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Top 8 Best Red Yeast Rice Supplements

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Written by Andrew Le, MD.
Medically reviewed by
Clinical Physician Assistant, Summit Health
Last updated June 5, 2024

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Red yeast rice is a food supplement that traditionally has been utilized in the Chinese medicine system. It is brewed from fermented rice incorporating a particular type of yeast that produces the red hue that it boasts. Red yeast rice supplements have been recommended for their ability to help lower cholesterol and are sometimes used as a natural statin drug replacement.

To give you the best recommendations, we dedicated time to read about the value of red yeast rice supplements and investigate the capabilities of those available. In the next stages of the article, we will introduce our best choices and give a description of each product.

Top 3 Best Red Yeast Rice Supplements

  1. Purely Holistic Red Yeast Rice Supplement
  2. Nature's Craft Red Yeast Rice Supplement
  3. Nature's Bounty Red Yeast Rice, Herbal Supplement, 600mg, 250 Capsules

After conducting comprehensive research and testing on different red yeast rice supplements, they have provided you with the best products available on Amazon. Red yeast rice is a natural supplement that has been used in Chinese medicine for many centuries to support the health of the heart and decrease cholesterol levels. The list below is of supplements that contain good quality ingredients and do not include any banned substances. Continue reading to get the right red yeast rice supplement for your needs.

Purely Holistic Red Yeast Rice Supplement

The Editor's Choice

Purely Holistic's Red Yeast Rice Supplement offers a high-strength, premium formulation with CoQ10 and Niacin, supporting heart health. With 30% more capsules than competitors, it provides excellent value for money. While the capsules may be large and slightly more expensive, rigorous testing ensures its quality and effectiveness. Highly recommended.

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If you’re interested in a good quality red yeast rice supplement then Purely Holistic could be just what you’re looking for.

Pros

  • This supplement is a high-strength, premium formulation that includes CoQ10 and Niacin, two cardiovascular powerhouses that can help support your overall heart health.
  • With 120 vegetarian capsules per bottle, Purely Holistic's supplement offers on average 30% more capsules than their competitors, making it an excellent value for your money.
  • This supplement is exceptionally high-quality, with rigorous testing and screening methods used to ensure that it's free of harmful by-products like Citrinin.

Cons

  • Some users may find the capsules a bit large and difficult to swallow.
  • While this supplement is an excellent value, it may be a bit pricier than some other options on the market.
  • As with any dietary supplement, results may vary from person to person.

In summary, we are confident to say that Purely Holistic’s Red Yeast Rice Supplement is worth trying. It is an effective and pure blend that can serve as a health supplement for your heart and for a reasonable price as well; 120 capsules per bottle. Moreover, since there are strict methods of testing and screening used in the production process, you can be assured of the product's safety and efficacy.

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To help promote the health of your heart, we suggest using Nature’s Craft Red Yeast Rice Supplement.
Pros

  • Above the Rest - This blend of red yeast rice and Co Q-10 targets all of your heart health needs.
  • Potent - The combination of red yeast rice and Coenzyme Q10 can provide significant support for skin, heart, lung, and brain health, as well as energy levels.
  • Quality - Nature's Craft is a leading name in dietary vitamins and supplements, and this product is made with your needs in mind.

Cons

  • May not work for everyone - As with any supplement, results may vary from person to person.
  • May cause side effects - Some people may experience side effects such as headaches, stomach upset, or muscle pain.
  • May interact with medications - If you are taking prescription medications, it's important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.


Nature’s Craft Red Yeast Rice Supplement has been in the house for a few weeks, and it seems to be doing a good job. We have felt the improvement in our energy and think that our general health is better now. We value the absence of negative additives in our food and the fact that this supplement is produced using only high-quality components.

The capsules are easy to swallow with no side effects that have been reported to us. Still, we do advise consulting your doctor before beginning any new supplement intake, especially if you are on medication.

All in all, this Nature’s Craft Red Yeast Rice Supplement deserves its place in the list of recommended natural supplements to promote heart health.

