Herbs & Supplements:
Beta-Sitosterol
Principal Proposed Uses
•
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (Prostate Enlargement)
Other Proposed Uses
•
General Health Benefits
Numerous plants contain cholesterol-like compounds called sitosterols and their close relatives sitosterolins. A special mixture of these called beta-sitosterol is used for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Beta-sitosterol binds to prostate tissue and affects the metabolism of prostaglandins, substances found in the body that affect pain and inflammation.1 However, it is not clear whether this is the correct explanation of how beta-sitosterol works for BPH.
What Is Beta-Sitosterol Used for Today?
For some reason, there seem to be more useful herbal treatments for BPH than any other disease (except perhaps varicose veins!). Beta-sitosterol joins saw palmetto, nettle, and pygeum as a documented treatment for BPH.
Based on preliminary evidence, it has been suggested that sitosterols may also offer general health benefits, in particular strengthening the immune system.2 One study suggests that beta-sitosterol can help prevent the immune weakness that typically occurs after marathon running.3 Sitosterols may eventually take their place alongside flavonoids and carotenes as beneficial substances found in food that aren't essential for life but may enhance overall health. However, more research needs to be done.
What Is the Scientific Evidence for Beta-Sitosterol?
A review of the literature, published in 1999, found a total of four randomized double-blind placebo-controlled studies on beta-sitosterol for BPH, enrolling a total of 519 men.4–7 All but one of these studies found significant benefits in both perceived symptoms and objective measurements, such as urine flow rate.
The largest study followed 200 men with BPH for a period of 6 months.8 After the trial was completed, many of the participants were followed for an additional year, during which the benefits continued.9 Similar results were seen in a 6-month double-blind trial of 177 individuals with BPH.10
Dosage
The daily dosage of beta-sitosterol is 60 to 135 mg. Effects usually take 4 weeks to develop.
Safety Issues
Although detailed safety studies have not been performed, beta-sitosterol is believed to be safe. No significant side effects or drug interactions have been reported.11
View References
Last reviewed March 2002 by Medical Review Board
Back to Top
