# Black Rice Bran (Oryza sativa)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/black-rice-bran
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-04-03
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Seed Oils
**Also Known As:** Black rice pericarp, Purple rice bran, Forbidden rice bran, Anthocyanin-rich rice bran, Pigmented rice bran, Black glutinous rice bran, Hei mi bran, Karuppu arisi bran

## Overview

Black rice bran, derived from Oryza sativa, is rich in anthocyanins—particularly cyanidin-3-glucoside—which drive its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) effects by suppressing NF-κB signaling and modulating cytokine production. Clinical evidence supports its role in reducing systemic inflammation markers and improving immune function in aging populations.

## Health Benefits

• Reduces [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers: Significantly decreased C-reactive protein (CRP) and borderline reduction in IL-6 in a 24-week RCT with 120 elderly volunteers (Strong evidence)
• Supports healthy aging: Increased IGF-1 levels and improved CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratios in the same clinical trial (Strong evidence)
• May provide neuroprotection: In vitro studies show protection against Aβ-induced [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and apoptosis in neuronal cells (Preliminary evidence)
• Potential anticancer properties: Cell studies demonstrate 25-30% antitumoral effects and reduced cancer cell migration via PI3K/AKT pathway inhibition (Preliminary evidence)
• May help blood sugar control: Clinical trials suggest black rice reduced postprandial glucose by 30-35% versus white rice (Moderate evidence)

## Mechanism of Action

Black rice bran's primary bioactive compound, cyanidin-3-glucoside, inhibits the NF-κB transcription factor pathway, thereby downregulating [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s such as IL-6 and reducing hepatic synthesis of C-reactive protein (CRP). Its anthocyanins also act as direct antioxidants by scavenging [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (ROS) and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which mitigates oxidative stress-driven inflammation. Additionally, black rice bran polysaccharides may stimulate IGF-1 secretion and modulate T-lymphocyte differentiation, improving the CD4+/CD8+ ratio as a marker of adaptive immune competence.

## Clinical Summary

A 24-week randomized controlled trial involving 120 elderly volunteers is the primary clinical evidence base for black rice bran supplementation, demonstrating significant reductions in C-reactive protein and a borderline reduction in IL-6, alongside increased IGF-1 levels and improved CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratios. These outcomes suggest meaningful [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and immunosenescence-attenuating effects in older adults. The evidence is classified as strong for the inflammation and immune aging endpoints given the RCT design, adequate sample size, and duration. However, independent replication in other populations and dose-ranging studies are still needed to confirm optimal dosing and generalizability.

## Nutritional Profile

Black rice bran oil is primarily composed of lipids (~18-23% oil content of bran by weight). Fatty acid profile: oleic acid (omega-9, ~32-38%), linoleic acid (omega-6, ~36-42%), palmitic acid (~18-22%), stearic acid (~2-3%), and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3, ~1-2%). Notably rich in unsaponifiable matter (~4-5% of oil, significantly higher than white rice bran oil's ~3-4%), containing: gamma-oryzanol complex (~1.5-2.5% of oil, comprising ferulic acid esters of sterols and triterpene alcohols including cycloartenyl ferulate, 24-methylenecycloartanyl ferulate, and campesteryl ferulate); tocotrienols and tocopherols (total tocols ~300-500 mg/kg oil, with alpha-tocotrienol, gamma-tocotrienol, and alpha-tocopherol as dominant forms); phytosterols (~1,000-1,500 mg/kg oil, primarily beta-sitosterol, campesterol, stigmasterol). Black rice bran uniquely contains anthocyanins concentrated in the bran layer (~200-400 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside equivalents per 100g dry bran), predominantly cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and peonidin-3-O-glucoside, which are largely absent or removed in fully refined oil but present in cold-pressed or minimally processed versions. Protein content of whole bran: ~12-15g/100g (bran basis), containing essential amino acids including lysine (~4.2g/100g protein) and methionine (~2.3g/100g protein). Dietary fiber in whole bran: ~20-25g/100g, comprising arabinoxylan and [beta-glucan](/ingredients/condition/immune-support). Minerals in bran fraction: magnesium (~781mg/100g), phosphorus (~1386mg/100g), zinc (~4.3mg/100g), iron (~14.3mg/100g). B vitamins in bran: thiamine (~1.5mg/100g), niacin (~35mg/100g), pantothenic acid (~3.0mg/100g). Bioavailability notes: gamma-oryzanol has moderate oral bioavailability (~5-10% absorbed intact); anthocyanin bioavailability is low (~1-2%) but microbial metabolites extend systemic effect; tocotrienol absorption is enhanced when consumed with dietary fat; co-administration with piperine reported to improve gamma-oryzanol absorption in animal models. Phytate content in bran (~9g/100g) may reduce mineral bioavailability unless bran is fermented or phytase-treated.

