Introduction
Oryzanol, also known as gamma-oryzanol, is a white to white-yellowish, crystalline, odorless powder. It consists of phytosterols esterified with ferulic acid (an organic compound from the phenolic acid group) and is extracted from rice germ oil. Oryzanol is an active ingredient found exclusively in rice that can, among other things, reduce cholesterol and blood lipid levels and protect the cardiovascular system. It also stimulates the metabolism for muscle formation, prevents fatigue and aids digestion. But oryzanol also has an extremely positive effect on our skin.
The unique power of the rice plant
The rice plant (Oryza sativa) comes from the large family of sweet grasses. It is still mainly cultivated in Asia today. Rice bran, which is known to be very high in fat, consists of the pericarp, the seed coat, the aleurone layer, and the germ of the rice grain. Since these components contain more than 30 percent oxidation-sensitive lipids, rice bran is usually removed. The result is the familiar polished rice that we use in the kitchen. Ferulic acid esters protect the plant from light- and heat-induced oxidation.
In 1954, oryzanol was isolated from bran oil for the first time. In subsequent investigations and studies, it was identified as a phytosterol mixture. In nutritional physiology, oryzanol is considered a cholesterol-lowering dietary supplement.
However, the substance also has a very pronounced natural ability to absorb UVA and UVB rays. This makes it ideal for use in natural cosmetic sunscreen products, as it can effectively and sensibly supplement physical sunscreen filters. However, this secondary protection cannot be expressed in a specific sun protection factor, but is based on the reduction of light-induced degenerative damage to collagen and elastic fibers. Many well-known cosmetics companies use oryzanol in sun care and special products for mature skin. The substance acts as an antioxidant, especially in combination with tocopherol and ascorbyl palmitate. Studies have shown that ferulic acid can inhibit the formation of oxygen radicals, which are produced during oxidative stress. This also reduces the inflammatory effect of various messenger substances.
Oryzanol as an ideal ingredient in natural skin care
Oryzanol is ideal as an oxidation-stabilizing or UV-absorbing component in various emulsions and as a highly effective, antistatic additive in hair care. The substance is able to inhibit the oxidation of emulsion lipids in the same way as the skin’s own lipids, thus stabilizing the emulsions.
Due to its stimulating effect on the sebaceous glands in combination with its barrier-strengthening effect, oryzanol is mainly used in the care of mature, dry, and low-fat skin. In combination with its light-protective effect, oryzanol has repeatedly proven to be an ideal active ingredient against premature, light-induced skin aging. Depending on the dosage, it leaves the skin feeling very rich, pleasant, and enveloped. Another advantage is that its unusually high melting point in emulsions even gives it a consistency-enhancing effect.
Oryzanol is used not only in sun care products, light-exposed products, and hair care lotions, but also in nourishing lip cosmetics.
In Japan, oryzanol has been used as a medicine for around 40 years due to its excellent antioxidant effect, for example as a natural cholesterol-lowering agent or muscle stimulator.
Oryzanol at a glance
INCI: Oryzanol
CAS number: 11042-64-1
Dosage: 0.2 to 2.5 percent
Effect: antioxidant, UV light-absorbing, anti-inflammatory, barrier-protecting
Melting point: 135 to 154 degrees Celsius
Processing: can be melted very well with oxidation-stable oils at around 100 degrees Celsius in the fat phase
Solubility: very soluble in chloroform and ethyl methyl ketone, but difficult to dissolve in polar liquids such as water.
Conclusion: Oryzanol
Oryzanol is an ingredient in rice germ oil that was discovered and researched in the early 1950s and has a high ferulic acid content. This makes it ideal for use as a natural antioxidant. The substance is also ideal as an effective light protection filter of natural origin. It is perfect for use on mature, dry skin and in sunscreen formulations, as it is not only effective but also feels pleasant on the skin and is very well absorbed. To date, there are virtually no known side effects. Oryzanol is extremely versatile: it can be used in hair care products, natural sunscreen, and lip care products.
We use the active ingredient oryzanol described above in our high-quality private label products, which meet the highest standards of effectiveness, skin compatibility, and innovation. We combine proven ingredients with modern biotechnological developments to create tailor-made formulations that meet the individual needs of your target group. Our focus is on quality, transparency, and the optimal synergy of all ingredients—for visible results and a compelling brand experience.
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