Policosanol
Policosanol is a unique natural product derived from sugar cane wax
and beeswax: It has proved effective at reducing cholesterol levels
and for some individuals may be a reasonable natural alternative to
the commonly prescribed "statin-type" cholesterol-lowering drugs.
The studies showed that policosanol not only reduced cholesterol
levels, but also had positive effects on other cardiac risk
factors, through actions such as reducing platelet "clumping" and
inhibiting the development of atherosclerosis. The authors
concluded that policosanol is "a very promising phytochemical
alternative to classic lipid-lowering agents such as statins."
Some studies indicated that policosanol is not only equal to, but
may possibly even be somewhat more effective than statins or
fibrates in lowering total and LDL cholesterol and increasing
"good" cholesterol, or HDL. One study showed that patients taking
the standard daily 10 mg dose of policosanol experienced a 17% drop
in total cholesterol, a 25.6% drop in LDL cholesterol, and a 28.4%
rise in HDL cholesterol. These percentages are equal to results
obtained with statin medications.
Some studies confirmed the cholesterol-lowering effects of
policosanol in specific groups, including post-menopausal women,
the elderly, and people who have both diabetes and heart disease.
In addition, policosanol was effective in treating intermittent
claudication, a condition in which poor circulation in the legs
causes severe leg pain during exercise. Because policosanol reduces
the tendency of blood to clot by reducing the "stickiness" of blood
platelets, the tiny particles involved in clotting, it may help
prevent cardiovascular disease in a manner similar to aspirin.
During the research, study participants reported very few side
effects. Because of this, policosanol may require less monitoring
with blood tests than statin medications do. Although it appears
there are no major side effects with policosanol, some people have
reported weight loss, rashes, migraines, insomnia or drowsiness,
irritability, dizziness, upset stomach, and nose and gum bleeding.
General Interaction
Because policosanol can thin the blood as much as aspirin, if you
are taking blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin) or NSAIDs
such as ibuprofen or naproxen, consult your health care provider
before taking policosanol.
There are no known interactions with nutrients or foods.
Cautions
Do not take policosanol if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Although very rare, it is theoretically possible that people who
are allergic to bee stings or have a food sensitivity to sugar cane
might risk side effects from policosanol.
Policosanol is usually taken once or twice a day. Some nutritional
supplement manufacturers combine policosanol with other
heart-healthy substances such as Coenzyme Q10 and antioxidants.