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If you are in search of a natural product that is effective in maintaining the health of your heart and regulating cholesterol levels, Nature’s Bounty Red Yeast Rice can be recommended greatly.

Pros

  • Contains 600mg of Red Yeast Rice Powder from the Chinese botanical Monascus purpureus
  • Lab tested in the United States to ensure quality
  • Non-GMO, gluten-free, sugar-free, and contains no artificial color, flavor, or sweetener

Cons

  • May cause mild side effects such as headache, dizziness, and stomach discomfort
  • Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with liver disease, or those taking certain medications
  • Requires taking a Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ10) supplement to prevent potential side effects

After taking Nature’s Bounty Red Yeast Rice supplement for several months, we can say that the supplement is effective. The capsules are easier to swallow than tablets, and they do not leave behind any unpleasant taste in the mouth.

We particularly like this supplement because it is made from all-natural compounds, and the manufacturer has confirmed that the supplement undergoes a purity and potency test in a laboratory. We also approve the absence of GMOs, gluten, and various chemical additives in the composition.

However, Red Yeast Rice has been reported to have mild side effects like headache, dizziness, and stomach upsets. It is also not advisable for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers, patients with liver ailments, or anyone on certain prescription drugs. It also requires a CoQ10 supplement in order to avoid possible side effects.

In conclusion, Nature’s Bounty Red Yeast Rice supplement can be considered a reliable and effective supplement for everyone who wants to improve their heart health and decrease their cholesterol levels naturally.

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If you are in search of a supplement that can help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support heart health, you should try Thorne Red Yeast Rice + CoQ10.

Pros

  • Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels
  • Promotes healthy lipid particle size and number
  • Contains CoQ10 for added antioxidant support

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those with liver disease or taking certain medications
  • Some users may experience mild side effects such as headache or gastrointestinal discomfort
  • May not be effective for everyone in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels

From our own experience, Thorne Red Yeast Rice + CoQ10 does work in terms of keeping cholesterol in check. The naturally occurring monacolins, phytosterols, and isoflavones found in red yeast rice also help support optimal lipid levels, and healthy lipid particle size and number. CoQ10, which was added to the formula, boosts the antioxidant activity.

Another major advantage of Thorne Red Yeast Rice + COQ10 is that it is not only free from gluten, egg, tree nuts, peanuts, dairy, soy, fish, and shellfish but also contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Moreover, Thorne is the same brand that champions choose and with which more than 100 professional teams cooperate. It is the only supplement company that is a wellness partner with Mayo Clinic for research and content, and an official joint venture of 11 US Olympic Teams.

It is therefore our opinion that whilst it may not be safe for those with liver disease or for those taking specific medications, for most people Thorne Red Yeast Rice + CoQ10 is a safe and effective means of promoting cardiovascular well-being. There are some people who may complain of side effects like headache or nausea but these are quite rare. We should also point out that, as with any supplement, Thorne Red Yeast Rice + CoQ10 may not help everybody maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consult their doctors before using the supplement.

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If you are in search of a natural supplement that will help reduce cholesterol levels, then it is likely that ForestLeaf Red Yeast Rice Care with COQ-10 and Organic Flaxseed will be exactly what you have been searching for. We suggest this product because it is enriched with quality elements that have been proven scientific, making it unique.

Pros

  • Provides a potent blend of Red Yeast Rice, Organic Flaxseed Oil Powder, Alpha Lipoic Acid, and COQ10.
  • Third-party tested for quality and purity.
  • Free of gluten, dairy, eggs, and nuts.

Cons

  • May cause side effects such as stomach upset, headache, and dizziness.
  • Should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women, children, or people with liver disease.
  • May interact with certain medications, so consult with your doctor before taking this supplement.

For the past few weeks, we’ve been using ForestLeaf Red Yeast Rice Care with COQ-10 and Organic Flaxseed, and we can positively say that we have not been disappointed. We have reduced our cholesterol intake, and this has actually helped us to be healthier and full of energy.

