Policosanol

Also known as octacosanol.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Policosanol?

In plain words

Policosanol is a blend of wax-derived substances, often made from sugarcane. The body absorbs limited amounts and can break its components down into fatty acids. Researchers study whether it changes cholesterol levels and how blood cells called platelets form clots. Findings on cholesterol benefits are inconsistent, and long-term safety evidence is limited.

Technical definition

Policosanol is a mixture of long-chain primary aliphatic alcohols obtained from plant waxes, commonly sugarcane wax; octacosanol is typically its main constituent rather than an exact synonym. Its molecular mechanism is not established, although proposed effects on hepatic cholesterol synthesis involve AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and regulation of HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol production. It is marketed in the United States as a dietary supplement and is not FDA-approved as a cholesterol-lowering drug.

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Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.