Much evidence is in existence about beta sitosterol studies that have been performed over several years. Stringent scientific studies have been performed on animals and humans since the 50s and have been published in international medical and scientific journals. This substance is a natural combination of several sterols, including brassicasterol, campesterol and stigmasterol. This is the way they are produced by plants. No food type contains a high level of phytosterols. However, they are extracted from pine oil, soybean and sugar cane pulp.

This substance has been proved to lower triglyceride levels and blood serum cholesterol in the body. These reductions of up to fifty percent were reporter along with very few changes, if any, to the diet. In many cases, no exercise was added or increased. Some studies also showed decreased cholesterol levels by up to ten percent in people with normal levels without any dietary or exercise changes. It works by prohibits the absorption of bad cholesterol.

These conclusions indicate that risks associated with high cholesterol and unhealthy diet can be decreased with little or no changes.

Additionally, the data shows that using this supplement may benefit prostate health. Low levels are obtained from pygeium africanum, stinging nettle and saw palmetto. Higher concentrations are found in soybeans, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, rice bran, corn oil and wheat germ. Many herbalists prescribe these plants to manage prostate and urological health. Saw palmetto is much in use in supplements for a variety of conditions. The plant grows along the coast and in pine forests, mainly in the southeastern parts of America.

The prostate is a gland situated directly behind the bladder, which may benefit from beta sitosterol. The prostate grows as a man ages and may push on the bladder. This could lead to increased urination and hamper social activities and sleeping patterns in half of all men. In some, intimacy may also be affected.

Other benefits that have been found by beta sitosterol studies have not yet all been substantiated by scientific evidence. However, they include boosting of the immune system, relieving of inflammation, alleviation of cramps, healing of ulcers, and the enhancement of the tone of the uterus. Since no drug interactions or side effects were reported during these studies, it was concluded that the substance is safe. Several supplements that are combined with other phytosterols are available over the counter. Studies continue to assess whether it may be useful in treatment of multiple sclerosis and several other conditions.