Wheatgrass is a small and young grass of common wheat plant, which belongs to Poaceae family. It is generally a thick and dry grass that appears like straw or hay but is bright green in colour. Wheatgrass plays an important role in natural & holistic medicine and comes with many health benefits. Though wheatgrass contains few calories but it is full of proteins, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. A study showed that it might have anticancer properties as well.
Farmers harvest it early in its development before it reaches full size. This is generally 7 to 10 days after sprouting. Many people call wheatgrass as green blood as it contains high levels of chlorophyll that gives wheatgrass products an unusual green tone.
A study conducted in 2018 noted that the proteins & antioxidant agents in wheatgrass could help:
- Improve metabolism & storage of energy
- Prevent many diseases
- Reduce oxidative stress
What are the Benefits of Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass benefitsÂ
High in Nutrients & Antioxidants
Packed with nutrients, wheatgrass is a great source of many different minerals and vitamins. It is especially high in vitamins A, C & E and iron, calcium, magnesium and amino acids. Like every green plant, wheatgrass also has chlorophyll – a type of green plant pigment that is associated with many health benefits. It also contains numerous important antioxidants like glutathione & vitamins C and E. Antioxidants are compounds that fight free radicals to prevent from cell damage & reduce oxidative stress.
Could Help Regulate Blood Sugar
High blood sugar can lead to many problems like headaches, frequent urination, thirst and fatigue. Over time, high blood sugar can also cause severe consequences such as nerve damage, skin infections & vision problems. In few animal studies, it was found that wheatgrass can keep blood sugar levels under control.
Treats gastrointestinal distress
Practitioners of traditional medicine have long utilized wheatgrass to reduce stomach ache and manage minor gastrointestinal problems, like diarrhea and digestive problems. Wheatgrass contains a high fiber content & fiber helps in keeping our gut healthy.
Could Alleviate Inflammation
Inflammation is a normal response that is triggered by the immune system to defend the body against injury or infection. But chronic inflammation is believed to contribute to conditions such as heart disease, cancer & autoimmune disorders. Some researches have shown that wheatgrass and its components can help reduce inflammation.
Wheatgrass has good amount of chlorophyll, a plant pigment with potent anti-inflammatory properties. A test-tube study revealed that chlorophyll inhibited the activity of a specific protein that triggers inflammation.
Helps in weight loss
Wheatgrass is loaded with nutrients hence it ensures that your body does not need food items to compensate for the lack of vitamins or minerals. A wheatgrass supplement every morning can prevent overeating throughout the day.
Prevents dental problems
Powdered wheatgrass is helpful in treating tooth decay as well as other dental problems. Apart from eating it, you can also massage your gums with wheatgrass powder to keep them firm and healthy.
Good for Skin
If you apply paste made of wheatgrass powder & milk on your face and neck then it will prevent breakouts, treat acne, scars and promote healthy, glowing skin.
Provides anti-aging benefits
The natural anti-ageing properties of wheatgrass helps in rejuvenating the cells, taking care of sagging skin, maintaining the skin elasticity and keeping you looking younger.
Other Benefits of Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass may also benefit people with:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Blood disorders like thalassemia
- Heart disease
Traditional Medicinal Uses of Wheatgrass
- Lowers blood pressure
- Relieves gout
- Improves Digestion
- Removes heavy metals from bloodstream
Wheatgrass Juice
The best way to consume wheatgrass is in the form of juice. Wheatgrass juice can be easily made at home; all you would need is its powder, which can be purchased online.
Wheatgrass juice benefits
- Good for all types of skin problems
- Constipation
- Promotes Weight Loss
- Eliminates toothaches
- Sore throat
- Prevents hair from graying
- Blood disorders
How to Make Wheatgrass Juice
To prepare wheatgrass juice – take one glass of water, one tablespoon wheatgrass powder /simple wheatgrass and lemon juice.
Step 1 – In a mixer or blender, put wheat grass/powder, 1 cup of water and some lemon juice. Mix together on high speed for 10 seconds.
Step 2 – Then add the remaining water & blend once again.
Step 3 – Pour the wheatgrass juice in a glass and enjoy!
Include Wheatgrass Juice in your diet and feel the difference!!!!
