monascus

monascus,

a natural product derived from red yeast grown on rice, traditionally used in Chinese medicine and now in more common use as both a medicine and a foodstuff. Commerically prepared supplements are grown under conditions that maximize the production of mevinic acids (statins), primarily lovastatin, agents manufactured and sold by pharmaceutical companies that inhibit cholesterol synthesis. Also called red yeast .

use It is used to help maintain acceptable cholesterol levels.

contraindications It should not be used during pregnancy and lactation, in children, or in those with known hypersensitivity to monascus or with hepatic disease such as cirrhosis or fatty liver.

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monascus (m·nasˈ·ks),

n Latin names:
Monascum purpureus, Monascum anka; part used: whole yeast; uses: antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatoprotection, cholesterol, vascular conditions, gastrointestinal conditions; precautions: pregnancy, lactation, children, cirrhosis, and other liver diseases. Also called
zhi tai or
xuezhikang.