Nutritional Composition
Dr. Emad Salama, a clinical nutrition specialist, explains that rice water is the liquid الناتج from soaking or boiling rice. It contains a range of beneficial vitamins, minerals, and starches. This rich composition has earned it the label of a “natural elixir,” as it combines elements that support overall health, making it a suitable addition to a balanced diet when used moderately and thoughtfully.

Health Benefits
When examining its health uses, rice water offers several potential benefits that may support various body functions:

• Digestion: Thanks to its starch content, it has soothing properties for the digestive system, making it helpful in cases of stomach disorders such as diarrhea or cramps. It helps calm the intestines and improve their internal environment.
• Hydration: It also contributes to hydration, especially after physical exertion, helping replenish fluids and some basic nutrients lost by the body.
• Immunity: It may support the immune system due to the presence of elements like iron, B vitamins, zinc, and magnesium, which contribute to strengthening the body’s defenses.
• Cramps: Some studies suggest that drinking warm rice water may help relieve menstrual pain by easing muscle contractions.
• Weight Management: It can be considered a suitable option for those looking to manage their weight, as it is low in calories and may promote a feeling of fullness while reducing the desire for sugary drinks.

Important Warning
Dr. Salama highlights a key safety concern related to the source of rice, known as “rice arsenic.” Rice absorbs arsenic from the soil at higher rates than other grains. Therefore, for those considering regular consumption of rice water, it is essential to use organic rice and wash it thoroughly before soaking. He also advises against excessive consumption, especially for children and pregnant women, to avoid the accumulation of heavy metals in the body.

A Haircare Trend
Beyond its health benefits, rice water has gained popularity in beauty and personal care, especially on social media. A new trend promotes using rice water as a hair rinse to improve hair health and stimulate growth, supported by videos that have garnered hundreds of millions of views.

This trend is based on the idea that rice bran extract, rich in minerals, may positively affect hair. As a result, many people have tried this home remedy—either using rice water directly or after fermentation—sometimes adding ingredients like citrus peels to improve the scent.

Scientific Perspective
Despite these claims, Dr. Khaled Ezzat, a dermatologist and cosmetic specialist, emphasizes that scientific evidence remains insufficient to confirm the effectiveness of rice water in improving hair health. While rice contains nutrients such as magnesium, iron, folic acid, and phenolic compounds, these benefits do not necessarily transfer with the same efficiency to homemade rice water.

He also explains an important technical point regarding inositol, a protein-like compound found in rice. Scientific studies suggest that it may penetrate damaged hair and repair it from within. However, the molecules present in homemade rice water may be too large to be effectively absorbed by the hair compared to refined laboratory extracts.

He further warns of possible adverse effects, as frequent use may lead to hair dryness due to its high starch content, which can strip moisture from the hair—especially for curly or fragile hair types. Additionally, the delivery of these nutrients to hair follicles is not as efficient as with specially formulated hair care products.

Fermented Rice Water
Within global trends, fermented rice water is often considered more effective than fresh rice water. The fermentation process (leaving the water at room temperature for 12–24 hours) increases antioxidant levels and turns the liquid slightly acidic, aligning with the natural pH of the scalp. This helps close the hair cuticle and protect it—an important technical detail often overlooked in random application.

An Alternative Explanation
Some experts suggest that the secret behind healthy hair in traditional practices may not be rice water alone, but rather an overall lifestyle, particularly diets rich in natural, minimally processed foods. Dermatologists also point out a common confusion between homemade rice water and rice bran extract used in some hair care products. Recent studies indicate that this extract may help prolong the hair growth phase—something that does not necessarily apply to traditional rice water, especially since rice bran is often removed during processing before reaching consumers.

Practical Advice
Accordingly, Dr. Khaled advises those seeking better hair health to focus on more impactful factors, such as reducing stress, treating scalp conditions, avoiding excessive heat styling, and relying on safe, proven products. Products containing mineral extracts from rice bran or similar ingredients may also be beneficial, as long as they are specifically designed to be safe for hair. Hair care depends not on a single remedy, but on a comprehensive system of healthy habits.

Beauty Benefits for Skin
Experts also highlight potential benefits for the skin. According to dermatology specialists, rice water may improve skin appearance thanks to its antioxidants and vitamins. It can be used as a natural toner to cleanse the skin or soothe mild irritation, such as sun exposure, providing a sense of comfort and freshness while enhancing overall radiance.

However, despite its many benefits, rice water should be used cautiously. It may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals, so it is advisable to test it on a small area of skin before use. It should also be kept away from the eyes and sensitive areas, and not overly diluted when used for therapeutic purposes, as this may reduce its effectiveness.

It is important to emphasize that rice water is not a substitute for medical treatment. Consulting a doctor is recommended, especially in specific health conditions or when taking medications, to ensure safe use.

A Natural Resource
In conclusion, rice water is far more than a liquid discarded in the kitchen—it is a natural resource with multiple potential benefits, both health-related and cosmetic. When used thoughtfully and based on scientific understanding, it can become a valuable addition to daily routines. However, achieving the best results requires balancing personal experimentation with professional guidance to avoid any unwanted outcomes.