Gamma oryzanol, derived from rice bran oil, is a natural compound that has gained attention for its potential benefits in promoting joint health. Research suggests that gamma oryzanol possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to reducing joint inflammation and protecting against oxidative damage. In this blog, we will explore the potential benefits of gamma oryzanol for joint health, delving into its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and discussing how it may support joint function.
Scientific Facts:
-
Gamma oryzanol has been suggested to possess anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is associated with joint conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and reducing inflammation may help alleviate joint pain and improve joint function.
-
Some studies suggest that gamma oryzanol may help reduce cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition that may impact joint health due to reduced blood flow and nutrient supply to the joints.
-
Gamma oryzanol has been investigated for its potential effects on hormone regulation, particularly related to menopause. Some joint symptoms, such as joint pain and stiffness, are associated with hormonal changes during menopause. By modulating hormonal activity, gamma oryzanol might indirectly affect joint health in menopausal women.
-
Gamma oryzanol has been explored for its potential benefits in athletes and individuals involved in physical activity. Some studies suggest that it may enhance endurance, reduce fatigue, and support muscle recovery.
Benefits:
-
Lower Cholesteral: Several studies have highlighted its anti-hypercholesterolemic activity. Through various mechanisms, gamma-oryzanol has been shown to lower serum total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), commonly referred to as "bad cholesterol." It can enhance the excretion of cholesterol and its metabolic products, contributing to a reduction in blood cholesterol levels. Moreover, gamma-oryzanol's ability to inhibit oxidative stress, regulate lipid metabolism, and influence the activities of enzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis and metabolism further supports its cholesterol-lowering effects. This makes gamma-oryzanol a promising natural option for individuals looking to manage their cholesterol levels effectively.
-
Insulin Sensitivity: Gamma-oryzanol offers potential benefits for diabetes management and insulin function based on the summarized articles. It has been suggested that gamma-oryzanol can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance, which are key factors in type 2 diabetes. By enhancing insulin signaling pathways, gamma-oryzanol may contribute to better glucose uptake by cells and improved glycemic control. Furthermore, gamma-oryzanol has antioxidative properties that could help mitigate oxidative stress, a condition often exacerbated in diabetes. This antioxidative effect might protect pancreatic beta cells, responsible for insulin production, from damage caused by oxidative stress.
-
Liver health: Gamma-oryzanol exhibits hepatoprotective properties against various liver injuries induced by factors such as drug toxicity (e.g., acetaminophen), chemical agents (e.g., CCl4), and alcohol (ethanol). It helps prevent liver damage and fibrosis caused by these agents by modulating oxidative stress, inhibiting inflammatory reactions, and promoting antioxidant activity. Gamma-oryzanol's ability to reduce markers of hepatic damage, lower liver enzyme levels, and counteract lipid peroxidation contributes to its hepatoprotective role.
-
Anti Anxiety: Chronic stress is believed to contribute to brain degeneration and compromised function, heightening the risk of neuropsychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, and dementia. In a study involving mice subjected to chronic restraint stress (CRST), γ-oryzanol, a natural compound, was explored for its potential anti-anxiety effects. The experiment showed that γ-oryzanol exhibited anxiolytic properties, significantly reducing anxiety-like behaviors. It counteracted stress-induced weight loss, and its influence on neurotransmitter levels in various brain regions indicated its potential in mitigating the impact of chronic stress on brain function. Particularly in the elevated plus maze test, γ-oryzanol increased time spent in open arms and decreased closed arm distance, indicative of strong anxiolytic effects. These findings suggest that γ-oryzanol holds promise as a natural agent for alleviating anxiety, potentially by modulating neurotransmitter activity in the brain.
-
Antioxidative: Gamma oryzanol has been found to exhibit antioxidant properties. Oxidative stress plays a role in the development and progression of joint diseases, and antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, potentially protecting joint tissues from damage.
-
Muscle Enhancing: The antioxidative properties of Gamma oryzanol are believed to effect hormone function. This may lead to a reduction in fatigue and potentially have an anabolic effect on muscle growth, aiding in muscle enhancement.
-
Relieving joint pain: Gamma oryzanol may potentially help alleviate joint pain by reducing inflammation, by targeting and reducing inflammation, it could offer relief for individuals experiencing joint discomfort.
In summary, gamma oryzanol derived from rice bran oil shows potential as a natural compound that can contribute to joint health. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are believed to assist in reducing joint inflammation and protecting against oxidative damage.
Reference data:
K. A. Szczesniak, P. Ostaszewski, A. Ciecierska and T. Sadkowski
"Investigation of nutriactive phytochemical – gamma-oryzanol in experimental animal models"
Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Science – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
Akkarach Bumrungpert, PhD, Rewadee Chongsuwat, PhD, Chanchira Phosat, PhD, and Arisa Butacnum, MSc
"Rice Bran Oil Containing Gamma-Oryzanol Improves Lipid Profiles and Antioxidant Status in Hyperlipidemic Subjects: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial"
THE JOURNAL OF ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE Volume 00, Number 00, 2018, pp. 1–6
Y. Poorna Chandra Rao, D. Sugasini, B.R. Lokesh
"Dietary gamma oryzanol plays a significant role in the antiinflammatory activity of rice bran oil by decreasing pro-inflammatory mediators secreted by peritoneal macrophages of rats"
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications
Aasiya Sulaiman, Aisha Sulaiman, Mehtap Sert, Mohammed Safwan Ali Khan and Mansoor A. Khan
"Functional and Therapeutic Potential of γ-Oryzanol"
Web of Science™ Core Collection (BKCI)