The supplement is available in capsule form, and one bottle contains a thirty-day supply. We like that it does not contain the usual allergens and that it has been tested for quality and purity by third-party testers.

However, we would like to note that this supplement can result in side effects such as stomach discomfort, headaches, and dizziness. It also should not be taken by pregnant and breastfeeding women, children and people with liver problems as well. It may also have an interference with some medicines, so before consuming this supplement you should consult with your doctor.

All in all, we can admit that ForestLeaf Red Yeast Rice Care with COQ-10 and Organic Flaxseed can be considered as one of the most effective supplements that can help people who want toUPPORT their heart naturally.

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For those seeking a natural way of caring for their cholesterol, Thorne Choleast-900 should meet their needs.

Pros

  • Helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels
  • Contains naturally occurring monacolins, phytosterols, and isoflavones
  • Trusted by professional athletes and teams

Cons

  • Not suitable for individuals with soy allergies
  • May not work for everyone
  • Can cause side effects in some people

Recently we have been taking Thorne Choleast-900 for several months and can say that it works for the health of cholesterol very well. The supplement includes red yeast rice, which is used to lower cholesterol levels. It also has phytosterols and isoflavones to assist in managing lipid particle size and number.

There are several qualities that we like about Thorne Choleast-900 and one of them is that it is natural. This natural supplement is free from GMOs and gluten so people who have special diets will benefit a lot from the supplement. Moreover, Thorne is a popular brand that is used by professional athletes and teams. Another thing that makes Thorne different is that it is the only supplement manufacturer that works with the Mayo Clinic on wellness research and content.

Nevertheless, although most consumers seem to experience minor side effects at the most from Thorne Choleast-900, it is not perfect. It is possible for some people to develop some side effects like stomach upset or muscle pain. Also, the supplement is not recommended for people with soy allergy.

All in all, we would definitely endorse Thorne Choleast-900 to anyone who is in search of a herbal supplement which they could take in order to get their cholesterol levels improved. It is a natural product of health and beauty caring that is tested to help you maintain a healthy cholesterol level.

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If your goal is to find a supplement that can help maintain healthy blood lipids and cardiovascular function, Red Yeast Rice Capsules by Designs for Health can be a proper choice.

Pros

  • Contains monacolins that support healthy blood lipids
  • Grown in the U.S. with USDA-certified organic red yeast rice
  • Citrinin tested to ensure undetectable levels

Cons

  • May not be suitable for those with liver disease
  • Some users reported gastrointestinal discomfort
  • May cause muscle pain or weakness in rare cases

We have been using Designs for Health Red Yeast Rice Capsules for a few months now and have also seen improvements in our cholesterol. It also contains monacolins for the preservation of healthy blood lipids and the red yeast rice is grown in the United States; the supplement is USDA organic. We also acknowledge that Designs for Health goes to the extent of testing its red yeast rice for the presence of citrinin with negative results.

However, it is also worth mentioning that its side effects include liver toxicity in patients with liver disease and occasional reports of gastrointestinal side effects. Furthermore, there are claims that red yeast rice supplements can sometimes lead to muscle pain or weakness. As always, individuals should consult with their doctor before beginning any new supplement plan.

In conclusion, should you be interested in finding a natural supplement that promotes cardiovascular health and supports normal blood lipid levels, Designs for Health Red Yeast Rice Capsules may could be a good choice.

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For anyone who wishes to take a natural supplement that can improve the health of their cardiovascular system, the Jarrow Formulas Red Yeast Rice Supplement could be the ideal solution for them.

Pros

  • The supplement contains Coenzyme Q10 and Red Yeast Rice, which are known to support cardiovascular function.
  • Each serving offers 1,200 mg of red yeast rice and 100 mg of Co-Q10, making it a potent supplement.
  • The product is non-GMO, gluten-free, wheat-free, soy-free, dairy-free, egg-free, fish/shellfish-free, peanuts/tree nuts-free, and sesame-free.

