Policosanol, mainly derived from sugarcane, is marketed as a supplement that can lower cholesterol. Research is conflicting on whether it is helpful for this purpose, according to a study published in the May 17, 2006, issue of "Journal of the American Medical Association." Consult a qualified health care provider before taking policosanol supplements.
Purpose
Heiner K. Berthold and his colleagues in the 2006 JAMA study evaluated the effects of policosanol from sugarcane on cholesterol levels. They attempted to replicate results of more than 80 studies indicating that 5 mg to 40 mg of policosanol per day from sugarcane lowers cholesterol levels as well as statin medications do. The problem with these studies is that nearly all were conducted by one research institute. Finding solutions for high cholesterol is important because the disorder increases the risk of coronary heart disease, the leading cause of death in industrialized countries. Some patients cannot take statins.
Potential
Research supporting the use of policosanol found that the substance reduces low-density lipoprotein cholesterol --- the so-called bad cholesterol --- by 10 percent to 30 percent, as reported by the University of California, Berkeley, Wellness Guide to Dietary Supplements. These studies, conducted by a single research group in Cuba, also indicate that policosanol raises high-density lipoprotein cholesterol --- the good cholesterol --- by about 10 percent on average.
Considerations
The 2006 JAMA research did not record significant results from policosanol as compared with placebo. The parameters included blood levels of triglycerides and LDL, HDL and total cholesterol, along with other blood fat measurements. Two of the treatment groups were taking 40 mg to 80 mg per day, considered a high dose, and this did not make any difference.
Types
Policosanol supplements are available that come from not only sugarcane but also beeswax, wheat germ and rice bran. European studies have not found benefits on cholesterol levels from policosanol derived from wheat germ or rice, cautions the University of California, Berkeley, Wellness Guide to Dietary Supplements.
Safety
If you'd like to try taking policosanol supplements, the substance is generally safe and does not tend to cause side effects. The authors of the JAMA study call the safety profile excellent of the sugarcane policosanol in their research. In some studies, individuals taking policosanol have experienced a rash, fatigue, headache, excessive urination and sleeping problems, reports Drugs.com.
