Black rice is a range of rice types of the species oryza sativa L. It is also known as purple rice, some of which are glutinous rice. Forbidden rice earned its name because it was once reserved for the Chinese Emperor, for whom it was meant to ensure health and longevity. Forbidden Rice is a medium-grain, non-glutinous heirloom rice with a deep purple hue and a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. It has high antioxidant quotient. Antioxidants boost immunity levels and help your body stave off various ailments and infections better. The antioxidants also help discard toxins from body. The Anthocyanins is said to be helpful for reducing heart attack prospects. It reportedly plays a role in preventing plaque buildup in artery walls. They are also helpful in lowering cholesterol levels in body. Studies have revealed eating black rice can also help keep some dreaded ailments at bay. It may prevent onset of Alzheimers disease. Though solid scientific evidence does not exist, a lot of users of black rice say its consumption helps prevent and cure certain types of cancer.