The outer layer of the rice grain (bran) and the oil made from the bran are used for medicine. Rice bran is used for treating diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, alcoholism, obesity, and AIDS. It is used for preventing stomach and colon cancer; for preventing heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease, strengthening the immune system, increasing energy and improving athletic performance for improving liver function and as an antioxidant. Some people apply rice bran directly to the skin for an allergic skin rash called eczema. Rice bran contains a good balance of B vitamins, vitamin E, minerals, dietary fiber and other nutrients. You can also eat it together with yoghurt, milk and sugar, as a cereal. However, if you wish to eat raw rice bran without cooking it, please keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a week.