Tocotrienols are members of the vitamin E family. Like vitamin E, tocotrienols are potent antioxidants against lipid peroxidation (the damaging of fats by oxidation).

Human studies indicate that, in addition to their antioxidant activity, tocotrienols have other important functions, especially in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Test tube and animal studies indicate a possible role for tocotrienols in protecting against cancer (particularly breast and skin cancer).

Like vitamin E, tocotrienols may offer protection against hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) by preventing oxidative damage to LDL cholesterol (oxidation of LDL cholesterol is believed to be one of the triggering factors for atherosclerosis). In a double-blind study in patients 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, in a small sample of patients receiving tocotrienols for 12 months, the size of atherosclerotic plaques became smaller. In contrast, none of the patients receiving the placebo showed an improvement in their atherosclerosis.

Although tocotrienols inhibited cholesterol synthesis in test tube studies, human studies have produced conflicting results. In a preliminary study, supplementation with 200 mg of gamma-tocotrienol reduced total cholesterol levels significantly—by 13% in four weeks. In a double-blind study, 200 mg of tocotrienols per day produced a significant 15% drop in total cholesterol and an 8% reduction in LDL levels. There were no changes in these levels in the placebo group. However, another double-blind study showed that 200 mg of tocotrienols per day failed to lower cholesterol levels. In the most recent double-blind study, a group of men with slightly elevated cholesterol levels given 140 mg of tocotrienols and about 120 IU mg of vitamin E daily demonstrated no changes in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, or HDL cholesterol levels after four weeks of supplementation.

Test tube studies indicate that tocotrienols exert some anticancer effects, especially against skin and breast cancer.12 13 14 15 16 These results still need confirmation in human studies, however.

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.

Tocotrienols have been used in connection with the following conditions:
Atherosclerosis - High Cholesterol - Stroke

Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.