In this 5 Part Series, Dr. Blue will be sharing with you an in depth look at the ingredients that make up our unique high altitude Oxyfix Formula. This is part 2 of our series and we will be discussing Octacosanol.
What is Octacosanol?
Octacosanol is a long straight chain saturated primary alcohol. It is just one of a group of polycosanols, Polycosanol means many cosanols, so a polycosanol mixture will contain several different cosanols, or fatty alcohols. Octacosanol is one of the most common of those. The chemical formula is C28H58O. Chemically it is similar to Vitamin E. Wheat germ oil is the most common source of Octacosanol but it is also found in plant epicuticular waxes of Eucalyptus and many forage and cereal grasses.
Benefits of Octacosanol
Octacosanol has several potential benefits. Preliminary studies show promise in the treatment of Parkinsons disease. Studies have also shown that it may inhibit cholesterol production, help reduce stress related sleep issues and help regulate blood sugar. Of particular interest are the studies that have shown it increases physical endurance and reduce fatigue. One study done by H. Kim and Associates and published in the “Journal of Medicinal Food” tested Octacosanol to a placebo on lab animals for 28 days. The Octacosanol group ran 46% longer than the control group. It showed an increase in the ability to use oxygen and prevent muscle breakdown. Another study using an Octacosanol group versus a Placebo Control Group showed extreme resistance to exhaustion. The Octacosanol group maintained peak power over 180% longer than the control group.
Oxygen Uptake Properties of Octacosanol
Because of the chemical make up of Octacosanol and Polycosanols, they are able to penetrate the fatty phospholipid membranes of cells and their organelles such as the mitochondria. The mitochondria is like the energy factory of the cell, it is where the bodies energy is produced. Using the available oxygen within the cell, the mitochondria converts energy from the cell into a usable form of energy for the body. This process is called oxidative phosphorylation. Due to Octacosanol’s ability to cross these membranes, oxygen is easily transported from both hemoglobin and (from the Germanium in Oxyfix, that we discussed in our last blog ) and into the mitochondria of every cell. This then provides the cell more oxygen to be converted to usable energy for the body.
Is it safe?
Octacosanol is extremely non-toxic and very safe for the majority of users. There have been no reports of toxicity. There is a very short list of drug interactions, including some drugs that are used in treating Parkinson’s disease, Levodopa/Carbidopa (Sinemet). Taking Octacosanol with these medications may make the symptoms of Parkinsons’ disease worse. Those taking blood thinners (anti-coagulants) may want to use caution and pregnant and lactating women may not want to take Octacosanol. As always consult your doctor with any concerns on taking Octacosanol.The most common recommended dose of Octacosanol is 10-20 mg daily. Each Oxyfix packet contains 40 mg of a Polycosanol blend, of which 60% is Octacosanol. We have chosen Octacosanol in our Oxyfix Formula for it’s ability to cross the cell membrane and enhance the cells uptake of oxygen. Organic Germanium, DMG, and Octacosanol work synergistically with each other to allow your body to use oxygen more efficeintly. Next blog we will be discussing DMG’s role in this process.Octacosanol can be a beneficial supplement for those looking to increase athletic endurance and performance. It may also be taken in our Oxyfix supplement either for altitude adjustment assistance or as a general wellness supplement.
References
1. Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1-Octacosanol2. British Society for Cell Biologyhttps://bscb.org/learning-resources/softcell-e-learning/mitochondrion-much-more-than-an-energy-converter3. https://www.rxlist.com/octacosanol/supplements.htm
Warning: This Blog is the opinion of the author and the material within it is designed for informational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This blog and /or products discussed in it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Products discussed are for nutritional support only. This product is not for use by those with a serious medical condition or by pregnant or lactating women. Always consult with your physician if you you have any questions or concerns about this product.