Check out this answer from Consensus:
The current body of research suggests that red yeast rice can help lower blood pressure, particularly systolic blood pressure, when used in combination with conventional therapies. Additionally, its beneficial effects on lipid profiles and overall cardiovascular health further support its use as a dietary supplement. However, more rigorously designed long-term studies are needed to fully establish its efficacy and safety in hypertensive patients.
Red yeast rice (RYR) is a traditional Chinese food and dietary supplement that has gained attention for its potential health benefits, particularly in managing cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health. This article explores whether RYR can help lower blood pressure, drawing on findings from various research studies.
Mechanism of Action
Red yeast rice is produced by fermenting rice with the mold Monascus purpureus. It contains several active compounds, including monacolin K, which is chemically identical to the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin. Monacolin K inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis, which can lead to reduced cholesterol levels and potentially lower blood pressure2 6.
Evidence from Research Studies
Blood Pressure Effects
Several studies have investigated the impact of RYR on blood pressure. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that RYR, when used in combination with conventional therapy, exhibited significant lowering effects on systolic blood pressure (SBP) but not on diastolic blood pressure (DBP)1. Another study demonstrated that low-dose RYR significantly reduced both SBP and DBP in patients with mild dyslipidemia5.
Lipid Profile and Cardiovascular Health
RYR has been extensively studied for its effects on lipid profiles. Multiple studies have shown that RYR significantly lowers total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG), while having a minimal effect on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C)4 7 8. These improvements in lipid profiles can contribute to overall cardiovascular health, which may indirectly influence blood pressure9.
Safety and Tolerability
The safety of RYR has been a topic of concern due to reports of potential toxicity. However, a comprehensive meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials concluded that RYR is generally safe and well-tolerated, with no significant increase in musculoskeletal disorders or serious adverse events3. This makes RYR a viable option for individuals seeking alternative treatments for dyslipidemia and hypertension.
Does red yeast rice help lower blood pressure?
David Becker has answered Near Certain
An expert from Independent in Cardiology
There is no doubt that ryr lowers cholesterol. It has a component in it called monacolins, which is similar chemically to lovastatin
Here is a link to several papers that I have written on the topic
http://healthychangeofheart.com/our-team/published-papers/
The major problem- it is over the counter so often the monacolin content among preparations can differ.