- phytosterols are naturally occurring, plant-derived sterols structurally similar to cholesterol. they are abundant in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, legumes, grains, fruits, and vegetables. phytosterols are primarily known for their cholesterol-lowering effects and their role as precursors to plant hormones such as brassinosteroids
chemical properties
- chemical structure: steroid nucleus with hydroxyl group, similar to cholesterol
- solubility: insoluble in water; soluble in fats, oils, and organic solvents
- main types include β-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol
usefulness in medicine
- effectively lower ldl cholesterol by inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption, reducing cardiovascular disease risk
- possess anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial in conditions such as arthritis and autoimmune disorders
- studied for anticancer properties, particularly in prostate, breast, and colon cancers
- beneficial effects on prostate health, notably through the reduction of benign prostatic hyperplasia (bph) symptoms
antimicrobial activity
- phytosterols exhibit indirect antimicrobial activity by supporting immune function, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting microbial growth
- bacteria:
- staphylococcus aureus
- escherichia coli
- salmonella spp.
- fungi:
- candida albicans