Cons

  • The supplement might cause side effects like headaches, dizziness, and stomach discomfort in some people.
  • Some users might not like the taste or aftertaste of the capsules.
  • The supplement might interact with other medications, so it's best to consult a healthcare professional before taking it.

Jarrow Formulas Red Yeast Rice Supplement has proved to be a helpful means of supporting our heart health, and the product is very easy to use. The veggie capsules are small and easy to swallow, with no foul taste left in the throat. We also like the fact that the product does not contain any allergens that most people are sensitive to.

With this in mind, we noted some mild side effects when taking the supplement, such as headaches and stomach upsets. We also suggest that you should consult your doctor before using this or any supplement if you are on other medications or if you have any underlying health complications.

All in all, we believe that Jarrow Formulas Red Yeast Rice Supplement is a good product that can help people maintain their cardiovascular system naturally. It is a super-concentrated formula that is not contaminated with many ordinary allergens, and it can be taken as a daily supplement.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best red yeast rice supplement, there are a few key features that you should look at. In this section, we will discuss these features and provide you with some helpful tips to make the best choice for your needs.

Firstly, it is good to always look at the label to see the milligrams of monacolin K in the supplement. This is an active ingredient present in red yeast rice that contributes towards the cholesterol-lowering effect. Seek for a product that comes with monacolin K, potassium salt at not less than 10mg per day.

Secondly, it is necessary to focus on the format of the product. Red yeast rice can be purchased in the form of capsules, tablets and in powdered form. It is advisable to select a form of doing business that is most suitable to your daily routine and comfort.

The next consideration is the dosage instructions that should be followed to avoid harm or side effects. However, you should strictly adhere to the labelling instructions, particularly the dosage and seek approval from your doctor before using any supplement.
Also, check the product for its label that proves that it has been tested by a third party as to its purity and quality. This also confirms its purity from all forms of contamination and adherence to strict manufacturing methods.

Last but not least, consider the additional food substances that may be included in the supplement. Drugs can have other additives, such as CoQ10 or omega-3 fatty acids, that may also be good for the body.

In conclusion, one should be deliberate while selecting the best red yeast rice complement based on the content of monacolin K, form, suggested dose, purity, and other supplements. It is for this reason; that you are in a position to make the right decision and opt for the right supplement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which brands of red yeast rice are USP Verified?

There are several brands of red yeast rice supplements that are USP Verified, including Nature Made, NOW Foods, and Solaray. USP Verified supplements have undergone rigorous testing and meet certain quality standards.

What is the recommended dosage of red yeast rice for high cholesterol?

The recommended dosage of red yeast rice for high cholesterol varies depending on the product. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement.

Can CoQ10 be taken with red yeast rice?

CoQ10 can be taken with red yeast rice, and some supplements even contain both ingredients. CoQ10 is often recommended for those taking red yeast rice to help support heart health.

Are there any supplements that should not be taken with red yeast rice?

Red yeast rice should not be taken with certain medications, including statins, blood thinners, and certain antibiotics. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement, especially if you are taking medication.

What are the best red yeast rice supplements with high levels of monacolin K?

Red yeast rice supplements with high levels of monacolin K include Jarrow Formulas, Pure Encapsulations, and Swanson Health. Monacolin K is the active ingredient in red yeast rice that helps to support healthy cholesterol levels.

Which red yeast rice supplements are citrinin-free?

Citrinin is a toxin that can be found in some red yeast rice supplements. Brands that are citrinin-free include Nature's Bounty, NutriGold, and Thorne Research. It is important to choose a supplement that is free of harmful toxins and contaminants.

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Clinical Physician Assistant, Summit Health
Jeff brings to Buoy 20 years of clinical experience as a physician assistant in urgent care and internal medicine. He also has extensive experience in healthcare administration, most recently as developer and director of an urgent care center. While completing his doctorate in Health Sciences at A.T. Still University, Jeff studied population health, healthcare systems, and evidence-based medicine....
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