Year of the Rice
The '(y)ear of rice revolution' is here, and it's more than just a trend – it's a testament to the hidden potential within the ordinary.
By
Azhaar Abdul Azeez
Rice, the staple grain feeding billions, is shedding its ‘muskulhi’ image and stepping into the spotlight with trending purposes, which seem new to our muffled minds, but are actually age-old customs practised all over the world. Of course, when globalisation has put the whole world on one platform, it has become much easier to discover such treasure.
Rice and its magical water are trending across various applications, from hair masks to plant food. Atoll Times bring to you a dear little list compiled from global trends that caught on in the middle of 2023 and has been passed on to 2024.
Beauty Boosters
Hair Hero
Anecdotal evidence (evidence based on personal accounts) and emerging research suggest rice water's starch and minerals improve hair health.
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Reduce breakage by coating hair strands, adding volume and shine
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Promote growth through inositol, a carbohydrate thought to aid hair follicle health
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Soothes the scalp with its anti-inflammatory properties, easing conditions like dandruff
Skin Soother
Rice water's gentle nature makes it a popular choice for sensitive skin.
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Minimizes irritation: soothing eczema and acne with its anti-inflammatory properties.
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Brightens complexion. Some believe it inhibits melanin production, leading to a more even tone
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Promote collagen production. Some studies actually suggest that it could improve skin elasticity
Beyond Beauty
Garden Guru
Rice water's nutrients make it a fantastic natural fertilizer for your cute, cluttered gardens on your balcony or terrace. Just save the water after you rinse your rice.
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Provides essential minerals, potentially boosting plant growth with potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen
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Improves soil quality. The starch acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial soil microbes
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Eco-friendly option: repurposes kitchen scraps instead of chemical fertilizers
Health Hero
Fermented rice water, a traditional beverage in some cultures, is gaining traction for its potential health benefits. Saibrew Kombucha, an enchantng group of locals are already ahead in gut health promotion, and now theres more!
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Gut Soother: probiotics in fermented rice water aids digestion and can improve gut health
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Immune Booster. Some early studies suggest it could enhance immunity
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Hydration Helper: like coconut water, it offers electrolytes and carbohydrates for rehydration
Rice-lly Cool Uses
Cleaning Champion
As people are becoming more aware of the hazardous chemicals present in their everyday cosmetics and cleaning solutions, an organic alternative such as rice water's starch should make the organic-hunt easier by a couple steps, at least.
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Polishing surfaces: leaving windows and mirrors streak-free
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Freshening furniture: reviving the shine of wooden surfaces
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Washing dishes: a gentle alternative to harsh detergents
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Soften fabrics: leaving clothes feeling naturally soft and supple
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Brighten white clothes: the starch acts as a mild whitening agent
So, the next time you cook or rinse rice, remember it's more than just our favourite comfort food. With its diverse applications, rice has become a true multi-tasking wonder, enriching our lives from head to toe, garden to home. The '(y)ear of rice revolution' is here, and it's more than just a trend – it's a testament to the hidden potential within the ordinary.
