Revolutionary Cancer Treatment? Chhattisgarh’s ‘Sanjeevani’ Rice Shows Remarkable Promise

The ‘Sanjeevani’ rice, a vanishing species from Sukma, Chhattisgarh, is generating excitement in the medical field. Research conducted by the Indira Gandhi Agricultural University and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre highlights the potential of this rice to combat cancer. The rice contains 213 biochemicals, with seven specifically identified as cancer-fighting agents. Studies involving mice have shown encouraging results, and the Central Drug Research Institute has also confirmed the medicinal properties of ‘Sanjeevani’ rice. Human trials are scheduled to commence at the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital in January. The rice’s compounds work by activating nrf2, which helps eliminate mutated cells, potentially providing a natural defense against the disease. The team’s work follows a long-held vision of rice therapy, and the medicinal use of this unique rice variety could be a global first.