Barley grass juice powder is often referred to as a nutritional powerhouse and for a very good reason.
Or rather a set of reasons because the variety of nutrients it packs, their nature and their concentration are impressive. The health benefits connected to its regular ingestion range from improved digestion and cellular level detox to blood sugar control and cancer prevention.
Not to mention that barley grass juice power has been linked to a youthful appearance through better hydrated skin and to weight control/loss.
Go directly to the List of Health Benefits or read on for useful information on how it is made, the difference between barley grass powder and barley grass juice powder and more (3 mins).
As part of our health routine (of course we want to enjoy the craft beering lifestyle for as long as possible) Chris and I include a daily dose of this miraculous phytonutrient rich powder in our diets.
Both on the days when we drink beer and on those when we don’t. On the not so serious side – it only makes sense – barley grass is the beginning of craft beer, so of course its consumption is part of the craft beering ways.
Learn more about our other practices.
Barley grass juice powder vs Barley Grass Powder
Let me point out an important distinction first.
You should be aware that barley grass juice powder is not the same as barley grass powder. They sound similar and both are made from the same blades of grass – Hordeum vulgare (the botanical name of barley in Latin), but there is a difference in how each is derived.
While the nutrients remain the same in each type of powder, the dehydrated barley grass powder also contains cellulose that cannot be digested by humans. It is usually lighter in color.
Barley grass juice powder has a higher concentration of the beneficial nutrients and the indigestible cellulose is not present. It has a much darker color.
Let’s look into each one.
How is Barley Grass Juice Powder Made?
Barley grass juice powder is carefully juiced from the aerial part of the tender stalks of young barley grass. The grass is cut at peak harvest – the time when it’s nutritional potential is highest. This is sometimes referred to as the first joint stage, when the blades are about 12 inches tall and before a true stem is produced. The barley grass at this stage is said to contain the highest concentration of nutrients absorbed from the soil.
During juicing the cellulose (fiber) that makes up most of the thick cell walls of barley grass is broken down (and later removed) to release the beneficial phytonutrients and make them easier for absorption by the human organism.
The juice is dried at very low temperatures to protect and preserve the precious bio-active enzymes and other nutrients while the cellulose is discarded.
How is Barley Grass Powder Made?
In contrast, the lighter green barley grass powder is derived directly from the young barley grass. The harvested blades are dehydrated and then ground into powder. Barley grass powder retains all the cellulose and the nutrients are not as concentrated as in the juiced grass.
Because barley grass juice powder does not contain the insoluble fiber present in dried barley grass powder it is presumed to be better soluble in water. In reality, we’ve found that the straight powder actually does dissolve quite easily. It is ground very, very fine. Despite this, the barley grass juice powder is more bio-viable and is the one you should be looking for.
What is the Best Brand Barley grass juice powder?
When selecting a brand to purchase, beware of what you are buying.
Dried barley grass directly pressed into powder is usually priced lower than the juice powder.
That being said, on more than one occasion we have come across products that claim to be barley grass juice powder but are simply dried grass powder. If buying online do take the time to read the consumer reviews and any manufacturer replies.
Sometimes the manufacturer admits to the fact that the grass was not juiced even though the product description and even the packaging say barley grass juice powder. I guess the temptation to leverage the word juice and intentionally (it seems to us) label product in a misleading way is too strong.
Some brands display the ‘pure juice powder’ symbol on their labels, removing all doubts as to the origin of the powder.
Brands we recommend based on our personal experience with them are:
A 6 oz container will cover you for about two months assuming your intake is the recommended 1 1/2 tsp daily dose.
This works out to less than 33 cents a day on average even though prices vary from one brand to the next. Pretty good deal considering how much nutrition you get out of that tiny daily dose.
One serving of the powder is said to give you up to three times more nutrients than the typical serving of green vegetables.
Nutrients in Barley Grass Juice Powder
Young barley grass is presumed to be the most nutritious of all the green grasses. It contains all of the nutrients listed below.
- chlorophyll
- enzymes – several live enzymes, including the powerful superoxide dismutase (SOD, apowerful cellular anti-oxidant, protects cells from damage by free radicals)
- amino acids – extremely rich source of protein (15 times more protein than milk)
- minerals – calcium (up to eleven times more than milk), iron (five times more than spinach), magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, potassium
- vitamins – A (beta-carotene), lutein, B1,B2,B6, B9, B12, C, E, K
Is Barley Grass Juice Powder Gluten Free?
Yes, it is. Even though barley is a cereal grain, before it forms actual grains the plant does not synthesize gluten.
