Gamma oryzanol

Gamma oryzanol (γ-OZ) is the primary functional substance extracted and refined from rice bran oil. It is extracted by standardized solvent extraction process and further purified to obtain in its water insoluble, white, crystalline, powdery form. Variable results have been reported by researchers conducting in vitro simulated and in vivo experiments on its absorption and bioavailability when ingested orally. It is a matter requiring future investigations. Low absorption has been mostly attributed to large size and hydrophobicity. Overall, dose, time, and diet dependency have been indicated. Manifold improvement in absorption can be attained by consuming in micro- and nanoencapsulated, emulsion, or entrapped forms. Apart from metabolism, application of γ-OZ in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products relating to its strong free radical scavenging antioxidant and antiinflammatory, ulcer preventing, anticancer, dyslipidemia, antiallergic, diabetes regulating, and menopausal symptoms improving characteristics have been discussed in this chapter.