Health Benefits, Effects, and Methods of Consumption of Red Yeast Rice Powder

Red yeast rice powder is produced by fermenting glutinous rice with red yeast mold (*Monascus purpureus*), a process similar to that used in making red yeast rice wine. What are the therapeutic effects of red yeast rice?

Traditionally, red yeast rice functions primarily to strengthen the spleen, harmonize the stomach, and warm the middle burner. From the perspective of modern medicine, it also demonstrates certain benefits in improving blood circulation.

There are two common ways to use red yeast rice: First, as a medicinal herb—typically 10–15 g per dose, decocted in water for oral administration. Second, for home use—when experiencing indigestion or overconsumption of meat, a decoction of red yeast rice can be taken to help harmonize the middle burner and strengthen the spleen.