Health Benefits of Barley Grass Juice Powder
The potent nutrient arsenal of barley grass juice powder brings about powerful health benefits. Among the most extolled ones are:
- natural detoxifier benefits – at the cellular level and supportive of liver function
- digestive benefits
- immune system boosting benefits
- cancer prevention (especially breast cancer)
- acid alkaline balancing benefits
- stimulation of cell regeneration (connected to more healthful and better hydrated skin)
- cholesterol lowering benefits
- blood sugar level control
- reduced inflammation in the body
- weight loss and weight control
- bone health benefits
What does Barley Grass Juice Powder Taste Like?
Like fresh cut grass with a mildly bitter flavor. Compared to wheat grass, it is definitely a few notches more bitter. This is not really an obstacle.
How to Use Barley Grass Juice Powder?
Due to the high water solubility of barley grass juice powder the easiest way to use it is to mix it with some water.
In view of the bitterish taste and pungent freshly cut grass aroma, you might find it somewhat unpleasant to drink.
Chris and I do not think that it is that awful. I can drink a glassful in one go when really thirsty, otherwise I tend to take a few sips at a time. Typically we both take it with something else. Chris frequently mixes his daily dose into the protein shakes he makes/buys after every work out at the gym. I like to mix mine with water and my daily collagen powder and add a splash of orange juice, just enough to take the edge off the grassy flavor.
Whilesaid flavor can eventually grow on you, you do not have to suffer through the experience of getting used to it. I have a few suggestions for how to effortlessly incorporate barley grass juice powder in your diet. Consider that the fastest absorption happens on an empty stomach and in liquid form but if for some reason that is not possible you can always do one of the following:
- add it to kefir (our son thinks that green kefir is the coolest)
- add it to your favorite (preferably freshly squeezed) juice
- add it to your breakfast smoothie
- add it to granola or overnight oatmeal bowls along with fresh fruit
- add it to Bloody Mary mixes (seriously, might as well drink healthy)
- add it to cocktails (not sure a doctor would recommend this, but just wait for the gorgeous vibrant green beer
mojito I will post soon) - add it to gazpacho soup
- add it to homemade salad dressings
- add it to salsas, especially green salsa
- add it to pestos
- make cold raw vegetable sauces with it (My favorite is: blend the flesh of 1 large yellow bell pepper + a small bunch of cilantro + 1 1/2 tsp barley grass juice powder, add 1 tbsp of olive (stir well) and salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle the sauce over grilled meats, especially in summer time. It tastes heavenly despite the cilantro which I usually do not care for. Not to mention that it is a dashing green color.)
You really have no excuse not to start taking barley grass juice powder if you aren’t doing so already.
Whatever the manner of taking it, be sure not to subject it to thermal interventions – you want those coveted enzymes to make it to your digestive system alive.
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Barley Grass Juice Powder Drink
Yield: 1
Prep Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 1 minute
Include this barley grass juice powder drink in your diet and enjoy lasting health benefits.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tsp barley grass juice powder
- 6 oz water
- 2 oz OJ, apple juice or your favorite juice
Instructions
- Place the recommended daily dose of 1 1/2 tsp barley grass juice powder at the bottom of a water glass.
- While stirring with a spoon gently add the water. Stir until all the powder is dissolved.
- Add your choice of juice to mask the grassy flavor of the powder, stir well and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Be sure to use a good brand of barley grass juice powder (barely grass that was first juiced and then the juice converted into powder).
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FAQs
Barley Grass Juice Powder Health Benefits (There are Many)? ›
Barley grass is rich in vitamins A and C, which act as antioxidants. These vitamins help fight off free radicals that can damage your body. They help carry free radicals out of the body and lower your risk of problems ranging from decreased skin elasticity to breast and colon cancer.
Is it OK to drink barley powder everyday? ›Unstrained barley water is a delicious, simple, and refreshing way to get a hearty dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. While too much barley water can put a strain on your digestive system, drinking it a few times a week can help you lose weight and avoid diabetes and heart disease.
What is barley juice powder good for? ›- A Powerful Source of Nutrition.
- Fills Nutrition Gaps.
- Helps Control Cholesterol Levels.
- Assists With Managing Chronic Disease Symptoms.
- Beneficial for Bone Health.
- Inhibits Cancer Tumor Growth.
- Fuels Immunity.
- Aids in Boosting Skin Quality.
| Name | Amount | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium, Ca | 534 | mg |
| Iron, Fe | 21 | mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 500 | mg |
| Potassium, K | 3360 | mg |
Barley grass powder (1.2 g/day) within two months can significantly reduce fasting blood sugar, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, but significantly increase the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels [76].
