Rice water has long been one of the beauty secrets of Asian women. But it also contains many virtues for our organism.But what exactly is rice water? Nothing very mysterious; it's just the water that comes from cooking rice! It is full of vitamins and minerals, which are sources of many benefits. Every time you throw rice water after cooking it, you lose a magic lotion!Discover in this article, the unsuspected benefits of rice water.

1. Rice water, how to get it?

To be sure you get the best benefits of rice water. You must make sure to follow a few steps during its preparation. First, start by boiling your rice, taking care not to add salt. This should indeed be added to the rice only after having drained it. In addition, for best results, prefer organic white rice. Finally, once the rice is cooked, drain it and keep the excess water in a bowl. Put the bowl in the fridge, and use the rice water only after it has cooled down. You can keep your rice water for up to 6 days in the fridge.

2. Rice water: its health benefits

Rice is rich in B vitamins, potassium, zinc, iron, magnesium. When cooked, vitamins and minerals go directly into the water during cooking. This is why it is full of virtues known by wellness enthusiasts but unknown by most consumers.A true ally for the body, rice water should not be thrown away! Its components help beautify our skin and hair, in addition to regaining better digestion.

2.1 The benefits of rice water for health

The benefits of rice water are not limited to that aesthetic, but also health benefits, by drinking it, including:

2.1.1 Help digestion:

It is recommended to drink rice water in case of intestinal problems. Its fiber intake helps to better digest and protects the intestinal flora, and will avoid bloating related to poor digestion. Rice water also helps dehydration, which can be suffered in case of gastroenteritis and diarrhea. Boil the rice covered for 30 minutes to limit evaporation; you can add a spoon of honey if you don't like the taste.

2.1.2 Help to protect the body from cancer:

Regular consumption of rice water helps prevent cancer. Indeed, it has an effect on the pH of our body and, by helping to balance it, it allows it to strengthen the protection of our body against cancer.

2.1.3 It gives energy:

If you are sick, exhausted, or simply in lack of energy, take two glasses of rice water a day. Thanks to the nutrients it contains, it will give you the energy you have lost and will boost you. It is therefore recommended for the elderly and children, but also for women who have just given birth and who have not yet recovered their full strength.Athletes also use rice water. Indeed, it promotes muscle regeneration and provides the carbohydrates necessary to give us energy.

2.1.4 Other health benefits of rice water:

  • It helps to moisturize the body and protect it from dryness
  • Regulates internal body temperature
  • Reduces and contributes to the treatment of constipation.

Related: What are the benefits of rice? a source of protein, fiber and more!

3. The benefits of rice water on the skin

We already know rice powder well, one of the oldest beauty gestures there is. We loved it in the time of kings for its ability to hide small imperfections, to mattify the skin, and above all, to protect from the sun. A simple gesture, still relevant.In rice water, the concentration of antioxidants and inositol (an organic molecule that contributes to cell regeneration) is even higher. A boon for our skin and our tireless fight against loss of firmness and premature aging of the epidermis. As a lotion or mask on the face, this aqueous solution brings radiance and softness to the skin. It also has astringent properties by tightening pores and refining the skin texture, hydrating, and regenerating by stimulating cells.

3.1 Clear face

After washing the face, put a little rice water on it, as it is rich in vitamin B group that promotes cell growth, regenerates damaged, and slows down its aging process.

3.2 Smooth skin

Rice water acts as a natural conditioner by washing the face with this water.

3.3 Facial Cleanser

Rice water is very light and granular to the skin, so it helps clean it and add freshness to it.

3.4 Acne treatment

Rice water reduces redness and inflammation of acne by applying some of it to a piece of cotton and then applying it to the affected area.

3.5 reducing eczema

Just put it on the affected areas, and repeat it regularly. The results should start to show after a few applications.

4. The benefits of rice water on the hair

Rice water acts as an excellent hair lotion; it can completely replace your conditioner. Hair is smoother, easier to comb, and gains shine.

4.1 Protects the hair from damage

It reduces the problem of breaking hair and increases its elasticity, and it also protects it from additional damage.

4.2 Strengthening hair roots

Rice water is rich in essential amino acids for hair roots, which help nourish and strengthen them.

4.3 Makes the hair soft and shiny

Used as a conditioner, rice water is perfect for making your hair silky. After washing your hair, pour rice water on it and lightly rub your hair before rinsing it again, with clear water. The rice water will strengthen the hair and close the scales, which will give them a nice touch of shine.

5. Rice water: how to store it?

If you don't use all of the water, keep it in a bottle and put it in the fridge for 2 to 6 days. You can drink it at breakfast to boost yourself, use it as a cosmetic, or as a mask to prevent the effect of aging.

Originally published on Live Positively.