What is red yeast rice?

Red yeast rice contains the yeast, monascus purpureus. The yeast is grown on rice. It has been shown to have some cholesterol-lowering effects. Like most herbal supplements, it has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness.

Red yeast rice is the product of yeast (Monascus purpureus) 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). However, there has been legal and industrial dispute as to whether red yeast rice is a drug or a dietary supplement, involving the manufacturer, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the pharmaceutical industry (particularly producers of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor prescription drugs or "statins").

The use of red yeast rice in China was first documented in the Tang Dynasty in 800 A.D. A detailed description of its manufacture is found in the ancient Chinese pharmacopoeia, Ben Cao Gang Mu-Dan Shi Bu Yi, published during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). In this text, red yeast rice is proposed to be a mild aid for gastric problems (indigestion, diarrhea), blood circulation, and spleen and stomach health. Red yeast rice in a dried, powdered form is called Zhi Tai. When extracted with alcohol it is called Xue Zhi Kang.

You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Red yeast rice extract is used in Chinese food for flavor and color. It's what gives Peking duck its red hue. The product has been used by the Chinese for medicinal purposes for centuries. One component of red yeast rice extract is chemically identical to the statin lovastatin found in Mevacor, a cholesterol-lowering drug. It works by slowing down cholesterol production in the body. However, since red yeast rice extract contains a substance found in a prescription drug, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has attempted to control its sale as a supplement and neutraceutical companies have had to change the way they formulate it. Therefore, it is difficult to know whether certain supplements contain an adequate amount of the cholesterol-lowering component. That's why it should only be taken under your physician's supervision.