Essential - Rice Bran and Germ Oil

Rice Bran and Germ Oil

Asian rice is classified as Oryza sativa.

Asian rice bran and germ oil is rich in linoleic acid Omega-6 Essential Fatty Acids (35%), oleic acid (Omega-9 monosaturated fats) (40%) and Vitamin E (32.3mg/100g).

The oil is also extremely rich in phytosterols (1190mg/100g or 167 mg/tbsp), mainly beta sitosterol.

Phytosterols have been shown to be as effective as conventional drugs for relieving frequent urination in aging men suffering from prostate conditions and quickly lower cholesterol.

The oil also contains a compound called gamma oryzanol that reduces absorption and increases excretion of cholesterol.

Gamma oryzanol is also an effective antioxidant. Research findings reported at a symposium sponsored by the American Heart Association indicate that Rice Bran Oil has the unique ability to lower harmful LDL cholesterol levels up to 30% without reducing HDL or "good" cholesterol that protects against heart attacks, and that "...people would need to consume less than two tablespoons of the oil a day to get the benefits."

These health benefits are due to rice bran oil's natural balance of mono and poly unsaturates, unsaponfiables, plant sterols which reduce cholesterol absorption, gamma oryzanol which reduces absorption and increases excretion of cholesterol and a significant amount of naturally occurring tocopherols (vitamin E).

Animal studies coupled with a human clinical trial have demonstrated that rice bran oil can be recommended for the replacement of saturated fat in the diet.

More importantly, ingredients such as oryzanol, which are unique to rice bran oil, have the ability to reduce blood cholesterol levels up to 40 percent and are associated with significant reductions in early atherosclerosis.

Rice oil also has a pleasant taste and can be used for its light, delicate flavor on salads.