Medicinal Benefits of Black Rice (Oryza Sativa L. Indica): A Review

Black rice (Oryza sativa L. indica) is also called purple rice (gluten free rice), emperor's rice (tribute food) and king's rice. It is abundantly grown worldwide, specifically in Asian countries such as Bangladesh, China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Thailand. In India, it is majorly found in north-eastern states, including Meghalaya, Assam, and Manipur, which are the cultivators of black rice. It is also considered a superfood owing to its potent antioxidant activity which mediates numerous health-beneficial effects with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-allergic characteristics. Black rice has a high nutritional value due to its rich source of various vitamins (A, B, E), amino acids and lipids, dietary fibre. The presence of the flavonoid plant pigment anthocyanin contributes to its purple-black colour and strong antioxidant properties. Other components like manganese and calcium support a healthy metabolism and stronger bones. Black rice is getting popularized in recent times because of its very low toxicity and higher nutritional qualities. This review focuses on the nutritional composition, toxicity, pharmacological uses and future opportunities of black rice for better health and well-being.