Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Policosanol is a mixture of long-chain alcohols originally derived from sugar cane wax, but also found in other plant sources. It has been marketed as a supplement for cardiovascular health, particularly for reducing cholesterol and supporting conditions like arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Early clinical studies, mostly from Cuba (where policosanol was originally developed), suggested that policosanol could lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol, which would theoretically slow the progression of arteriosclerosis. These studies reported significant improvements in lipid profiles and some markers of arterial health.

However, subsequent studies conducted outside of Cuba, especially in the United States and Europe, have largely failed to replicate these positive results. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have concluded that there is little reliable evidence to support significant cholesterol-lowering or anti-arteriosclerotic effects of policosanol in populations outside of the original Cuban trials. The reasons for these discrepancies are unclear, but may relate to differences in the formulation, patient populations, or potential publication bias.

Overall, while there is a plausible mechanism of action and some early (but controversial) scientific support, the current consensus is that the evidence for policosanol as a treatment for arteriosclerosis is weak. Most major health organizations do not recommend it for this purpose. Thus, the use of policosanol for arteriosclerosis is justified by limited and inconsistent scientific evidence, meriting a low evidence rating.

More about policosanol
More about Arteriosclerosis

Other ingredients used for Arteriosclerosis

Other health conditions supported by policosanol

Products containing policosanol

Nature's Sunshine Cholester-Reg II