“Wheatgrass” is simply sprouted wheat. There are several stages of sprouting wheat kernels or berries. Very short sprouts can be dried and ground for a sugar substitute; fully-grown wheat sprouts, of course, are the high stalks of wheat harvested by farmers for more wheat berries. In between these is wheat grass, several inches of green, grass-like leaves sprouted from wheat berries. The juice from this grass is full of health benefits, some of which are discussed below.
Wheatgrass helps restore a balanced state in the body (homeostasis), creating an environment that is unfriendly for the growth of pathogens and “bad” bacteria.
A University of Texas Cancer Center study indicated cancer-inhibiting qualities in wheatgrass juice, due to the high chlorophyll content.
Anemia can be helped by the ingestion of wheatgrass juice. (see “Blood” below for more information)
The nutritional profile of wheatgrass is impressive. It is full of amino acids, which are the basic components of protein. It also has around 30 enzymes, calcium, iron, magnesium, beta-carotene, potassium, and zinc.
Creams, ointments, and lotions made with wheatgrass juice soothe sunburn and other burns. It can help itchy rashes and heal acne as well. Even soaking in a bath to which a cup or so of wheatgrass juice has been added can soothe and heal skin.