Is barley good for kidneys? ›Improved Kidney and Liver Health
Some studies suggest that the nutrient profile of barley water may contribute to kidney and liver health. It may also prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections from forming, however, more research is needed to confirm these effects.
When taken by mouth: Barley is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth. It might cause gas, bloating, or feelings of fullness in some people. This usually lessens with continued use. Barley can also cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Can barley detox your body? ›Barley grass acts as a natural detoxifier
Furthermore, an abundance of chlorophyll and beta-carotene in barley grass stimulates the eradication of waste materials such as mucus and crystallized acids. Barley grass also supports the metabolic processes and aids in strengthening and detoxification of the liver.
Barley grass is rich in vitamins A and C, which act as antioxidants. These vitamins help fight off free radicals that can damage your body. They help carry free radicals out of the body and lower your risk of problems ranging from decreased skin elasticity to breast and colon cancer.
Is barley grass powder good for liver? ›In addition to being highly nutritious, barley grass has been shown to eliminate intracellular toxins in humans – a huge benefit for the liver. Some well-studied effects include sleep promotion, blood sugar and blood pressure regulation, and immunity enhancement.
Should I refrigerate barley grass powder? ›
Storage Info: Refrigeration not required. Store in a cool, dark, dry place.
What is the difference between barley juice powder and barley powder? ›While the nutrients remain the same in each type of powder, the dehydrated barley grass powder also contains cellulose that cannot be digested by humans. It is usually lighter in color. Barley grass juice powder has a higher concentration of the beneficial nutrients and the indigestible cellulose is not present.
Is barley grass powder anti-inflammatory? ›Helping to maintain inflammatory balance is a key benefit of phytonutrients, and barley grass is a perfect example. Barley grass is not just high in phytonutrients, but also rich in anti-inflammatory vitamins and minerals, as well as enzymes that promote anti-inflammatory activity in the body.
Should I take barley grass in the morning or night? ›The daily recommended intake of barley grass is 2-3 teaspoons mixed with water or juice. It is best consumed on an empty stomach, either first thing in the morning or before meals.
Does barley grass powder detox? ›Detoxifies the Body: The chlorophyll found in barley powder has powerful detoxifying properties. It can help remove toxins and waste products from the body, promoting better overall health. 3. Boosts Immunity: This powder is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help support a healthy immune system.
Can I drink barley powder before bed? ›It contains amino acids, melatonin and tryptophan, which combine their effects to help you sleep better. Barley tea does not contain any caffeine, so it is entirely safe to have before bed.
Can barley cure high blood pressure? ›Barley water has also been known to lower blood pressure. High blood pressure has often been known to be one of the leading causes of the cardiovascular disease called atherosclerosis. Since barley water helps reduce and regularize blood pressure, it can effectively help reduce the onset of atherosclerosis.
Is barley good for urinary problems? ›Barley water is hence a useful home remedy when you have a Urinary Tract Infection. Boil a tablespoon of barley seeds in a litre of water. Bring down the quantity to half and keep consuming barley water throughout the day. Barley water also brings down the heat content in the body and prevents urine from stinking.
Does barley increase potassium? ›Barley is rich in B vitamins, such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), folate and pantothenic acid. It is high in potassium and low in sodium. And eating barley may help you feel full longer, making it a great food for people trying to lose weight.
Can I take barley grass on an empty stomach? ›The best way to take a glass of Santé Barley is in the morning on an empty stomach so your body can absorb the nutrients. Taking vitamins and supplements with water can help cleanse your colon on an empty stomach. This increases the efficiency of your intestine to metabolize nutrients.
Which is better barley grass or wheatgrass? ›
There is very little nutritional difference between wheat grass and barley grass, although it is important to note that barley grass acts as a free radical scavenger that also reduces inflammation and pain, and wheat grass contains P4D1, a "gluco-protein" that acts like an antioxidant, reducing inflammation.
Can barley clean the liver? ›- Barley is good for liver cirrhosis because of the presence of chlorophyll, a powerful detoxifying agent for the liver because it removes carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. - The presence of Arginine helps detoxify the liver by neutralizing the ammonia.
Is barley grass good for the heart? ›May support heart health
Barley grass also contains compounds like saponarin, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and tryptophan, all of which have been linked to decreased blood pressure, reduced inflammation, and improved heart health ( 11 ).
Barley. Whole grains like barley are rich in B-vitamins as well as fiber, which can also help lower cholesterol and improve brain health. Research has linked B-vitamins (like B6, B12, and folate) to reducing risk of cognitive decline due to potential memory boosting benefits.
Is barley grass good for the brain? ›Barley grass is rich in b(eauty)-vitamins
B vitamins help support brain function, energy levels, digestion, and much more. And they're even more beneficial for women's health: Studies show that eating foods rich in B vitamins can have a positive impact on female hormones.
