Do You Want Beautiful, Long, Strong & Shiny Hair? Here Are The Asian Herbalists' Secret, Try Rice Water!

Dec 30, 2025

Authored by: Adeeba

Reviewed by: Kapil Dhameja

Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

Being a Korean herbalist, I always smile when people ask, “Is rice water just a trend?”

Rice water is not a trend at all for us in Korea, it's a quiet piece of our history. Generations of Korean women, especially the court ladies of the Joseon era, used milky white rice water to wash their hair and bring strength, shine, and softness. My grandmother still calls it baeksu mul, a simple remedy that carries the scent of home, care, and tradition.

What intrigues me is how beautifully this wisdom connects with other cultures, especially India. As I began learning about Ayurveda, I was in awe at the depth with which Indian tradition values natural, gentle nourishment. Ingredients like amla, fenugreek, neem, and bhringraj hold the same place of respect in India that rice water holds in Korea.

In both our cultures, beauty is not just about the looks; it's about health, balance, and mindful rituals. We believe that nature gives us everything we need; we just have to understand how to use it.

Table of Contents

What Is Rice Water?
Benefits of Rice Water for Hair
Types of Rice Water: Which is Most Effective?
How to Make Rice Water
How to Apply Rice Water Based on Various Hair Concerns
Ayurvedic Enhancers to Add with Rice Water
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Who should not use Rice water
Best Ayurvedic Products to Use Along with Rice Water
FAQs About Using Rice Water for Hair

What Is Rice Water?

When we wash rice in Korea, the water gradually becomes murky and milky. This little liquid, which we usually drain out, is what we refer to as rice water, or baeksu mul in Korean. It contains a natural blend of:

Vitamins: B category, which feeds hair

Minerals
Amino acids
Antioxidants
A small amount of starch

These nutrients are released when rice grains are soaked, rinsed, or boiled. Korean women used to collect this water and wash their hair with it, as they believed that it made the strands stronger, smoother, and easier to grow.

Today, people all over the world use rice water, but to us, it still feels like an old friend, a quiet household remedy passed down through mothers and grandmothers.

Benefits of Rice Water for Hair

1. Strengthens Hair Roots

Rice water is naturally packed full of amino acids-the raw materials that constitute hair. These nutrients help strengthen the roots, thus the hair will be less likely to break, which Korean women cherished because it allowed them to have longer braids.

2. The starch in rice water

Forms a thin, protective layer over the strands. Like the soft, shiny finish that the famous Korean court ladies used to have, this coating makes the hair feel smoother, look shinier, and stay less frizzy.

3. Helps Keep Hair from Breaking

Inositol is a carbohydrate in rice water that helps repair hair that has been damaged. After rinsing, this carbohydrate stays on the hair shaft and makes it stronger for a long time.

4. Rice water doesn't make hair grow faster

The nutrients in it create a healthy environment that helps hair grow. As is always said in Korean herbal practice: a calm scalp is a growing scalp.

5. It soothes irritated or itchy scalps.

The fermented rice water performs mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions, soothing the irritation and helping to maintain the scalp environment.

6. Improves Elasticity

Healthy elasticity is when your hair stretches but doesn't snap, and rice water enhances this to make hair resistant to brushing, tying, and other daily handling.

7. Easy Detangling

The natural slip in rice water conditions the hair gently, hence detangling is a lot easier, especially in the case of thick, frizz-prone, or curly hair.

Types of Rice Water: Which is Most Effective?

In Korea, we make rice water in various ways, each with its own character and strength, just as Ayurveda teaches that every herb has its unique temperament and purpose. Having studied Indian traditions, I learned something beautiful: Ayurveda and Korean herbal practice have several things in common, such as the value of simplicity, patience, and harmony with nature.

In many ways, rice water fits into both worlds.

1. Plain Rice Water

This is the most traditional and the mildest form: just the water collected after a rice rinse once or twice.

How it behaves:

Very gentle
Light in nutrients
Suitable for sensitive scalps.
Best for daily or frequent use

Why use it?

If your scalp becomes easily irritated or itchy, then this is the safest option. It cleans and freshens up the hair without overpowering it.

This reminds me of Ayurvedic Sheetala, or cooling, remedies, calming, simple, comforting.

2. Water used for Soaking Rice

This is retrieved after rice has been soaked for 20–30 minutes. It is more nutritious than simple rinsing water.

How it behaves:

Medium strength
Richer in vitamins and minerals
Good for weak, dull, or frizzy hair

Why use it?

This is the most common starting point for most. It gives the hair a soft slip, improves moisture, and helps to detangle.

