What is Wheatgrass? Also known as couch grass, wheatgrass, is a nutrient-rich creeping grass found in the milder climates of the United States and Europe.
It is carefully harvested under strict conditions in order to preserve its nutrient content, and then sold for use in many dietary supplements.
It is the root, or young shoots, of the grass that is said to contain the wonderful health benefits.
The Wonderful Benefits of Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is extremely high in Vitamin B-12, E, A, selenium, calcium, magnesium, iron, protein, 17 amino acids, and chlorophyll, the basis of all plant life. It is the chlorophyll content in wheatgrass that is said to provide the miraculous health benefits to the body, because of its high oxygen content. Some benefits of chlorophyll include:
- Rich in oxygen, which the brain and tissues need for optimal function
- A natural anti-bacterial agent that can be used outside or inside the body for healing
- Helps prevent tooth decay
- Helps ease toothaches
- Increases heart function
- Helps remove acne and scars
- Purifies the liver
- Neutralizes toxins in the body
- Improve blood sugar problems
- Refines and builds tissues
- Contains over 100 minerals needed by the body
- High in enzymes
- Improves digestion
- Helps improve arthritis
- Helps reduce blood pressure
- Helps heal and cleanse the internal body
- Improves mental clarity
- Helps make a stronger immune system
What Does the Government Say About It?
There is little evidence, or government support, that backs the health claims of wheatgrass. However, there are many scientific studies that have reported positive results with the use of wheatgrass for certain ailments. In the American Journal of Surgery, Benjamin Gruskin, M.D supports the claims of wheatgrass, accrediting the grass as effective in the healing of wounds, strep infections, ear inflammations, typhoid fever and more.
In a 2002 study, wheatgrass juice consumed in conjunction with standard medical care seemed to help ease the symptoms of ulcerative colitis, the inflammation of the large intestine. In another study, patients with thalassemia, a blood disorder, were given 3.5 oz. of wheatgrass daily for 3 years. The study concluded that at least half of the patients required fewer blood transfusions afterwards.
Side Effects
Wheatgrass is considered fairly safe for most people to consume; however, some individuals have reported allergic reactions such as headache, hives, nausea, and swollen throat within minutes after consuming wheatgrass juice. Whenever wheatgrass is consumed raw, there is always a risk of mold, bacteria, or other substance contamination, which can also cause certain side effects.
Types of Wheatgrass Products Available
Wheatgrass is available in many forms. Fresh wheatgrass can be purchased via shots or planted in trays of soil at your local health food store. Or, grow your own, using wheat grass seeds.
Other options for consuming wheatgrass include liquid extracts, tinctures, capsules, tablets, or powder. Because, dietary supplements are not regulated by the Food & Drug Administration, some wheatgrass products could contain less amounts of the active ingredient or contain other substances and contaminants. For this reason, it is always best to purchase wheatgrass products from a reputable company.
The most natural form of wheatgrass comes in small frozen packages you would add to a glass of water, juice, or smoothie.
Dynamic Greens is a company that sells it in this form. The product is grown organically, processed raw, and flash frozen. Amazon.com offers numerous sources of powdered wheatgrass, and even kits to grow it yourself at home.
How Is It Taken?
According to experts, to reap the maximum benefits of wheatgrass, it should be consumed from the live plant. As a result, wheatgrass is usually made into juice, tea, or smoothies to preserve its nutrient content. Some individuals prefer to chew the grass straight from the plant to preserve both its nutrient and enzyme content. Just one ounce of wheatgrass equals one ounce of fresh vegetables; however, if you opt for the processed form of wheatgrass, simply follow the manufacturer's serving suggestion.
