Red yeast rice (RYR) has been consumed in Asian countries as a staple since about 800 A.D. during the Tang Dynasty. Writings were discovered dating back to the Ming Dynasty that describe the benefits of red yeast rice. Ben Cao Gang Mu-Dan Shi Bu Yi, an ancient Chinese pharmacopoeia, stated that RYR helped digestive issues, circulation and health of the spleen.

On the Other: Side Effects

The FDA does not monitor the sale of RYR; this means that the purity of the commercial product is unknown and dosage is not standardized. Red yeast rice should not be taken by pregnant or nursing mothers or individuals with liver disease. This rice is known to increase bleeding, making it dangerous for people with bleeding disorders as well.

Bottom Line

There is no conclusive evidence that red yeast rice has any affect on blood pressure. Dr. Becker and Dr. Gordon are cardiologists conducting research on the use of red yeast rice as an alternative treatment for high cholesterol in the up to 15 percent of patients that are unable to bear the side effects of statins (prescription cholesterol medication). Studies are also in progress, according to the National Institutes of Health, to evaluate its effectiveness on diabetes.

Source:

Mayo Clinic

National Institutes of Health

More Information:

Cardiologists' Study Shows Red Yeast Rice Cuts Cholesterol