Ayurveda would term this nourishing, brimhana, as in using soft, nutrient-rich herbs to rejuvenate.

3. Fermented Rice Water

This is the most potent variety-made by allowing soaked rice water to sit for 24-48 hours until it slightly sours.

How it behaves:

Strongest & most potent
Higher antioxidant content
Contains more beneficial compounds
Promotes an appropriate scalp microbiome

Why use it?

In Korean beauty traditions, fermented ingredients are considered deeply healing; fermentation awakens the life inside the food.

This version helps with:

Faster detangling
Stronger growth support
Scalps with dandruff
Rough or high-porosity hair

Similarly, Ayurveda adores fermented preparations like Takra, or buttermilk, and Kanji, both believed to nurture digestion and skin. This sounded to me like a gentle bridge between our worlds when I learned it.

Which works best?

There isn’t one “best” type, only the one that suits your hair’s dosha or, what we say in Korea, the natural nature of your hair.

Hair types :

Sensitive/ easily irritated: Pure water-rinsed rice water
Normal to dry/frizzy/ dull hair: Soaked rice water
Dandruff/ Hair fall: Fermented rice water

Think of rice water like tea: some prefer it mild, others strong. The beauty lies in choosing what makes your hair feel nourished and light.

How to Make Rice Water

Making rice water doesn't require anything fancy-just rice, water, and patience. In Korea, mothers teach daughters to make it the same way Indian mothers teach the importance of Ayurveda: with care, with intention, and with the belief that the simplest things often work best.

Method 1: The Rinsed Rice Water - Quick & Gentle

This is the mildest and easiest variation; hence, it would be perfect for novices or sensitive scalps.

You'll need:

½ cup uncooked rice
1–2 cups water

How to make:

1. Rinse your rice briefly, just to get the dust off.

2. Add fresh water, and mix the rice with your fingers.

3. Allow it to sit for 1–2 minutes.

4. Strain the water into a clean bowl.

What you get:

A light, milky water, great for everyday use; just as calming Ayurvedic herbs such as neem or licorice may be used on sensitive skin.

Method 2: The Soaked Rice Water

This variety draws more nutrients from the rice grains.

You'll need:

½ cup rice
2 cups water

How to Prepare:

1. Wash the rice once only.

2. Add fresh water and soak the rice for about 20–30 minutes.

3. Stir occasionally to release the nutrients.

4. Strain the water.

What you get:

Nutrient-filled water for softening, detangling, and gentle strengthening, just like some Ayurvedic remedy that strikes a perfect balance between nourishment and lightness.

Method 3: Fermented Rice Water

The most powerful form, adored in many villages in Korea and respected by Ayurvedic practitioners for being in the "activated" state.

You’ll need:

Water from soaked rice (above)
And a jar to store that water

How to prepare:

1. Pour drained rice water into a clean, sterilized jar.

2. Leave it at room temperature for 24–48 hours.

3. When it starts to smell a little sour, fermentation is complete.

4. Place in the refrigerator to retard further fermentation.

5. Dilute before use if it feels too strong for your scalp.

What you get

A potent, antioxidant-rich tonic that promotes growth, smoothness, and scalp vitality. Fermentation reminds me of Ayurveda's Takra Kalpana or fermented preparations, whereby both traditions value the power of transformation.

How to Apply Rice Water Based on Various Hair Concerns

Rice water is incredibly versatile. In Korea, we say it “listens” to the hair, meaning it adapts to what your hair needs. Ayurveda shares a similar principle: every treatment should balance your unique dosha and concern.

For Hair Growth & Thicker Strands

If your hair feels thin or slow-growing, rice water can act like a strengthening tonic.

How to use:

Take fermented or soaked rice water.
Dilute with plain water 1:1.
Pour it on your scalp very slowly after shampooing.
Massage gently for 5 minutes. After 10 to 15 minutes, rinse.

Why it works:

Fermented rice water is full of antioxidants and amino acids that feed the hair roots, just like how Ayurveda uses Bhringraj to wake up hair follicles that are asleep.

For hair that is frizzy or dry

Rice water is a natural way to soften dry hair, which loves moisture. Makes things shiny and smooth

HOW TO USE:

Smear soaked rice water from mid-length to ends after your conditioner.
Leave it on for 5 minutes.
Rinse with lukewarm water only; never hot.

Why it works:

It lightly coats each strand to reduce dryness and friction.

Ayurveda says that this effect is like sesame oil (Til): warm, soothing, and deeply conditioning.

