Cholesterol Facts

• Cholesterol is a fat-like substance made in the liver. The body also uses dietary cholesterol, which comes from the food we eat. Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in particles called lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoprotein that transport cholesterol throughout the body. These are low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. The term "bad" cholesterol refers to LDL cholesterol, while "good" cholesterol is associated with HDL cholesterol. When cholesterol blood levels are too high, there can be a plaque buildup in the arterial walls. Over time, this can cause atherosclerosis or arteries to harden. An elevated LDL cholesterol level can increase the risk for heart problems.
  
  

Cholesterol Medications

• Prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins, can be effective treatments for this condition. However, some people can experience side effects such as muscle pain when using these medications. For these patients, herbal supplements like red yeast rice may be an alternative option. Guggul and artichoke leaf extract may also be good choices for patients who may simply prefer to use a natural herbal remedy.
  
  

Red Yeast Rice

• In Chinese medicine, red yeast rice was used for conditions that include indigestion, blood and stomach ailments. Red yeast rice is a by-product of the fermentation process that uses the yeast substance (Monascus purpureus). It contains ingredients called monacolins, which can inhibit the production of cholesterol.
  Currently, red yeast rice is available as an herbal supplement for cholesterol problems. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine reports that a randomized study on 62 patients suggests that red yeast rice may be useful for people with high cholesterol who cannot tolerate prescribed statin medications.
  
  

Guggul

• Guggul, a gum resin from India's mukul tree, has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. It contains the active ingredients called guggulsterones, which are thought to be responsible for reducing LDL and total cholesterol levels. A clinical study conducted in the United States showed a decrease in total cholesterol levels in the test subjects.
  
  

Other Herbs

• Other herbs can be useful to treat high cholesterol. Some of these include garlic, artichoke leaf extract, alfalfa, green tea and psyllium. In particular, artichoke leaf extract may be beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels. The University of Reading reports that research conducted on a small group of 75 subjects seems to show that artichoke leaf extract can reduce cholesterol.
  
  

Side Effects

• Although red rice yeast and guggul may be herbal supplements used to lower cholesterol, there are some adverse reactions associated with their use. Some people using red yeast rice may experience side effects like headaches, gastrointestinal problems and muscle pain. Pregnant women and people with liver or kidney disease should not use red yeast rice.
  There are also some cautions associated with guggul. Patients who use thyroid medication or high blood pressure medicine should avoid this herbal supplement.
  
  

Consideration

• While herbs may help in reducing cholesterol level, lifestyle and dietary changes are also necessary to control cholesterol levels. Likewise, herbal supplements may be alternative options if you cannot tolerate certain prescribed cholesterol medications, but be aware of the potential side effects or contraindications associated with some of these commercial products. Before using any over-the-counter product or herbal supplement, check with your doctor.