heparin is a strong anticoagulant often used in hospitals, and pairing it with lumbrokinase could make blood thinning too strong. This combination should only be used with medical supervision.
Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran: These drugs already reduce the risk of clots, and lumbrokinase may add to that effect. Using them together could increase the risk of bleeding, especially without regular check-ins with a healthcare provider.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): These common pain relievers can irritate the stomach and affect how platelets work. If used with lumbrokinase, they may raise the chance of gastrointestinal bleeding or bruising.
Fish oil or omega-3 supplements: Fish oil has mild blood-thinning effects on its own. When combined with lumbrokinase, the effect may be stronger, so it’s best to be cautious and let a healthcare provider know about both.

Supplement Interactions with Lumbrokinase

Fish oil (omega-3 fatty acids): Fish oil can thin the blood slightly, especially at higher doses. When combined with lumbrokinase, it may increase the chance of bruising or slow clotting after cuts or injuries.
Vitamin E: In large amounts, vitamin E may interfere with how the blood clots. Taking it with lumbrokinase could make the blood thinner than intended, which may raise the risk of bleeding.
Garlic supplements: Garlic has natural compounds that can prevent platelets from clumping. When used alongside lumbrokinase, this effect may be stronger and could lead to easier bruising or bleeding gums.
Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo is often taken to support memory, but it also affects platelet function. Adding lumbrokinase on top of that may increase the risk of nosebleeds or other signs of thin blood.
Turmeric (curcumin): Turmeric may have mild blood-thinning effects, especially when taken in concentrated supplement form. Used with lumbrokinase, it could make clotting slower, which might be a concern before surgery or dental work.
Ginger supplements: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, but it can also affect blood clotting. Taking it with lumbrokinase may increase the risk of bleeding or easy bruising in some people.
Bromelain: This enzyme from pineapple is sometimes used to support digestion or reduce swelling, and it also has fibrin-dissolving activity. When taken with lumbrokinase, the two may have a stronger combined effect on blood thinning, which may not be safe for everyone.

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Lumbrokinase by Allergy Research Group

Provides the earthworm-derived fibrinolytic enzyme lumbrokinase in delayed-release DRcaps™.*

Supports healthy coagulation of blood within normal levels*
May enhance fibrinolytic activity*
Supports healthy blood viscosity within normal levels*
Thrombolytic activity shown only in the presence of fibrin*
DRcaps™ are clinically shown to protect their contents from harmful gastric acids which may denature substances such as enzymes*

Suggested Use:
As a dietary supplement, 1 or 2 capsules in the morning, 1 or 2 capsules in the afternoon, and 2 capsules at bedtime, or as directed by a healthcare practitioner. Take with 8-10 oz of water, with or without food.

Amount Per 2 Capsule Serving
Lumbrokinase … 32mg
(600, 000 IU)

Other Ingredients: Rice dextrin, medium chain triglycerides, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, water, gellan gum.

With DRcaps™ Delayed Release capsules. DRCAPS and DRCAPS and Design are trademarks used under license.

Use under medical supervision if taking anticoagulant drugs. Contraindicated in any conditions associated with bleeding.

Keep in a cool, dry place, tightly capped.

Food First!

Although this article discusses supplements in detail, don’t forget that we are absolutely committed to the “Food First” approach to nutrition. When it comes to your health, the totality of your eating habits far surpasses the impact of individual nutrients or any single supplement you consume. Even though this article doesn’t delve into the broader picture of your overall diet, it’s crucial to keep this element at the forefront of our minds. Food is one of the “Pillars of Health”. Your food needs to provide all the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytochemicals to nourish your body systems down to the cellular level.

Food choices, rather than supplements, are the most critical factors for a healthy gut microbiome. These trillions of tiny inhabitants in your gut affect your brain waves; they orchestrate your immune system. They possess the power to create molecules that can switch genes on or off and are even capable of synthesizing neurotransmitters. Opting for organic foods and steering clear of plastic packaging (including those labeled BPA-free) is a smart move to limit toxin exposure. The sum of all these parts leads to a powerful conclusion: the ultimate key to your health lies in the quality and balance of the food you consume. Supplements are secondary.

To Sum It Up

Lumbrokinase supplements support healthy circulation by breaking down excess fibrin and helping the blood flow more freely. They may reduce clotting risk, promote heart and vessel health, improve oxygen delivery, and ease symptoms linked to poor circulation. Some people also use them to support recovery after vascular events or as part of protocols for chronic infections. When used as intended, lumbrokinase offers a gentle way to help maintain blood flow and overall cardiovascular function.

This Article is Not a Substitute for Medical Advice

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Supplement Sciences does not provide medical care and cannot ensure the safety or effectiveness of any product for your personal use. Always consult your physician before starting any supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a serious health condition such as cancer, liver disease, or kidney disease. Dietary supplements are not designed to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.