Korean Red Ginseng Combined With Nattokinase Ameliorates Dyslipidemia and Aortic Plaque in High-Cholesterol-Diet Rabbits

This animal study tested whether combining red ginseng with nattokinase produces synergistic benefits against atherosclerosis in cholesterol-fed rabbits.

Both red ginseng alone and the combination reduced triglycerides and aortic plaque area, but only the combination significantly lowered hepatic cholesterol and CETP activity — leading the authors to suggest an additive effect on lipid metabolism.

This is preliminary preclinical work in a small animal model, testing a combination supplement. Rabbit atherosclerosis models translate poorly to humans, and the well-designed human nattokinase trial found no benefit on atherosclerosis. Combining two supplements adds marketing appeal but no clinical evidence.

We rate the evidence limited. It is exploratory animal research with no demonstrated human relevance — part of the broad, unproven nattokinase supplement literature.