Studies on Rice Bran and its benefits- A Review

Rice bran, a by-product of rice milling industry is rich in micronutrients like oryzanols, tocopherols, tocotrienols, phytosterols and dietary fibers. The high nutritional profile of rice bran has not been utilized due to problems associated with lipase enzyme, which reduces the quality of rice bran and makes it unfit for human consumption. After the stabilization of lipase enzyme, it is possible to derive highly nutritious value-added products of rice bran. Due to the presence of antioxidants, it helps in lowering plasma cholesterol, decreasing serum cholesterol, decreasing cholesterol absorption and decreasing platelet aggregation. It has also been used to cure hyperlipidemia, menopause disorders and to increase the muscle mass. The most widely accepted product of rice bran is its oil that has exceptional properties as compared to other vegetable oils. This review paper describes the distinct properties of rice bran as well as its health benefits.