For Hair that Is Dull and Lifeless

If you don't have any shine, rice water will bring it back.

How to use:

Use the water of washed rice as a last rinse after washing your hair.
Don't rinse it off afterward, just leave it on.
Air-dry your hair.

Why it works:

Starch molecules settle gently on the cuticle and form a natural gloss.

Ayurveda might say this is an enhancement of Ojas, the subtle glow of the body.

Oily, Itchy, or Irritated Scalp

When the scalp is greasy or inflamed, it works wonders with a balancing rinse.

How to use:

Dilute fermented rice water generously - 1:2 or 1:3.
Apply topically to the scalp only.
Leave for 5-7 minutes.
Rinse your hair well.

Why it works:

Fermented rice water contains mildly acidic compounds that calm the scalp, just like Ayurvedic ingredients such as Neem and Tea Tree help balance scalp heat and irritation.

For Hair Breakage & Split Ends

Breakage often means the hair needs protein support.

How to use:

Smear soaked or fermented rice water along the lengths.
Use it twice in a week.
Follow with a light oil like coconut or sweet almond to seal the cuticles.

Why it works:

Rice water provides amino acids that strengthen the hair, while oils seal in moisture, similar to the Ayurvedic practice of Snehana (oiling) for protection.

For Curly or Wavy Hair

When done correctly, curls love to be hydrated.

How to use:

Use rinsed rice water to make a final rinse.
Scrunch gently, and let your curls air-dry.

Why it works:

It enhances curl pattern and reduces frizz, much like Ayurveda’s love for natural, moisture locking rituals.

Ayurvedic Enhancers to Add with Rice Water

In Korea, we often say: “A good remedy becomes great when paired with the right herb.” Ayurveda shares this philosophy beautifully. While rice water on its own is powerful, combining it with Ayurvedic ingredients can transform it into a deeply nourishing, personalized hair treatment.

1. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Koreans admire Ayurvedic Amla for the same reason Indians do, it’s a powerhouse for hair longevity.

What it does:

Enhances brilliance
Strengthens roots
Slows premature greying.

How to use:

Mix 1 teaspoon of amla powder with warm rice water.
Let stand for 30 minutes.
Strain and use as a rinse.

Amla pairs beautifully with rice water because both are rich in antioxidants, making the hair look more youthful and vibrant.

2. Bhringaraj: Known as the "King of Hair" Herb

In Ayurveda, Bhringraj is considered the ultimate hair regenerator. When mixed with rice water, the combination becomes a growth-boosting tonic.

What it does:

Stimulates new hair growth.
Reduces hair fall
Improves scalp circulation

How to use:

Steep ½ teaspoon of bhringraj powder in hot water.
Mix the strained liquid with rice water and use as a pre-wash scalp spray.

Bhringraj strengthens from the roots, while rice water strengthens along the length, a complete duo.

3. Fenugreek (Methi)

A Korean herbalist would compare fenugreek to our “hair-softening beans.” Ayurveda cherishes it for its slippery, nourishing texture.

What it does:

Controls dandruff
Smoothes rough strands
Smoothes out detangling.

How to use:

Soak 1 tbsp of methi seeds overnight.
Blend into a paste.
Mix it with rice water for a naturally conditioning hair mask.

The blend instantly makes dry or frizzy hair feel more manageable.

4. Aloe Vera Gel

Both Korea and India love aloe for its soft cooling and moisturizing properties.

What it does:

Relieves itchy or irritated scalp
Provides deep hydration.
Adds light, clean softness

How to use:

Mix 1-2 tablespoons of fresh aloe gel into rice water.
Shake well and use as a leave-in hydrating spray.

Aloe gives rice water a more "slip-like" texture that curls, waves, and dry hair love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

So your rice water works for you, not against you. Even though rice water is gentle and deeply traditional in both Korean and Indian households, it can still overwhelm your hair if used incorrectly. Think of it like herbal tea, soothing when brewed right, strong and harsh when overdone. Here are the most common mistakes people make and how to avoid them.

1. Leaving Fermented Rice Water too long

Fermented rice water is incredibly potent, full of antioxidants, vitamins, and strengthening compounds. But if it's too fermented, it's acidic and too much for your hair.

2. Rice Water Application on Dirty Scalp

Applying rice water to an oily or dusty scalp prevents absorption, it simply sits on the surface. Always cleanse your scalp lightly before applying rice water, especially if you’re using it for growth. Ayurveda also emphasizes a “clean base” for herbs to work, just like Abhyanga oiling rituals.

