Eicosanol

Fatty-acidFatty alcohol

What is it

Eicosanol is a long-chain fatty alcohol (20 carbons), also called arachidyl alcohol. It is one of the components of policosanol, a mixture of long-chain alcohols typically derived from sugarcane wax.

How it works

Long-chain fatty alcohols like eicosanol may modulate cholesterol metabolism, possibly through inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase or by affecting LDL receptor activity. Most clinical research has used policosanol (a mixture) rather than isolated eicosanol. Clinical evidence for policosanol's cholesterol effects is mixed. Cuban studies showed substantial LDL reductions, but independent studies in other countries have generally shown smaller or no effects.

Dosage

There is no established daily intake recommendation for isolated eicosanol. Policosanol supplements are typically dosed at 5 to 20 mg per day.

When and how to take it

Policosanol-style products are typically taken with the evening meal, when cholesterol synthesis is highest.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Policosanol (eicosanol-containing mixture)

Most clinical research uses policosanol rather than isolated eicosanol.

Lipid-soluble; absorbed with dietary fat.

Safety

Generally well tolerated in clinical studies. Reported side effects are uncommon and include mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Long-term safety data is reasonable for policosanol; specific data for isolated eicosanol is limited.

Who should be cautious

Pregnant and breastfeeding people should avoid in the absence of safety data. People on anticoagulants should consult a clinician.

Interactions

Theoretical mild antiplatelet effect at high doses. Combine cautiously with anticoagulants.

Frequently asked questions

Does eicosanol lower cholesterol?⌄

Evidence for policosanol mixtures is mixed; effects from isolated eicosanol are even less clear. Statins and dietary changes have more reliable evidence.

Is it safe?⌄

Policosanol-style products are generally well tolerated. Specific safety data for isolated eicosanol is limited.

References

Eicosanol on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Eicosanol (ChEBI:75627) — ChEBI link

Eicosanol (PubChem CID 12404) — PubChem link

Eicosanol on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Eicosanol (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.