Pain balm from rice bran

Novel gel from Indian Institute of Rice Research-Hyderabad to hit markets soon

Hyderabad: A scientist at the Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR), Hyderabad, has developed rice bran oil-based novel pain-relieving gel. It provides topical composition for fast relief of aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with simple strains, bruises and sprains.

Rice bran, a by-product of the rice processing industry, is a potential source of edible and healthful products, according to Dr M Mohibbe Azam, Principal Scientist, Crop Improvement Section at IIRR.

It is a rich source of various micronutrients and antioxidants including vitamin E and oryzanol, high-quality oil and protein.

Rice bran oil contains various antioxidants including-oryzanol He said the present invention had provided compositions containing analgesic or anti-inflammatory agents dissolved in fast absorbing rice bran oil for quick penetration of the active components.

Explaining the composition of the product, Dr Azam said one aspect of the present invention relates to a topical preparation for pain relief in humans, wherein methyl salicylate, camphor, menthol, eucalyptus oil,

and clove oil were combined together to enhance the pain relief features. Moreover, rice bran oil would absorb quickly into the skin, so the penetration of the pain relief components of the composition is also quick.

Referring to the benefits of the pain relieving gel, the Scientist said the product is an herbal formulation containing rice bran oil as a carrier. Rice bran oil also contained various skin beneficial ingredients that help in revitalising the skin and keeping skin smooth,

supple and soft, protecting skin from environmental pollution, minimising the effects of sunburn and chapping and reducing the effects of dryness. The composition of the present invention is new, very safe, eco-friendly and would not produce any harmful effects.

Regarding feedback, he said 50 persons, both male and female, were provided with 50 g sample of pain relief composition, all users reported that they were extremely satisfied with the the product. They got immediate relief from muscle pain/sprain/joint pain, he said.

Dr Azam said commercially available topical compositions were often used to treat sore muscles, pain associated with the joints of a body, arthritis and other similar conditions. Many of these topical compositions were thick and have a heavy texture.

Such products typically would take a considerable amount of time to reach the desired area of treatment.He said the composition also provided in the treatment of arthritis in elderly patients, tendonitis, neuralgia, and sports-related injuries.

Overall, because of fast absorbing properties of rice bran oil in the skin, active ingredients of the formulation also get absorbed quickly and provide quick relief from pain.

By:V Naveen Kumar