Joha Rice

Facts for Prelims

Joha Rice

News: Recently, researchers at the Institute of Advanced Studies in Science and Technology explored the nutraceutical properties of Joha rice to investigate its potential benefits.

What is Joha Rice?
• Joha rice is an aromatic rice variety grown in northeastern India. Traditional claims suggest that Joha rice consumers have a lower risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
• Joha rice contains several antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolics, which contribute to its beneficial effects. Some of the identified bioactive compounds in Joha rice include oryzanol, ferulic acid, tocotrienol, caffeic acid, catechuic acid, gallic acid, and tricin. These compounds have reported antioxidant, hypoglycaemic, and cardio-protective effects.

Key Findings:
• The researchers discovered two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and linolenic acid (omega-3), through laboratory analysis. These fatty acids, which the human body cannot produce, play a role in maintaining various physiological conditions.
• Omega-3 fatty acid has been found to prevent metabolic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. In diabetic rats, Joha rice was effective in reducing blood glucose levels and preventing the onset of diabetes.
• Additionally, the researchers found that scented Joha rice has a more balanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids compared to the commonly consumed non-scented variety.