The present invention provides a novel method for the preparation of a
unique profile of primary aliphatic alcohols, having 24 to 30 carbon
atoms, from the wax secreted by the insect Ericerus pela. Included in the
present invention is the composition of matter, referred to herein as
"polycosanol" produced by the method of this invention. The polycosanol
composition is comprised primarily of the four primary aliphatic
alcohols, tetracosanol, hexacosanol, octacosanol and triacontanol.
Further included in this invention is the use of said composition of
matter for the prevention and treatment of obesity, syndrome X, diabetes,
hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerotic complications, ischemia and
thrombosis.
