Rice water has been used in many cultures for thousands of years for its myriad of external and internal benefits. I've spoken about the importance of rice in TICM and Asian culture many times, and rice water is no different.
Rice water is simply the starchy water that remains after soaking or cooking rice.
Make your own rice water:
Use 1/2 cup of white rice and 2 cups of filtered water.
Briefly rinse the rice to remove any impurities or dirt.
Place the rice in a bowl and cover with the filtered water, move it around and let it soak for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Strain the rice and there you have your rice water.
Another traditional method is to cook the rice, just use double the amount of water than normal. Once the rice is cooked, the leftover water will be your rice water. Use filtered water for this method as well. Allow the water cool before use.
For use on skin, soak a clean cloth in the water, ring it out and place it on the desired area. Do it a few times until the skin is saturated in the liquid. You can also place the water in a spray bottle for use as a toner. For use on hair, use rice water in place of a conditioner and leave it on for 20 minutes and rinse. If you are going to drink it, I prefer using the cooked method and consuming a cup while still warm.
What can rice water be used for?
Skin: baby and adult eczema, acne, oily skin, dark marks on skin, sunburn. Can be used as a toner in its ability to shrink pores.
Hair: strengthens, detangles, smooths, volumizes and creates shine. Helps improve the natural growth and health of hair.
Body: provides energy, regulates body temperature, treats diarrhoea, bloating, constipation, high blood pressure. Helps to nourish and hydrate the body.