Octacosanol is a waxy substance naturally present in some plant oils and is the primary component of the sugar cane extract called policosanol. It is a constituent of vegetable waxes. It is isolated from the wax found on green blades of wheat. It is the major long-chain alcohol isolated from the waxes of sugar cane and yams. It is also found in wheat germ oil. Wheat germ itself is a good source of protein, B vitamins, vitamin E, and many minerals, particularly iron, calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, zinc, phosphorus, and potassium. Octacosanol may promote endurance, strength, and vigor. It may also supports healthy cholesterol levels. Similarly, there is preliminary evidence suggesting that Octacosanol may increase physical endurance and that it may benefit some with Parkinson's disease.
Wheat germ oil in particular has been studied by researchers as an exercise and physical performance enhancing agent. Studies indicate that the Octacosanol found in wheat germ oil may help to enhance endurance, reaction time, and exercise capacity. Wheat germ oil is very high in vitamin E and is often used as a source of vitamin E for internal use or for external application to burns, sores, and other skin problems. The antioxidant properties of vitamin E make wheat germ oil more stable to oxidation or rancidity than many other oils.
References:
PDR Health. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/oct_0186.shtml
Nutrasanus. http://www.nutrasanus.com/wheat-germ.html
