The word cholesterol has become synonymous with poor health. Indeed, one does not typically hear
word used, or see it printed, unless it points to yet another distressing fact -- that high cholesterol is number one factor for coronary heart disease, and number one cause of heart attacks[i]. However, cholesterol is, in itself, not a negative thing. On contrary, cholesterol plays a vital role in forming cell membranes, regulating hormones, insulating nerves, and more. The problem with cholesterol therefore lays not in cholesterol itself, but amount of cholesterol present in bloodstream. For most Americans who talk and read about this subject, scenario almost always involves too much cholesterol, or condition known as hypercholesterolemia.
When there is too much cholesterol in blood, it cannot easily dissolve, and thus cannot effectively be transported to cells by carrier called low-density lipoprotein (LDL). This can create a build-up of LDL cholesterol (a.k.a. “bad cholesterol”), and start to interfere with arteries that transport blood to heart and brain. Both a stroke and a heart attack are most severe manifestations of LDL cholesterol build-up, and main reason why so many people are seeking ways to reduce LDL build-up in their bloodstream[ii].
However, reducing cholesterol has been fraught with challenges. Though reducing or eliminating certain foods from diet is a necessary first step for most individuals, some who suffer from hypercholesterolemia require medical interventions to immediately begin lowering their risk of heart attack or stroke. As such, dozens of cholesterol-lowering statin drugs are currently on market, and while some people have experienced relief due to their use, there are side effects that cause concern, including nausea, diarrhea, muscle tenderness, and increased liver enzymes[iii]. The out-of-pocket costs of these statin drugs can also be cost prohibitive for those not covered by a comprehensive drug plan.
However, a natural product called policosinol is generating an unusual amount of attention – both positive and negative – from medical community in light of its purported cholesterol lowering capacity. Derived from wax of sugarcanes and honeybees, policosinol is said by some to reduce cholesterol, offer no known side effects, be safe in high doses, increase blood flow, reduce platelet clumps, and prevent atherosclerosis (plaque buildup on artery walls)[iv].
Studies have been conducted on policosinol efficacy, and there is some empirical research evidence that supports it as a high LDL cholesterol remedy. A 2002 study by researchers at University of Bonn reviewed 60 clinical trials involving 3000 patients, and concluded with cautious optimism that policosinol is a promising alternative to cholesterol lowering stain drugs, and thus warrants further study[v].
However, those poised to buy policosinol and lower their cholesterol should approach with caution; and this is message voiced by those who are less than enthusiastic about policosinol’s emergence as something of a wonder cure.
