Policosanol is claimed to offer numerous health benefits, including:
How policosanol does so remains a bit unclear.
However, some studies find no such benefit.
Even so, the researchers found inconsistent findings and advised that additional human trials are needed.
Verywell / Getty Images
The most common include:
Policosanol may have anticoagulant (blood-thinning) properties.
This leads to side effects calleddyskinesias, a group of movement control disorders.
Who Should Not Take Policosanol?
There is no standard recommended dose of policosanol.
Many manufacturers recommend taking 10 milligrams (mg) once daily.
Studies have reported that doses of up to 10 mg twice daily are safe.
This means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Summary
Policosanol is a supplement mainly derived from sugar cane.
It is thought to lower cholesterol and have other health benefits as well.
Although some studies support the claims, the findings are not consistent.
Further quality research is needed.
If you’re considering using it, talk with your healthcare provider first.
Self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.
2022 Sep;183:106402. doi:10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106402.
A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
2024 Mar;80:103018. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2024.103018.
2021 Feb;87(2):352-374. doi:10.1111/bcp.14404.
Pandey S, Srivanitchapoom P.Levodopa-induced dyskinesia: clinical features, pathophysiology, and medical management.Ann Indian Acad Neurol.
2017 Jul-Sep;20(3):190-198. doi: 10.4103/aian.AIAN_239_17
