Benefits of Rice Water

Not all of us can afford expensive hair care treatments or hair spas. So in that case, it's always best to turn to home remedies. Rice water rinse is known to be a very old and popular remedy in China, Japan, and Southeast Asia for numerous hair problems and has far too many benefits to pass up.

According to researchers, women in the Heian period (794 to 1185 CE) in Japan had floor-length hair they kept healthy by washing it in rice water.

A modern-day equivalent of this story can be found in China. The Yao women, who live in a village called Huangluo in China, are famed for having hair that averages 6 feet long.

In addition to its incredible length, the Yao women’s hair is said to keep its color for longer, as they do not begin to get gray hair until they reach their 80s. The Yao women credit the length and color of their hair to the fact they bathe it in rice water.

Did you know?

Rice grains contain 75–80 percent starch. Rice water is the starchy water left over after rice is cooked or left to soak. The leftover water contains many of the vitamins and minerals found in rice. These include:

• amino acids

• B vitamins

• vitamin E

• minerals

• antioxidants

Hair Benefits

Advocates of using rice water for hair believe it:

• detangles the hair

• makes hair smoother

• increases shine

• makes hair stronger

• helps hair grow long

The authors of a 2010 paper note that rice water may reduce surface friction and increase hair elasticity.

Elsewhere, a research facility in Japan has developed an imaging technique that visualizes the strengthening effect of inositol on hair. Inositol is contained in rice water.

Rice water is rich in vitamin B, C and E and helps our hair grow faster, longer and thicker. It contains amino acids which help accelerate hair growth and regeneration while also reducing hair fall. Use a rice water rinse after a hair wash 2 to 3 times a week for the best results.

Split ends are big trouble when you want your hair to look healthy because they take all the attention away from your beautiful tresses to make them look weak and unhealthy. Rice water contains the proteins and nourishment that your hair needs to look healthy while also repairing your split ends. Soak your hair in rice water or just the split ends for up to 30 minutes before you wash your hair for the best results.

Even if you have damaged hair and the regeneration is taking time, it's always a good idea to protect your hair from further damage, more so if your hair has to deal with hair styling products and tools. Rice water rinse is known to work as a hair protectant and prevent hair damage.

Rice water strengthens your hair from the roots and the hair follicles to prevent breakage. The best way to get strong hair is to use a rice water rinse and as an added advantage, it also makes your hair look smooth, shiny and silky.

If you're struggling with hair problems like lice or dandruff, a rice water rinse can be the best cure for it. It helps reduce dandruff and kills lice while also cleansing your hair and scalp.

Skin Benefits

In addition to its potential beauty benefits for the hair, rice water may also benefit the skin. A 2002 study found that the starch in rice water helped damaged skin heal for people with dermatitis.

How to Make Rice Water

There are several different ways to make rice water, including

Soaking

Rinsing rice thoroughly is part of the soaking process.

Soaking is the quickest way to make rice water.

To use this method:

1. take ½ cup of uncooked rice

2. rinse thoroughly

3. place rice in a bowl with 2–3 cups of water

4. leave to soak for 30 minutes

5. strain the rice water into a clean bowl

Boiling

Another way to make rice water is by boiling the rice.

Cover ½ cup of rice with double the water typically used for cooking. Cook the rice in boiling water and strain the rice water into a clean bowl before use.

Fermented vs. Plain Rice Water

Some rice water advocates claim fermented rice water has more benefits than plain rice water.

According to a 2012 study, fermented substances have a higher amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants may combat hair and skin cell damage, which is why they are typical ingredients in beauty products.

To ferment rice water, follow steps 1–4 of the soaking method. Before straining, leave the rice water to stand at room temperature for up to 2 days, allowing it to ferment. Strain the rice water into a clean bowl before use.

How to use rice water

Rice water can replace a commercial conditioner. To do this, a person should:

1. Wash hair with shampoo

2. Rinse thoroughly with water from the tap

3. Pour rice water onto their hair

4. Massage the rice water into the hair and scalp

5. Leave on for up to 20 minutes

6. Rinse hair thoroughly using warm water from the tap