摘要 |
<p>The present invention relates to a naturally obtained mixture of higher molecular weight primary aliphatic alcohols which contain (20 to 34) carbon atoms. This invention also relates to the process for obtaining the alcohol mixture by extraction and purification with organic solvents from a natural product, such as beeswax with and without saponification of the natural product. The alcohol mixture obtained from beeswax has enhanced purity and contains a mixture of alcohols having (20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 28, 30, 32 and 34) carbon atoms. The alcohol mixture is useful in pharmaceutical compositions, foodstuffs and dietary supplements and is effective for lowering cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol and increasing HDL-cholesterol levels so that it is effective in treating hypercholesterolemia. Consequently the composition may be used to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease, to inhibit the atherosclerotic process (platelet hyperaggregability, ischemia and thrombosis) and also to act as an anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic agent. The composition also possesses neurotrophic properties and is useful for improving male sexual activity.</p> |