A stenol is a type of organic compound classified as a steroid, specifically a sterol, which contains a hydroxyl group (-OH) and is typically found in plants and fungi. Stenols are structurally similar to cholesterol but differ in the arrangement of their carbon atoms. They play various roles in biological systems, including serving as precursors to hormones and contributing to cellular structure. Notably, stenols can also have health benefits, such as lowering cholesterol levels in humans.