From controlling blood sugar fluctuations to supporting immune system function, barley water has several health benefits. However, excess intake of barley water may cause side effects. It may cause intestinal gas or flatus, stomach upset, constipation, rectal bleeding, and allergic reactions.
What vitamins and minerals are in barley grass? ›The juice of barley grass contains beta carotene, vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, pantothenic acid, and folic acid. Minerals present include potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and magnesium. Other constituents are chlorophyll, amino acids, protein, fiber, and enzymes.
Is barley grass good for thyroid? ›Yes, Barley might be good for thyroid as it contains certain phytonutrients that decrease the levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). It also protects the brain from any damage that might result due to thyroid problems and helps in maintaining normal brain functioning[18].
Can I mix barley powder with coffee? ›On its own, coffee has a lot of health benefits. But what if you combine it with pure barley grass? The advantages are increased and improved. Coffee infused with pure barley grass can help you balance your blood sugar, aid in weight loss, keep your heart healthy, and increase your intake of vitamins and antioxidants!
Can I drink barley grass powder at night? ›You can safely drink the Santé Barley MaxNZ powdered drink or capsule any time of the day. However, the best time to have a glass of this vitamin-rich supplement is before eating your breakfast. It can fill your body with nutrients and be easily absorbed by your digestive system.
Can I mix barley grass powder in hot water? ›
BGJP can be used mixed into water, smoothie or juice. The powder is, however, best not to be baked or heat-treated in any other ways in order to retain its nutritional value at its peak. It is therefore advised to use the powder mixed into different cold drinks.
Does barley grass juice powder have iodine? ›The reason for this is that Barley Grass is high in Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium which are all alkalinising minerals. The CSN Barley Grass Supplement is free from iodine which makes it the ideal choice if you have an iodine (or shellfish allergy), or using medication for hypothyroidism.
Is barley powder good for arthritis? ›Barley contains phytochemicals, which help with heart health. The presence of copper in barley reduces symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms; it also maintains flexibility in bones and joints.
How often should I drink barley grass powder? ›The recommended dosage of barley grass powder is one to two teaspoons per day. It is best to start with a lower dose and slowly increase to the recommended amount. It's also important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplement.
Is barley good for anxiety? ›Barley and Oats
Oats, barley, and other whole grains like rice, millet and quinoa can help relieve or completely prevent anxiety. Whole grain foods help our brain regulate levels of serotonin, which contributes to feelings of well-being.
- It is best to take in an empty stomach, either 20 minutes before a meal or 2 hours after, so that the nutrients can be assimilated easily without the presence of other foods.
- Make sure to use either cold or room temperature liquids, as hot liquid will break down the living enzymes in the Barley.
To reap maximum benefits, drink barley water at least two times a day. You can have this drink anytime.
What are the benefits of drinking barley grass powder everyday? ›Barley grass is rich in vitamins A and C, which act as antioxidants. These vitamins help fight off free radicals that can damage your body. They help carry free radicals out of the body and lower your risk of problems ranging from decreased skin elasticity to breast and colon cancer.
Who should not drink barley? ›Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity: The gluten in barley can make celiac disease worse. Avoid using barley. Allergies to cereal grains: Consuming barley might cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to other cereal grains, including rye, wheat, oat, corn and rice.
How much barley should I drink a day? ›Enjoy up to 4 cups (950 ml) of barley water daily.
You can enjoy barley water before or after meals throughout the day to get more vitamins and minerals in your diet. Don't consume more than 4 cups (950 ml) of barley water per day since it's high in fiber and can cause an upset stomach.
How many teaspoons of barley powder per day? ›
The recommended dosage of barley grass powder is one to two teaspoons per day. It is best to start with a lower dose and slowly increase to the recommended amount. It's also important to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplement.
Is barley grass powder good for kidneys? ›It works as a diuretic that increases urination and flushes out toxins from the body. Barley water is an excellent solution for kidney stones and cysts too. This drink is recommended in children and adult age groups daily till the urine infection subsides.
What disease issues does barley have? ›The most prevalent foliar diseases are rusts, blotches and powdery mildew. They can all have serious impacts on grain yield and quality.
Can I drink barley grass on empty stomach? ›The best way to take a glass of Santé Barley is in the morning on an empty stomach so your body can absorb the nutrients. Taking vitamins and supplements with water can help cleanse your colon on an empty stomach. This increases the efficiency of your intestine to metabolize nutrients.
Is barley drink anti inflammatory? ›Barley tea contains anti-inflammatory properties that can treat inflammation, joint pain, and arthritic issues.