What is Red Yeast Rice Extract (RYR)?
Red yeast rice is the product of yeast (Monascuspurpureus) grown on rice, and is served as a dietary staple in some Asian countries. It contains several compounds collectively known as monacolins, substances known to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. One of these, “monacolin K,” is a potent inhibitor of HMG-CoA reductase, and is also known as mevinolin or lovastatin (Mevacor), a drug produced by Merck & Co., Inc). Red yeast rice extract has been sold as a natural cholesterol-lowering agent in over the counter supplements, such as CholestinTM (Pharmanex, Inc). Red yeast rice has been used as a food flavoring agent, but also as a traditional medicine to promote circulation and heart health. Modern science suggests that red yeast rice may be useful for these purposes. Research suggests that red yeast rice contains mevinolin – a chemical thought to help maintain cholesterol levels already in the normal range and to promote cardiovascular health. The use of red yeast rice in China was first do
Red yeast rice extract is derived from red yeast (Monascus purpureus) grown on rice. It is served as a dietary staple in some Asian countries, with typical consumption ranging from 14 grams to 55 grams a day. It is used as a food flavoring agent and as a traditional medicine to promote circulation and heart health. The use of red yeast rice in China was first documented in the Tang Dynasty in 800 A.D. In that text, red yeast rice was reported to be a mild aid for gastric problems (indigestion and diarrhea), better blood circulation and spleen and stomach health. The supplement is native to China and Asia and has been used for over three thousand years in traditional Chinese medicine systems. The health information has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA and is not based on scientific evidence from U.S. sources. This product is intended to support general well being and not intended to treat disease.
