Botanical name: Monascus purpureus
Other name: Went Yeast
Derived from rice fermented with Monascus purpureus yeast, red yeast rice is comprised of various chemicals, with monacolin K being a key component identical to a statin drug. Red yeast rice contains a total of ten different chemicals, collectively known as monacolins, and these substances play a role in influencing cholesterol levels. Notably, monacolin K, which mirrors the structure of the drug lovastatin, stands out as the most prevalent chemical in red yeast rice.
Medicinal Uses:
- Improved heart health
- Reduced risk of metabolic syndrome
- Decreased inflammation
- Reduced cancer risk
