Chinese
red yeast, Monascus purpureus, contains a family of
substances that inhibit an enzyme responsible for making cholesterol in the
body. In clinical studies, extracts of M. purpureus reduce
LDL cholesterol levels by about 31% and triglycerides by 34%. In animal
studies, a reduction in atherosclerotic plaques has also been shown.
Synonyms: RRY, Red Yeast Rice Extract, RYR