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Policosanol
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Policosanol is a mixture of long-chain alcohols (waxes), including octacosanol, extracted from natural sources.
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Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
Our proprietary “Star-Rating” system was developed to help you easily understand the amount of scientific support behind each supplement in relation to a specific health condition. While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.
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This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
Intermittent Claudication | 10 mg twice per day | Supplementing with policosanol may reduce platelet stickiness and improve walking capacity. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
High Triglycerides | 10 to 20 mg daily | Policosanol may be helpful in normalizing triglyceride levels. |
| ||
| Used for | Amount | Why |
|---|---|---|
High Cholesterol | Refer to label instructions | Policosanol may affect cholesterol levels by inhibiting cholesterol production by the liver but most research has casted doubt on its effectiveness.
|
| ||
Also indexed as:
- policosanol,
- polycosanol
About this treatment
How to Use It
Most studies have used 5 to 10 mg of policosanol taken twice per day.
Where to Find It
The long-chain alcohols found in policosanol are present in many foods of plant origin. Supplemental policosanol is typically extracted from sugar cane or beeswax.
Possible Deficiencies
Policosanol is not an essential nutrient, so no deficiencies are possible.
Last Review: 05-11-2011
Copyright © 2011 Aisle7. All rights reserved. www.Aisle7.net
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2011.
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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