What Is Beta-Sitosterol? Other Names: Angelicin, Campesterol, Phytosterol

What is Beta-Sitosterol?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Beta-sitosterol is a plant-derived sterol, commonly found in various plant foods such as seeds, nuts, and oils. It is one of the most prevalent phytosterols, alongside campesterol and stigmasterol, and is known for its potential health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering properties and therapeutic effects in various conditions8. Other names include: Angelicin, Angélicine, B-Sitosterol 3-B-D-glucoside, B-Sitosterolin, Beta Sitosterin, Bêta-sitostérine, Beta Sitosterol, Bêta-Sitostérol, Beta-Sitosterol Glucoside, Beta-Sitosterol Glycoside, Campesterol, Campestérol, Cinchol, Cupreol, Ester de Stérol Végétal, Esters de Phytostérol, Esters de Stérol Dérivés d’huile Végétale, Glucoside de Bêta-Sitostérol, Phytosterol, Phytostérol, Phytosterol Esters, Phytosterols, Phytostérols, Plant Sterol Esters, Plant Sterolins, Plant Sterols, Quebrachol, Rhamnol, Sitosterin, Sitosterol, Sitosterolins, Sterinol, Stérolines, Stérolines Végétales, Sterolins, Stérols Végétaux, Stigmasterol, Stigmastérol, Vegetable Oil Sterol Esters, 3-beta-stigmast-5-en-3-ol, 22-23-dihydrostigmasterol, 24-beta-ethyl-delta-5-cholesten-3beta-ol, 24-ethyl-cholesterol.

Health Benefits and Applications of Beta-Sitosterol

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Beta-sitosterol has been extensively studied for its efficacy in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common condition in older men characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. Clinical trials have demonstrated that beta-sitosterol significantly improves urinary symptoms and flow measures in patients with BPH. For instance, a study showed significant improvements in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and peak urinary flow rate in patients treated with beta-sitosterol compared to placebo1 5.

Neuroprotective Effects

Beta-sitosterol also exhibits neuroprotective properties. It has been shown to enhance motor coordination, attenuate memory loss, and reduce neurodegeneration in experimental models of neurotoxicity. These effects are attributed to its antioxidant and myelo-protective activities, which help mitigate oxidative stress and protect neural tissues2 4.

Lipid Regulation

In terms of lipid regulation, beta-sitosterol has been found to lower plasma cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that it can reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, although it may also lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which could be a concern in certain populations3 9. Additionally, beta-sitosterol has been used in dietary interventions to modify serum lipid levels and improve immune function10.

Learn more with Consensus:

Beta-Sitosterol Mechanism of Action

Beta-sitosterol works primarily by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, which leads to a reduction in serum cholesterol levels. This mechanism is beneficial in managing hyperlipidemia and associated cardiovascular risks7. Furthermore, its antioxidant properties contribute to its protective effects against oxidative stress-related damage in various tissues2 4.

Learn more with Consensus:

Adverse Effects of Beta-Sitosterol

Reduction in HDL Cholesterol: Beta-sitosterol has been shown to significantly lower HDL cholesterol levels, which is considered the “good” cholesterol. This effect was observed in studies involving patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, where HDL cholesterol decreased by 15%1.

Potential Impact on Lipid Levels: While beta-sitosterol can lower total and LDL cholesterol, the reduction in HDL cholesterol and the insufficient response in lowering total and LDL cholesterol suggest caution in its use, particularly in juvenile type II hyperlipoproteinemia1.

No Reported Side Effects in Some Studies: In a study involving patients with familial hyperlipoproteinemia type II, no side effects or tachyphylaxis were observed during the trial period6. However, this does not rule out potential adverse effects in other populations or longer-term use.

Learn more with Consensus:

How has Beta-Sitosterol Improved Patient Outcomes?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Symptom Improvement: Beta-sitosterol significantly improved symptoms of BPH, as measured by the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Patients experienced a notable reduction in IPSS scores compared to placebo, indicating a decrease in urinary symptoms1 2.

Urinary Flow and Residual Volume: There was a significant increase in peak urinary flow rate and a decrease in post-void residual urinary volume in patients treated with beta-sitosterol, suggesting improved urinary function1 2.

Quality of Life: Patients reported improvements in quality of life, further supporting the efficacy of beta-sitosterol in managing BPH symptoms1.

Tuberculosis (TB)

Weight Gain and Immune Response: In patients with pulmonary TB, beta-sitosterol as an adjuvant therapy led to greater weight gain and improved immune markers, such as increased lymphocyte and eosinophil counts, compared to placebo3.

Radiological and Clinical Improvements: Children with TB receiving beta-sitosterol showed better radiological improvements and higher treatment completion rates, with fewer side effects like hepatotoxicity, compared to those on standard therapy alone4.

Hyperlipoproteinemia

Cholesterol Levels: In patients with hypercholesterolemia, beta-sitosterol reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels, although it also decreased HDL cholesterol, which may limit its use in juvenile type II hyperlipoproteinemia5 7.

Learn more with Consensus:

Common Complaints Associated with Beta-Sitosterol Use

Cholesterol Levels: In a study involving children and adolescents with familial hypercholesterolemia, beta-sitosterol was found to lower HDL cholesterol significantly by 15%, which is generally considered a negative effect since HDL is the “good” cholesterol1. This suggests that beta-sitosterol might not be suitable for all individuals, particularly those concerned with maintaining healthy HDL levels.

Efficacy Concerns: The same study noted an insufficient response in lowering total and LDL cholesterol, which may lead to dissatisfaction among users expecting significant improvements in these lipid parameters1.

General Tolerability: While the study on BPH did not explicitly mention adverse effects, the focus on efficacy and safety implies that beta-sitosterol is generally well-tolerated, though individual responses can vary2.

Learn more with Consensus:

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please seek immediate attention from a healthcare provider.