Last Updated:January 20, 2026, 20:00 IST
Black Rice is often called ‘Forbidden Rice” or “Emperor’s Rice”.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi often expressed gratitude to the black rice growers in Manipur and Odisha. Addressing the 32nd International Conference of Agriculture Economists (ICAE) in 2024, the Prime Minister said, “Black rice from Manipur, Assam, and Meghalaya is the preferred choice due to its medicinal benefits.” Scroll ahead to know more about black rice and its health benefits.
Black rice is a nutrient-rich whole grain known for its deep purple-black colour and high antioxidant content. Often called “forbidden rice,” it is rich in fibre, protein, iron, and anthocyanins, which support heart health, boost immunity, and aid digestion.
Here are few reasons why black rice is considered as a superfood.
High Antioxident Content: Black rice contains more antioxidants than any other rice variety. It is packed with anthocyanins that neutralize free radicals, protecting your cells from oxidative stress and aging.
Heart Health: The flavonoids and phytochemicals in black rice help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Regular consumption is linked to a decreased risk of atherosclerotic plaque buildup in the arteries.
Natural Detoxifier: The phytonutrients present in the bran of black rice help the liver eliminate harmful toxins. It acts as a natural cleanser for the body’s internal systems.
Diabetes Management: With a lower Glycemic Index (GI) than white rice, black rice prevents rapid blood sugar spikes. It improves insulin sensitivity, making it an excellent grain for managing Type 2 diabetes.
Digestive Health: Being a whole grain, it is rich in dietary fiber (nearly double that of brown rice). This aids in regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Weight Management: The high fiber and protein content promote a feeling of fullness (satiety), which helps reduce overall calorie intake and curbs cravings, making it ideal for weight loss regimes.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Studies show that black rice helps inhibit the production of inflammatory compounds in the body, providing relief for chronic conditions like arthritis and allergies.
Eye Health: It contains significant amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids essential for eye health. These help protect the retinas from UV damage and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.