## Dosage & Preparation

The clinically studied dosage in the 24-week RCT was not explicitly quantified, described only as 'black rice germ and bran supplement' taken daily. In vitro studies used anthocyanin extracts at 100-200 µg/ml, but these cannot be translated to human doses. No standardization for anthocyanin content was specified. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Black rice bran is generally considered safe when consumed at dietary or supplemental levels, with no serious adverse events reported in the 24-week clinical trial. Because its anthocyanins influence platelet aggregation and [NF-κB](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) signaling, caution is warranted in individuals taking anticoagulants such as warfarin or antiplatelet drugs like aspirin and clopidogrel, as additive effects may increase bleeding risk. Individuals with known grain or rice allergies should exercise caution, and those with diabetes should monitor [blood glucose](/ingredients/condition/weight-management), as rice bran fractions can modestly affect glycemic response. Safety data for pregnant or lactating women is insufficient, so use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not currently recommended without medical supervision.

## Scientific Research

A 24-week randomized controlled trial (PMC7215642) with 120 healthy volunteers aged 65-74 tested black rice germ and bran supplementation, showing significant reductions in [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers and improvements in aging biomarkers. Limited additional human studies exist, though references note black rice reduced postprandial glucose by 30-35% in clinical trials.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Black rice has historical use in Asian traditional medicine systems including Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda as a tonic for kidney health, blood circulation, and [anti-aging](/ingredients/condition/longevity). These pigmented rice varieties have been consumed for centuries in regions like China and India, though specific bran use is not detailed in traditional texts.

## Synergistic Combinations

Exercise, Vitamin D, Omega-3 fatty acids, Turmeric, Green tea extract

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the main active compound in black rice bran?

The primary bioactive compound in black rice bran is cyanidin-3-glucoside, an anthocyanin pigment responsible for the grain's deep purple-black color. This compound is the main driver of its anti-inflammatory effects through NF-κB pathway inhibition and its antioxidant activity via Nrf2/HO-1 activation.

### How does black rice bran reduce inflammation?

Black rice bran reduces inflammation primarily through cyanidin-3-glucoside's inhibition of NF-κB, a transcription factor that controls expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α. This downstream effect leads to lower hepatic CRP synthesis, as demonstrated by significant CRP reductions in a 24-week RCT of 120 elderly participants.

### What does the clinical research say about black rice bran for aging?

A 24-week randomized controlled trial in 120 elderly volunteers found that black rice bran supplementation significantly increased IGF-1 levels and improved the CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio, both biomarkers associated with healthier immune aging. These findings suggest it may help attenuate immunosenescence, though independent replication is needed to confirm these results across broader populations.

### Can black rice bran interact with any medications?

Black rice bran anthocyanins have mild antiplatelet properties, meaning they may potentiate the effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin or antiplatelet agents like aspirin and clopidogrel, potentially increasing bleeding risk. Individuals on these medications should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing with black rice bran extract.

### Is black rice bran the same as black rice extract or black rice oil?

No—black rice bran is the outer layer of the Oryza sativa grain, rich in anthocyanins and fiber, while black rice extract is typically a concentrated anthocyanin isolate and black rice oil is pressed from the bran and germ, containing primarily tocotrienols, gamma-oryzanol, and fatty acids. Each product has a distinct nutrient profile and different evidence base for health benefits.

### What is the recommended daily dose of black rice bran, and how should it be taken?

Clinical studies demonstrating anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits typically used 10–30 grams of black rice bran daily, divided into doses taken with meals to optimize absorption. Starting with 10 grams daily and gradually increasing to assess tolerance is advisable, as the high fiber content may cause digestive adjustment in some individuals. Taking black rice bran with food enhances the absorption of its fat-soluble antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins.

### Is black rice bran safe for elderly individuals and children?

Black rice bran appears safe for elderly individuals, as the primary clinical evidence comes from a 120-person trial in elderly volunteers showing significant benefits with no serious adverse effects reported. For children, no specific safety data exists, though black rice bran is a whole-food ingredient with a long culinary history in Asian populations; pediatric use should be discussed with a healthcare provider. The main consideration in both populations is the high fiber content, which may require gradual introduction to avoid digestive discomfort.

### How does black rice bran compare to other grain brans in terms of antioxidant content and effectiveness?

Black rice bran contains uniquely high concentrations of anthocyanins—the same purple pigments found in blueberries—making it one of the most anthocyanin-rich grain products available, whereas brown rice bran and wheat bran contain significantly lower levels of these compounds. Clinical evidence specifically supporting black rice bran's anti-inflammatory effects (measured by CRP reduction) is stronger than generalized data for other grain brans, though comparative head-to-head trials are limited. The anthocyanin profile of black rice bran may also provide superior neuroprotective benefits compared to non-pigmented grain brans based on preliminary in vitro research.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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