According to a recent research conducted by the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV), Raipur and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Mumbai, three medicinal varieties of rice found in Chhatisgarh – Gathwan, Maharaji and Laicha – have the ability to fight cancer.
These varieties were taken from the rice germplasm bank preserved in IGKV. The three varieties of rice have properties to cure lungs and breast cancers without affecting normal cells.
Of them, Laicha has been found to be the most effective in preventing proliferation of cancer cells and destroying them. As part of the research, Gathwan, Maharaji and Laicha have been used for medicinal purpose in many pockets of Raipur, particularly in the tribal region of Bastar.
Scientists have revealed that Gathwan also has the property to cure arthritis. Similarly, Laicha has been used in treating skin-related problems by villagers in some areas.
In the next stage of research, BARC scientists are trying to extract the anti-cancer ingredients or elements from these varieties and conduct trials on the mouse.
Subsequently, they plan to develop it as dietary supplement which will be easy for consumption for people.