Octacosanol

What does it do? Octacosanol is a waxy substance naturally present in some plant oils and is the primary component of the sugar cane extract called policosanol.

Octacosanol-containing wheat germ oil was investigated decades ago as an exercise performance–promoting (ergogenic) agent. These preliminary studies found that octacosanol had promising effects on endurance, reaction time, and other measures of exercise capacity.¹ In another trial, 1,000 mcg per day of octacosanol for eight weeks was found to improve grip strength and visual reaction time, but it had no effect on chest strength, auditory reaction time, or endurance.²

Where is it found? Octacosanol is a waxy substance found in vegetable oils and sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum). Another compound, called policosanol, contains a large amount of octacosanol, along with several similar compounds.

Octacosanol has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Athletic performance
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

How much is usually taken? When octacosanol is taken as part of policosanol, 5–10 mg of policosanol is taken twice each day with meals. For exercise performance, 1 mg per day of octacosanol has been used.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Long-term trials in humans using amounts up to 20 mg per day have not shown any negative effects.³

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with octacosanol.

References:

1. Cureton TK. The physiological effects of wheat germ oil on humans. In Exercise. Illinois: Charles C Thomas, 1972, 296–300.

2. Saint-John M, McNaughton L. Octacosanol ingestion and its effects on metabolic responses to submaximal cycle ergometry, reaction time and chest and grip strength. Int Clin Nutr Rev 1986;6(2):81–7.

3. Pons P, Rodriguez M, Robaina C, et al. Effects of successive dose increases of policosanol on the lipid profile of patients with type II hypercholesterolaemia and tolerability to treatment. Int J Clin Pharm Res 1994;14:27–33.

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The information presented in Healthnotes 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 December 2003.