A blend of waxy alcohols from sugar cane.
Why it’s used: Studied for its role in normal cholesterol levels.
Policosanol is a natural mixture of long-chain waxy alcohols, usually extracted from the wax that coats sugar cane. Its main component is octacosanol, with smaller amounts of related alcohols such as triacontanol, hexacosanol and tetracosanol. Similar compounds are found in beeswax, rice bran and wheat germ, but sugar cane is the most common source in supplements.
Policosanol first attracted attention through a series of studies from Cuba that reported changes in cholesterol levels. Later independent trials, including a large randomised trial published in JAMA in 2006, did not find meaningful differences compared with placebo. EFSA reviewed the evidence in 2011 and concluded that a link with normal cholesterol had not been established.
So the honest picture is mixed. Researchers have studied policosanol for its role in normal cholesterol levels, but the results have not held up consistently. It is usually sold in small tablets or capsules, often in heart-focused formulas alongside plant sterols, red yeast rice or other ingredients, and labelled as policosanol, sugar cane wax extract or octacosanol.
2 findings behind this ingredient. Hover a card for the detail and the source.
Meta-analysis of 22 studies with 1,886 people. Policosanol reduced total and LDL cholesterol and increased HDL; triglycerides and weight did not change, and effects were larger in trials from Cuba.
Meta-analysis of 52 randomised trials (4,596 patients), 29 of them on policosanol. Policosanol 5 to 40 mg a day reduced LDL by 23.7% versus 0.1% on placebo.
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The evidence is mixed. Early Cuban studies reported benefits, but independent trials, including a 2006 JAMA trial, found no meaningful effect compared with placebo, and EFSA did not authorise a cholesterol claim. Researchers continue to study it, but results are not consistent.
Most policosanol is extracted from sugar cane wax. It is a mixture of long-chain alcohols, mainly octacosanol. Similar compounds occur in beeswax, rice bran and wheat germ, and some products use these sources instead, so check the label.
Speak to your GP or pharmacist first, and never stop or reduce a prescribed statin on your own. Policosanol may also affect platelets, which matters if you take aspirin, clopidogrel or warfarin alongside your cholesterol medicine.
Information only, not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
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