Gamma Oryzanol – What it is & Health Benefits
By Nmami Life Editorial 19-Mar 2021 Reading Time: 5 Mins
Gamma oryzanol is a material that is extracted from rice bran oil. Rice bran oil is extracted from the bran fraction of rice, the kernels or seeds of the rice plant. These seeds or bran hold wide varieties of gamma oryzanol, a mixture of antioxidant compounds. Gamma Oryzanol is also known by the names of Gama Orizanol, Gamma-Oryzanol, Gamma-OZ and Oryzanol.
This substance is also found in wheat bran and various other fruits and vegetables. Gamma Oryzanol is useful in treating various health complexities like high cholesterol levels, signs of menopause and ageing.
What are its uses?
By dropping the absorption of cholesterol in the foods, gamma oryzanol is believed to lower cholesterol levels but there are no scientific shreds of evidence that backed most of its practices. A lot of people even use this substance to increase testosterone levels in the body and to grow hormone levels but various researches suggest that there is no effect of this substance on these things.
Is it safe?
Gamma Oryzanol is considered safe if it is utilised in the recommended amounts. Purified gamma oryzanol has been used at a daily dose of 500 mg/day. There are no major side effects of this substance but if you have any allergies or medical problems, then consulting your doctor before consuming it can save you from various health glitches.
Health benefits of Gamma Oryzanol
- Help in lowering down high cholesterol levels: Various researches suggest that consumption of gamma oryzanol by mouth can decrease the total cholesterol levels by affecting bad cholesterol (LDL) and blood fats called triglycerides in those suffering from high cholesterol. Taking recommended quantities of gamma oryzanol along with vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and niacin by mouth can bring the results in high cholesterol levels within 4 months.
- Boost athletic performance: Early researches suggest that consumption of gamma oryzanol can boost athletic performance while improving muscular strength and stamina in people. However, with insufficient shreds of evidence, it is quite difficult to comment on its effectiveness.
- Can treat skin conditions: The extract of rice bran has been used in the cosmetic industry and is proved effective to enhance beauty while treating acne, pimples and dull skin. Early researches said that using gamma oryzanol on the skin for 6 months can treat various skin conditions like itchy and inflamed skin. There are no proper shreds of evidence for this fact and therefore rating its effectiveness for this purpose is quite difficult.
- Can treat the symptoms of menopause: Menopause comes with various distressing signs and symptoms. Early researches suggest that consumption of Gamma Oryzanol can ease out the symptoms of menopause while balancing the estrogen levels in the body. However, with insufficient pieces of evidence, it is quite difficult to comment on its effectiveness. Make sure that you always consult your doctor before consuming such substances.
Footnote
Gamma Oryzanol is used by many people as a medicine to treat various health glitches. There are no proper pieces of evidence that support the benefits of gamma-oryzanol and therefore consulting your doctor before the consumption is recommended.