If you suffer from fizzy, dull, dry hair that tangles easily, split ends and breakage then this article is for you! Scroll down to learn more about how Fermented Rice Water can change the health and appearance of your hair.
Fermentation as a Beauty Secret
We are all very familiar with the incredible impact of fermented foods and fermented beverages on our GI (Gastro-Intestinal) tract and how it aids our immunity, but cultured food implementation goes way beyond the gut!
The use of Fermented Rice Water in hair has been a longtime beauty secret of the Red Yao tribe in Asia. Referred to as the “Worlds Longest Hair Village”, they are also known as the “Land of Rapunzels” because the women all have incredibly long, strong and shinny hair. Amazingly the “Rapunzels” of the village do not develop gray hair until they are into their late eighties. That’s because they wash their hair with Fermented Rice Water– the water that’s left over after soaking rice. Instead of throwing it away, they allow it to sit for a few days before using it to wash and rinse their hair. But that’s not all they use it for. Female farmers in parts of China, Japan and Southern Asian countries bathe in the water to give them healthy, glowing skin.
The reason for this phenomenon is the amino acids that are presented in the Cultured Rice Water. They strengthen the hair roots, add volume and sheen, and make the hair look and feel silky and smooth. The starchy rice water also improves manageability and protects hair form styling damage.
What’s in Rice Water?
Rice water is rich in antioxidants, minerals, B vitamins and vitamin E. It also contains trace amounts of pitera, a clear liquid produced during the natural fermentation process. Containing over 50 micronutrients, it is an excellent source of peptides, proteins, among acids, carbohydrates and organic acids. Many experts regard pitera as an anti-aging elixir, as it promotes cell regeneration. Due to its high acidity, fermented rice water can balance and restore the pH of your hair. Specialized imaging techniques show that even after the rice water is rinsed off, inositol stays inside the hair continuing to act as a shield protecting your hair from damage. According to a 2012 study, fermented substances have higher amount of antioxidants, which also help to protect agains free radicals and environmental damage.
How to Prepare Fermented Rice Water:
Soaking is the quickest way to make Rice Water. To use this method follow these easy instructions:
- start with 1/2 cup of uncooked rice
- rinse throughly
- place rice in the bowl with 2-3 cups of water
- leave to soak/cement for about 24-48 hrs
- strain the rice water into a clean spray bottle
How to use Fermented Rice Water:
Rice Water can replace a commercial conditioner. Here is how:
- wash hair with shampoo
- rinse thoroughly with tap water
- spray rice water heavily onto hair
- massage into hair and scalp
- leave on for up to 20 min (or longer)
- rinse thoroughly using warm water
- comb hair through preferably with a wooden our stone comb
Many people find Rice Water to be a beneficial hair treatment. Historical examples and anecdotal evidence suggest that Fermented Rice Water may improve:
- strength
- hair growth
- texture
Using a Fermented Rice Water hair rinse is safe to try at home. BONUS: it can also be used on the skin and has been known to help people who suffer with dermatitis.
Let us know how your hair feels after trying this natural treatment. Did you notice a difference?
Comment below and let’s stay in touch!
