Barley Grass Flashcards
(14 cards)
What is barley grass?
The young grass of the barley plant, similar in benefits to wheatgrass.
What are the energetic properties of barley grass in TCM?
Cooling and detoxifying.
Name four key vitamins found in barley grass.
Vitamins A, B1, C, and E.
What minerals are abundant in barley grass?
Calcium, potassium, selenium, magnesium.
Which powerful antioxidant enzyme is found in barley grass?
Superoxide dismutase.
What amino acids in barley grass support relaxation and sleep?
GABA and tryptophan.
How does barley grass benefit cardiovascular health?
Lowers LDL and total cholesterol, raises HDL, and regulates blood pressure associated with the photochemical ‘saponarin’.
How does barley grass help with diabetes?
Reduces fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels due to high fibre content.
What compound in barley grass helps reduce uric acid for gout support?
Its ability to enhance urinary excretion.
How does barley grass support digestion?
Fibre aids bowel function (bowel elimination and nourishing microflora), flavonoids reduce inflammation in the gut lining (especially in conditions such as ulcerative colitis).
What compounds in barley grass improve energy and oxygenation?
Enzymes like cytochrome oxidase and flavonoids such as lutonarin and saponarin.
What is the recommended dosage of dried barley grass powder?
3–15 g per day.
Who should be cautious when using barley grass?
People with known grass allergies.
What are the benefits and clinical applications of barley grass?
- Antioxidant and anti- inflammatory (protection against chronic diseases including cancer, diabetes and heart disease). Downregulates TNF-a.
- Cardiovascular support.
- Diabetes.
- Gout.
- Supports healthy GI function.
- Promotes sleep and relaxation - related to GABA content and tryptophan (precursor to serotonin and melatonin).