3. Not Diluting Thick or Starchy Rice Water

If your rice water is too cloudy or thick, it can lead to: rigidity, aridity, tangling, protein overload. Always dilute thick rice water with 1–2 cups of plain water or herbal water (like amla, hibiscus, or neem tea).

4. Overuse of Rice Water

Daily use can cause hair to feel rough, dry, or brittle, especially if your hair is already high in protein. Use it 1-2 times a week; do not use it daily.

5. Forgetting to Apply Moisturizer Afterward

Rice water strengthens hair, but it doesn't provide deep moisture on its own. Always follow with: a light Ayurvedic oil such as almond, coconut or sesame. This keeps the hair balanced; that is, it remains strong yet soft.

Who should not use Rice water

Though rice water is a natural and generally harmless ingredient, taking it improperly causes certain unwanted effects.

People who experience these possible side effects should avoid using rice water.

Protein Buildup on Hair:

Rice water is rich in amino acids. Overuse can make the hair stiff, dry, and brittle, especially in low-porosity hair.

Scalp Irritation:

If you are sensitive to scalp irritation, fermented rice water is slightly acidic and may cause itching or redness on sensitive scalps.

Skin Breakouts

If your skin is acne prone, and applied on the face, rice water may sometimes block pores in acne-prone skin.

Who Should Use with Caution

People with low-porosity hair can have rice water that sits on the surface, leading to dryness.
Those with a very dry scalp.
Anyone with sensitive or reactive skin.
Individuals prone to protein overload (hair becomes hard and straw-like).

Best Ayurvedic Products to Use Along with Rice Water

As a Korean herbalist, I deeply respect how Ayurveda blends nature with healing. In Korea, rice water has been a timeless beauty ritual, while in India, herbs like Bhringraj, Amla, Brahmi, and Neem have been used for centuries to strengthen hair. When both traditions come together, they create a balanced routine that supports hair health from root to tip.

Bhringaraj Oil

Known as the “king of herbs” for hair. Perfect for those experiencing hair fall or weak roots.

Amla Oil

Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Supports hair growth and helps balance the slight protein stiffness rice water may cause.

Brahmi Oil

Soothing and cooling. Works wonderfully after a rice-water rinse to soothe the scalp.

Diluted Neem Oil

Helpful for dandruff-prone scalps. Should be mixed with coconut or sesame oil because neem is strong on its own.

How to use with rice water:

Oil your hair first, then wash as usual, and have the rice water be the last rinse.

Ayurvedic Shampoos to Supplement Rice Water

Look for shampoos with gentle, herbal formulations that balance protein and moisture.

Shikakai + Reetha Shampoo

Classic Ayurvedic cleansers that clean the dirt without taking away natural oils.

Amla-Bhringraj Herbal Shampoo

Nourishes as it cleans and cares for the scalp.

Aloe Vera + Coconut Milk Shampoo

Adds moisture, which offsets the slight dryness some people feel after rice water use.

Why this combination works:

Rice water strengthens hair, while Ayurvedic shampoos keep the scalp calm and moisturised.

FAQs About Using Rice Water for Hair

1. How regularly can rice water be applied to my hair?

Most people do well 1–2 times a week. Rice water is rich in amino acids, or natural proteins, so using it too frequently may make the hair stiff. If your hair is dry or curly, start with it once a week.

2. Does rice water really make hair grow faster?

Rice water improves scalp health, elasticity, and breakage resistance to naturally enhance hair growth. It does not magically quicken hair growth but supports stronger, healthier strands, leading to longer hair with time.

3. Does rice water lead to dryness or roughness in hair?

Yes, if overused or if your hair already has enough protein. If your hair feels stiff, combine rice water with: Aloe vera gel, Amla oil, Coconut milk These Ayurvedic moisturizers balance the protein from rice water.

4. Should I use fermented rice water or plain, and which one is better?

Both work, but for different needs: Plain rice water is mild, suitable for beginners and dry hair. Fermented rice water is stronger, more potent, and great for oily scalps or weak hair.

5. Is rice water safe to use on all hair types?

Mostly yes, but not for everyone. It is good for:

Oily hair, Weak or breaking hair, People with slow growth, Straight and wavy hair.

Conclusion

Rice water reminds us that the simplest traditions often bring in strong results. From old Korean herbal practices to the timeless ideas of Ayurveda, this small ingredient holds an idea in common: nourish the roots, and hair will do well.

Recommended Products

Ayurvedic Hair Oils

Ayurvedic Hair Tonics & Serums

Ayurvedic Hair Shampoos

Ayurvedic Hair Conditioner & Masks

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