Other names for gamma oryzanol

Rice Bran Oil Extract
γ-Oryzanol
Ferulic Acid Ester Complex

Synopsis of gamma oryzanol

Gamma oryzanol is a naturally occurring mixture of ferulic acid esters of sterols and triterpene alcohols, primarily extracted from rice bran oil (Oryza sativa). It is a lipid-soluble compound recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hormone-modulating, and lipid-lowering properties. Structurally, gamma oryzanol consists of compounds such as cycloartenyl ferulate, campesteryl ferulate, and β-sitosteryl ferulate, which contribute to its physiological effects.

In modern health applications, gamma oryzanol is used to support cholesterol regulation, as it helps reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) while maintaining or improving HDL (good cholesterol), likely by inhibiting cholesterol absorption in the intestine and improving lipid metabolism. It is also used for menopausal symptom relief, particularly for hot flashes, mood swings, and mild anxiety, due to its mild modulatory effects on the autonomic nervous system and endocrine activity.

Gamma oryzanol is additionally used in sports nutrition, especially in body-building communities, where it is believed to support testosterone balance and lean muscle mass, although evidence for anabolic effects remains limited. It also shows promise in supporting gastric health, by enhancing mucosal protection and reducing gastric acidity, making it a potential aid for ulcers and indigestion.

It is typically taken in capsule or tablet form, dosed between 30–300 mg per day depending on the application.

Historical Use
While gamma oryzanol itself was isolated and studied in Japan in the 1950s, the medicinal use of its source—rice bran and rice bran oil—has a much longer history. In traditional Japanese Kampo medicine, rice bran was used in formulations to nourish the body, improve digestion, and reduce internal heat, and its oil was applied for skin conditions and as a general tonic.

In Ayurveda, rice and its byproducts were used to balance digestion, calm inflammation, and support reproductive health, although gamma oryzanol was not specifically known. The general practice of consuming whole grains and their bran layers for health and vitality aligns with the modern understanding of gamma oryzanol’s benefits.

With the growing interest in functional foods and nutraceuticals in the 20th century, Japan began incorporating gamma oryzanol into treatments for high cholesterol, menopausal complaints, and autonomic nervous system imbalances. It was approved in Japan as an over-the-counter supplement and functional food ingredient, where it remains widely used today.

Now recognized globally, gamma oryzanol represents the convergence of traditional rice-based nutrition and modern phytochemical science, with applications in cardiovascular health, hormonal balance, digestive support, and stress resilience.

Gamma oryzanol is used for these health conditions

Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)

This ingredient is used to support these body systems

Products containing gamma oryzanol