Policosanol is a mixture of alcohols isolated and refined from sugar cane. The main ingredient in Policosanol is octacosanol, but as the name implies, Policosanol is actually a mixture of many (hence the prefix "poli") alcohols, including hexacosanol, triacontanol and others. As a nutritional supplement, Policosanol has been associated with lower levels of LDL or "bad" cholesterol. The level of LDL in a person's blood is linked to atherosclerosis (narrowing of the blood vessels due to build up of lipids, sometimes known as "hardening of the arteries"). Having a high level of LDL cholesterol puts a person at risk of having coronary heart disease. Patients who have taken Policosanol have also shown increased levels of high-density lipoprotein or HDL, the "good" cholesterol. HDL actually helps carry cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver, where it is processed and excreted from the body. A relatively high proportion of HDL in your total cholesterol level may be beneficial in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.

Policosanol has also been associated with lower improved coronary artery health.[1] In clinical studies, Policosanol has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and neuroprotective properties."[2] With so many uses, a wealth of clinical research and a history of safe and effective use in patients, it is easy to see why Policosanol is one of the most exciting nutritional finds in some time.