Discovering the Unexpected Benefits of Rice Water

Many Japanese and Chinese women have long been aware of the benefits of rice water. After reading this article, you may think twice about discarding rice water.

1. Maintains Healthy Hair and Scalp

Rice water is believed to be the secret behind the smooth and shiny hair of Japanese girls. In ancient times, Japanese women would wash their hair with rice water to maintain its health and shine.

Rice water contains various vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, magnesium, vitamins B3 and B8, allantoin, and selenium. These essential nutrients help maintain scalp health, reduce breakage, and stimulate hair growth.

How to use:

Wet your hair with rice water, gently massage it into your scalp, and let it soak into the hair roots for 10 to 30 minutes before washing as usual. Consistency for about 2 months will yield noticeable improvements in your hair.

2. Soothes and Smoothes the Skin

Rice water offers several benefits for the skin, including:

– Anti-aging: Fermented rice water stimulates collagen production, improving sun-damaged skin, preventing wrinkles, and reducing dark spots.

– Sun protection: While not a substitute for sunscreen, the chemicals in rice water can enhance skin protection from the sun.

– Hydration: Rice water’s cleansing and soothing properties make it effective for those with dry or irritated skin.

How to use:

Soak a cotton pad in rice water and apply it to the face and neck area. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the skin to absorb the vitamins. Then rinse with clean water.

3. Stimulates Plant Growth

Rice water is also used to water plants as it enriches the soil with starch, promotes beneficial bacteria, and provides essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Some experts consider rice water to be even better than commercial fertilizers.

4. Cleansing Agent

For centuries, rice water has been used by the Chinese as a natural and cost-effective cleaning agent. The starch residue in rice water possesses abrasive and mildly acidic properties, making it effective in removing dirt and mineral deposits.

Rice water can be used to clean kitchen utensils, bathroom stains, and even toilets.

How to use:

Scrub the dirty area with rice water, let it sit for a few minutes, and then rinse with water. However, avoid using rice water on granite or natural stone countertops, as the acid content can damage the coatings.

5. Supports a Healthy Digestive System

Rice water has long been used as a natural remedy for digestive issues. In the 1980s, a study published in The Lancet revealed that boiling rice water has a calming effect on indigestion and helps improve digestive health in cases of acute diarrhea.

How to Make and Store Rice Water

– Plain rice water: Strain the rice water when cooking rice and separate it. This water can be used for hair care, skin cleansing, and watering plants. Plain rice water can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

– Fermented rice water: Soak 1 cup of rice in 2 cups of water for 24 hours. Then strain the water and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Fermented rice water is more effective for hair and skin care due to its higher antioxidant content.

– Boiled rice water: Wash the rice, add 4 parts water to 1 part rice, and boil until the rice is cooked. Then strain the water and boil it once again. Boiled rice water can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. It can be diluted before drinking if desired.

Source: Dân Trí