The Health Benefits of Rice Water: A Simple Remedy with Powerful Effects
Have you ever thought about using rice water—the starchy liquid left over after boiling rice—for your health? If not, you’re not alone. Many people discard rice water without realizing that it’s packed with nutrients and offers a range of surprising health benefits.
Used in traditional medicine for centuries in countries like China, Japan, and India, rice water is making a comeback as a natural remedy. It’s simple to prepare, easy to store, and gentle enough to be used by both adults and children.
In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare rice water, how to use it, and most importantly—why you should include it in your health routine.
🌾 What Is Rice Water?
Rice water is the milky white liquid that remains after cooking rice. It contains vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids, along with beneficial starches that support both internal and external health.
The best part? You probably already have everything you need to make it in your kitchen right now.
🍚 How to Make Rice Water
Ingredients:
½ cup white or brown rice
2–3 cups of clean water
A pot for boiling
A strainer
A clean bowl or jar for storing
Instructions:
Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove dirt and excess starch.
Place the rice in a pot and add the water.
Boil on medium heat until the rice is cooked.
Strain the water into a separate container.
Let it cool, and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
You can drink it warm, cold, or use it topically depending on your needs.
💧 Health Benefits of Rice Water
Now that you know how to make it, let’s explore some of the incredible things a single cup of rice water can do for your body and overall well-being:
1. Prevents Dehydration
During hot summer days or after physical activity, our bodies lose a significant amount of fluids through sweating. Drinking rice water helps replenish lost electrolytes and restore hydration. The natural sugars and salts in rice water help maintain fluid balance in the body, making it a great alternative to commercial electrolyte drinks.
2. Restores Energy Levels
Feeling tired or sluggish? Rice water is rich in carbohydrates, which the body converts into energy. Just one glass in the morning can give you the boost you need to start your day. It’s also great after exercise or during recovery from illness when your body needs quick energy without overloading the digestive system.
3. May Help Prevent Cancer
Some studies suggest that rice contains compounds with anti-cancer properties. While more research is needed, antioxidants found in rice water—especially from brown or unpolished rice—may help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer over time.
4. Natural Sun Protection
Rice water contains a compound called ferulic acid and oryzanol, which have antioxidant and UV-protective properties. Applying rice water topically can help soothe sunburn and protect the skin from UV damage. It’s not a replacement for sunscreen, but it’s a great addition to your natural skincare routine.
5. Relieves Diarrhea
Rice water is one of the best natural remedies for diarrhea, especially in young children. The starch in rice water helps bind stools, and its gentle, easy-to-digest nutrients calm the digestive system. It’s a commonly used solution in many cultures and is often more effective and safer than over-the-counter medications for mild cases.
6. Eases Constipation
Surprisingly, rice water helps with the opposite problem as well—constipation. It contains dietary fiber, which supports smooth bowel movements, and the starch acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in your gut. This makes it a natural and gentle remedy to restore digestive balance.
7. Supports Brain Health (May Prevent Alzheimer’s)
Recent studies have indicated that certain nutrients found in rice water, including antioxidants and vitamins B1 and E, may help protect cognitive function. There is ongoing research into how these compounds may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. While it’s not a cure, regularly consuming rice water may contribute to better brain health over time.
🧖♀️ Bonus: Rice Water for Skin & Hair
Aside from its internal benefits, rice water is widely praised for its cosmetic uses:
Skin toner: Tightens pores and reduces inflammation
Anti-aging properties: Antioxidants help reduce wrinkles and fine lines
Hair rinse: Strengthens hair, reduces dandruff, and promotes shine
Simply soak a cotton pad in cooled rice water and apply to your face, or pour rice water over your hair after shampooing, leave it for 5–10 minutes, and rinse.
✅ How Much Should You Drink?
For general wellness, 1–2 small glasses per day is ideal. It’s gentle on the stomach and safe for all ages. Always make sure the rice water is fresh and properly stored. If it smells sour or has been in the fridge for more than 3–4 days, discard it.
⚠️ A Few Precautions
While rice water is safe and natural, keep the following in mind:
Use clean, filtered water and high-quality rice.
Avoid adding salt or sugar, especially if using for medicinal purposes.
If you have chronic digestive issues, consult a healthcare provider before using rice water as a treatment.
📝 Final Thoughts
Rice water may seem simple, but it’s a nutritional powerhouse in disguise. It offers hydration, energy, digestive support, skin benefits, and even potential brain protection—all from something most of us throw away!
So next time you cook rice, think twice before draining the water. Instead, bottle it up and give your body a gentle, natural boost.
