|
Octacosanol (C28H58O) is a 28 carbon long-chain saturated primary alcohol, and is the active ingredient in wheat germ oil. It is found in wheat germ oil, spinach and sugar cane wax. It is a constituent of vegetable waxes. Octacosanol is isolated from the wax found on green blades of wheat. It is the major long-chain alcohol isolated from the waxes of sugar cane and yams.
Octacosanol is also known as l-octacosanol, n-octacosanol and octacosyl alcohol.
Octacosanol is a waxy substance found in vegetable oils and sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum). Another compound, called policosanol, contains a large amount of octacosanol, along with several similar compounds.
Octacosanol is used to increase endurance, stamina & vigor.
Octacosanol also acts to increase exercise endurance because of its high vitamin E content. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and free-radical scavenger. Vitamin E protects muscle tissue and DNA from damage, and immune function from oxidative stress. By preventing the buildup of lactic acid and increasing the body's ability to store glucose as muscle glycogen, octacosanol can improve muscular strength and endurance.
Wheat germ oil in particular has been studied by researcher as an exercise and physical performance enhancing agent. Studies indicate that the octacosanol found in wheat germ oil may help to enhance endurance, reaction time and exercise capacity. Octacosanol, may also have have cholesterol-lowering effects but additional research is need to confirm these findings.
Bone-turnover is of great concern because this process can lead to thinning of the bones - osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can leave one vulnerable to brittle and fragile bones.
|
