Gamma oryzanol is a naturally occurring mixture of plant chemicals called sterols and ferulic acid esters, extracted from rice bran oil and other grain oils such as corn and barley. Ferulic acid compounds also are present in many foods, including oats, berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, olives, and vegetables. Gamma oryzanol serves as an important antioxidant within plant cells. It is a natural component of rice bran, corn, and barley oils. It has been also available as a supplement. There is preliminary evidence that Gamma Oryzanol can increase endorphin release and help build muscle, which is why it has become popular as a sports supplement. It has been approved in Japan for use in menupause, anxiety, stomach upset, and high cholesterol. Early reports from the mid-1950s reported isolation, extraction, and purification of Gamma Oryzanol. However, the Japanese have been using it as a medicine since 1962. It first was used to treat anxiety. In the 1970s it was found to be an effective treatment for menopause. Gamma Oryzanol therapy was approved to treat elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the late 1980s.
Gamma Oryzanol has been proven effective to treat symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and aging syndromes. Human studies using Gamma Oryganol for hyperlipidemias also are promising. Reduced total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and increased HDL levels were noted in hyperlipidemic patients given Gamma Oryzanol. It has been used to treat GI problems. The mechanisms by which Gamma Oryzanol exerts its effects appear to be the normalizaton of nervous system control of digestive secretion. Similarly, it is used as a supplement in bodybuilding, but few well controlled human trials exist indicating any benefits. It is used by athletes based on early reports that suggested it enhances muscle growth and sports performance. Evidence from animal studies suggests that it may help prevent ulcers, however, meaningful human trials are lacking.
References:
Drugs.Com. http://www.drugs.com/npc/gamma-oryzanol.html
Alternative Medicines. http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/conditionsrtoz/a/SportsMuscle_2.htm
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