With so many “miracle serums” and “amazing Hair growth products” out there, you may find yourself asking, “Do any of these actually work?” Given that most people want to have silkier, thicker hair, people purchase these products and expose their bodies to a variety of chemicals. It’s time to look past enticing marketing materials and focus your attention to an ingredient in your kitchen.

According to historical accounts, women during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) in Japan had hair that went down to the floor. Their secret was that they continuously bathed and combed their hair with Rice water. A modern day equivalent would be the Yao women in China, who are famous for their hair that reaches up to six feet in length. They even have rich, black hair well into their 70s!

What Is Rice Water?

Rich in vitamins and minerals that nourish the hair and skin, rice water is the starchy water that is left over after soaking rice. Rice water contains amino acids, vitamin E, B-vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which help with hair growth. Not only is it beneficial for your hair, but it is also the simplest DIY beauty product you’ll ever make. All you need is rice and filtered water.

Unfortunately, there is no scientific evidence that supports the claim that rice water strengthens hair. Most of the accounts are anecdotal, but current success stories can also be seen online in modern DIY beauty bloggers. People may find success using rice water, but the health of your hair also has to do with diet and the beauty products you use. If you are interested in trying out this technique, follow the instructions below.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
• 1 cup filtered water

Instructions:

• Rinse and strain the rice with tap water to help remove any impurities, which you don’t want on your hair.
• Mix the strained rice and filtered water in a medium bowl until the water becomes cloudy.
• Strain the rice, reserving the water in an airtight plastic container. You can cook the rice now!
• Let the rice water in the container sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours (not more than 24, though) to allow a little fermentation to happen. This is how the vitamins and minerals come out. You can then refrigerate it for up to a week after these initial hours at room temperature.
• Before refrigerating the rice water, you can transfer it to little jars because pouring the rice water from a bowl onto your head can be tricky.

How To Use:

• After completing your regular shampoo and conditioner routine, bust out the rice water. When you pour it on your hair, try to focus it on your scalp at first and work your way out.
• Let it sit in your hair (you can comb it through if you like) for about two or three minutes before rinsing.

Rice water is also beneficial for the skin and you can use it as a cleanser. Make rice water as instructed and then dip a cotton ball into the liquid. Gently massage this on your face, or areas with acne, eczema, or irritated skin for a couple minutes. The most important thing when using rice water on your skin is to let it air dry to let your skin absorb the nutrients. Use this every day to help improve skin elasticity and achieve more radiant skin.

Sources:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321353.php

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2010.00605_3.x

https://www.healthline.com/health/rice-water#4

https://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2015/04/the-beauty-benefits-of-rice-water.html

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