Organic barley grass is juice extracted from green barley grass and consumed for a wide range of health benefits. It has been reported to give consumers more energy and to aid in digestion. It also is used to treat the symptoms of asthma, migraines, and arthritis. Although it can be consumed as a freshly squeezed juice, most people buy organic barley grass as a powder and then add it to a glass of water or take it as a capsule. In addition, there are some non-organic brands, but the organic brands ensure that the barley grass is grown without using chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
One of the benefits of consuming organic barley grass is the numerous vitamins, amino acids, minerals, enzymes, flavonoids, carotenoids, and other phytochemicals, such as chlorophyll that are found within. Many people claim that organic barley grass has 11 times the calcium as found in milk. In addition, it reportedly has more iron than a serving of spinach, more vitamin C than an orange, and more vitamin B1 than a serving of whole wheat flour.
It is unique from some green plants in that it is a high source of naturally occurring sodium. The sodium is reported to work to dissolve the calcium that collects around the joints and consequently helps people who are suffering from arthritis. In fact, many people who used to consume celery juice to treat arthritis because of its natural sodium content have switched to barley grass because it has 27 times more natural sodium. Consequently, some people believe it is a more potent and effective treatment for arthritis. The sodium in the barley grass is also believed to improve digestion by increasing the sodium levels in the stomach lining.
Interestingly, at the time barley grass is made into juice it is approximately 45 percent protein and contains nearly 1,000 enzymes. The enzymes regulate the body and work as antioxidants that fight aging and cancer. In addition, it contains chlorophyll that detoxifies the intestines. Many people believe that it is useful for treating ulcers and glucose issues. Some people claim that it promotes weight loss and works as a tonic as well.
Consumers can purchase organic barley grass as a powder or as a capsule. If it is consumed as a powder, the powder should be mixed with one glass of cold water, according to the instruction on the container. It should be sipped 20 minutes prior to eating or two hours after eating. As with many homeopathic remedies, it is important to store it in a cool, dark place, but it should not be refrigerated. There are few side effects with consuming organic barley grass, however, people should consult a doctor before using it.