Red Yeast Rice (Monascus purpureus) is a unique natural product native to China thats been used in Asian traditional medical systems since approximately 800 A.D. Produced by fermenting red yeast (Monascus purpureus) with white rice, Red Yeast Rice is commonly used in cooking applications to enhance the color and flavor of foods. Peking Duck is an example of the coloration and flavor imparted by Red Yeast Rice. In addition to its pigment value, red yeast rice offers some very valuable therapeutic benefits. In fact, it is the source of certain compounds, one of which is called mevinolin, which not only lowers cholesterol but has some antioxidant properties as well. Melvionlin enzymatically inhibits a comppound called mevalonate, which ends up decreasing LDL cholesterol (the bad kind) while either maintaining or increasing HDL cholesterol(the good kind).
It contains HMG-CoA (hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA) reductase inhibitors, which are compounds that inhibit and enzymataic reaction necessary to produce cholesterol in the body, especially in the liver. The liver is considered the main site of cholesterol production and is responsible for over 75% of our total cholesterol supply. The liver contains plenty of HMG-CoA reductase and Red Yeast Rice works to inhibit its action, thereby decreasing cholesterol production. NOW® Red Yeast Rice Extract is carefully produced to avoid the presence of citrinin, a sometimes toxic by-product of the fermentation process.
One clinical study conducted at the College of Pharmacy of Nihon University in Japan found that red yeast rice pigment, referred to as Monasus pigment, was able to inhibit, through oral administration, the growth of malignant tumors induced in laboratory test mice.
Product Information:
Suggested Dosage or Use: As a dietary supplement, take 2 Vcaps® 1-2 times daily, preferably with meals. We also recommend taking this product with NOW® CoQ10 capsules, softgels or chewable lozenges for enhanced benefit.
Serving Size: 2 VCaps®, 60 Servings per container.
Nutrition Information for Red Yeast Rice:
Amount Per Serving....% Daily Value
Red Yeast Rice (Monascus purpureus) 1.2 g (1200 mg)*
(Concentrated (10:1) Powder)
* Percent Daily Values are based on 2,000 calorie diet.
Daily Value not established.
Other Ingredients: Cellulose (capsule), Magnesium Stearate (vegetable source) and Silica.
Free of: sugar, salt, wheat, gluten, corn, soy, milk or preservatives.
Warnings: Not intended for pregnant or lactating women. Individuals with liver disease or those currently taking any medications should consult with a health practitioner prior to use. PLEASE DISCARD THE INEDIBLE FRESHNESS PACKET ENCLOSED.
Vegetarian Formula.
Brand: Now Foods
Red Yeast Rice Extract Vegetarian 600 mg - 120 VCaps®