Red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus)
Synopsis
Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese food and remedy made by fermenting rice with the yeast Monascus purpureus. It naturally contains monacolin K, a compound chemically identical to the statin drug lovastatin, which helps reduce cholesterol production in the liver. Red yeast rice is commonly used to support cardiovascular health, lower LDL cholesterol, and improve blood flow. It also contains other beneficial compounds such as plant sterols and isoflavones that contribute to its lipid-lowering and antioxidant effects.