The Potential Health Benefits of Wheatgrass

The Potential Health Benefits of Wheat Grass

Wheat grass, obtained from common wheat plant (Triticum aestivum), is one of the most nutritious substances containing over ninety minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium and sodium. It is also rich in essential enzymes such as protease which assists in protein digestion, cytochrome oxidase, a reputed antioxidant, amylase known to facilitate digestion, lipase which is a fat splitting enzyme, transhydrogenase said to strengthen the heart and superoxide dismutase known for its ability ameliorate the effects of radiation and slow down aging.

Wheat grass is also known to be a good source of amino acids (such as arginine, serine, absenisic, lysine, aspartic acid, glycine, alanine, methionine, leucine, tryptophane, phenylalanine, valine), which are the building blocks of proteins, essential for growth & regeneration.

Wheatgrass is beneficial for our health in many ways. It is a great source of vitamins B, C, E and carotene which act as antioxidants and destroy free radicals and hence, cleanse the body off the same. Studies reveal that the chlorophyll present in wheat grass is almost identical to the hemoglobin found in red blood cells of the blood with the only difference that the central element in chlorophyll is magnesium and in hemoglobin, its iron. Therefore, it is useful for those suffering from anemia. Wheat grass also keeps a check on the blood pressure by dilating the blood pathways though out the body, promote metabolism and energize the body.

Because it is also high in saponin, wheat grass helps to detoxify the body by increasing the elimination of hardened mucous, crystallized acids and solidified, decaying fecal matter and thus, provides an optimum nutritional environment inside the body system. Wheat grass is an extremely effective way of boosting the immune system to fight against diseases. It also contains several active enzymes which play a major role in breaking down fats, undertaking biological functions and assist hugely in weight loss. 

Being highly antibacterial, wheat grass alkalizes and detoxifies the lymph and blood cells, helping the body to rebuild and transport toxins out of the body quickly and effectively. Several laboratory studies have highlighted the role of wheat grass as protectors against carcinogens (cancer causing agents) as it reduces the absorption of a number of potent carcinogens, detoxifies the liver and neutralizes polluting elements within the blood.

Wheat grass also regulates blood sugar levels in the blood and is quite beneficial for diabetics. It also treats weakness and fatigue as it is immediately absorbed in the blood stream and gives instant energy.  It contains antioxidants which repair damaged cells and rejuvenates aging cells. Last but not the least, it also improves digestion & metabolism.

Grow Your Own Wheat Grass!

It is possible to grow wheat grass at home. It usually takes 6-9 days for the seed to germinate & develop into grass that is ready for juicing. If the seeds are kept at a temperature around 70 degrees, it will last for long. The fresh grass should be cut & juice within a week, after that it will lose its benefits & would become bitter. For growing the plant, sprout the seeds in water for 6- 10 hours. Fill a 4-inch deep seed tray with a mix of peat moss and top soil. 

Drain the seeds & sprinkle them evenly over the soil, then cover them with top soil. Water the tray lightly without disturbing the evenness of the soil. Set the tray in direct sunlight and continue watering as needed. When the grass grows 7 inches tall (takes about 7-10 days), harvest and juice as required. Wheat grass is also available in many health food stores as fresh produce, tablets, juice and powder.
Note that 30 ml of wheat grass juice taken daily will provide all its nutritional benefits.