Tocotrienols
Uses
Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family. Like vitamin E, tocotrienols are potent antioxidants against lipid peroxidation (the damaging of fats by oxidation).1, 2
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For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings. We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.
3 StarsReliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2 StarsContradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1 StarFor an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support.
This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:
| Used for | Why |
|---|---|
2 Stars Atherosclerosis 200 mg daily | Tocotrienols are potent antioxidants that may help slow down the build-up of plaque in the arteries. may offer protection against atherosclerosis by preventing oxidative damage to LDL cholesterol. In a double-blind trial in people with severe atherosclerosis of the carotid artery—the main artery supplying blood to the head—tocotrienol administration (200 mg per day) reduced the level of lipid peroxides in the blood. Moreover, people receiving tocotrienols for 12 months had significantly more protection against atherosclerosis progression, and in some cases reductions in the size of their atherosclerotic plaques, compared with those taking a placebo. |
2 Stars High Cholesterol 200 mg daily | Tocotrienols may increase HDL-cholesterol levels. are lipid-soluble antioxidant molecules that are closely related to tocopherols. Together, tocotrienols and tocopherols make up the family of compounds referred to as vitamin E. These compounds have a critical role in preventing LDL particle oxidation, thus reducing oxidative damage to blood vessels. Some clinical trials have found tocotrienols lowered cholesterol levels, but evidence is conflicting. A meta-analysis of 15 clinical trials found tocotrienol supplementation may increase HDL-cholesterol levels, but is unlikely to reduce total or LDL-cholesterol levels. |
1 Star Stroke Refer to label instructions | In one trial, people with atherosclerosis, a condition that may contribute to stroke, who were given a palm oil extract containing tocotrienols saw significant improvement. In a double-blind trial, people with atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries were given a palm oil extract containing 160–240 mg of (a vitamin E-like supplement) and approximately 100–150 IU vitamin E per day. After 18 months, they had significantly less atherosclerosis or less progression of atherosclerosis compared to a group receiving placebo. Vitamin E plus aspirin, has been more effective in reducing the risk of strokes and other related events than has aspirin, alone. However, most preliminary trials have shown no protective effects from antioxidant supplementation. A large Finnish trial concluded that supplementation with either vitamin E or beta-carotene conferred no protection against stroke in male smokers, although a later review of the study found that those smokers who have either hypertension (high blood pressure) or diabetesdo appear to have a reduced risk of stroke when taking vitamin E. People with high risk for stroke, such as those who have had TIAs or who have a heart condition known as atrial fibrillation, are often given aspirin or anticoagulant medication to reduce blood clotting tendencies. Some natural inhibitors of blood clotting such as garlic,fish oil, and vitamin E, may have protective effects, but even large amounts of fish oil are known to be less potent than aspirin. Whether any of these substances is an adequate substitute to control risk of stroke in high-risk people is unknown, and anyone taking anticoagulant medication should advise their prescribing doctor before beginning use of these natural substances. |
How It Works
How to Use It
The typical recommendation is 140 to 360 mg per day. Most studies have used 200 mg daily.
Where to Find It
Tocotrienols are found primarily in the oil fraction of rice bran, palm fruit, barley, and wheat germ. Supplemental sources of tocotrienols are derived from rice bran oil and palm oil distillates. Tocotrienol supplements are available in capsules and tablets.
Possible Deficiencies
As it is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.
Interactions
Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds
Interactions with Medicines
Certain medicines interact with this supplement.
Replenish Depleted Nutrients
none
Reduce Side Effects
none
Support Medicine
- Anastrozole
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Bicalutamide
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Estramustine
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Leuprolide
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Megestrol
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Nilutamide
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Tamoxifen
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Toremifene
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
- Triptorelin Pamoate
Tocotrienols are compounds similar to vitamin E that are found in palm oil. Test tube studies have shown that tocotrienols enhance the effects of tamoxifen. Controlled studies are needed to determine whether supplementing with tocotrienols might enhance the anticancer effects of tamoxifen.
Reduces Effectiveness
none
Potential Negative Interaction
none
Explanation Required
none
Side Effects
Side Effects
References
1. Kamal-Eldin A, Appelqvist LA. The chemistry and antioxidant properties of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Lipids 1996;31:671-701 [review].
2. Kamat JP, Devasagayam TPA. Tocotrienols from palm oil as potent inhibitors of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation in rat brain mitochondria. Neurosci Lett 1995;195:179-82.
Last Review: 03-24-2015
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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.
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