Wheatgrass does have some documented health benefits. It is a great source of fiber, which can help maintain bowel regularity, and it also has antibacterial properties, is a good source of iron, and may help reduce symptoms of a sore throat when a person gargles with its juice. Wheatgrass is about 70% chlorophyll, which can help reduce bad breath and may aid in digestion. Some say that a little put on skin wounds may work as well as topical antibacterial ointments.
Despite its benefits, the major supporter of wheatgrass juicing, Anne Wigmore, had some very uncommon ideas regarding its benefits. Wigmore firmly believed that it could cure cancer, insanity, and the AIDS virus. In fact, she was sued for this last belief by the Massachusetts attorney general, although the judge ruled Wigmore was exercising her First Amendment rights. Her claims are far from verifiable, however.
Wheatgrass is still consumed quite frequently, especially at juice and smoothie stores. It is usually grown in trays, from which it is picked directly and juiced per a customer’s order. Unfortunately, plants grown indoors may not have as many benefits as those grown outside.
In indoor or greenhouse settings, the plant is often used before it reaches peak nutritional potential. Because the environment in these settings is relatively mild, the grass grows quickly. In fact, it grows too quickly to actually have time to fully develop its simple carbohydrates (sugars) into complex carbohydrates, and it also may not be as rich in vitamins at this stage than most think.
Instead, scientists have analyzed that wheatgrass grown outdoors or indoors should not be picked until it reaches “jointing.” Jointing is when the plant has just sprouted seed heads. In most juice stores, it is picked before reaching this stage.
Many people claim that the juice provides them with instant energy. This claim may be valid, since when picked early, it still contains a lot of simple carbohydrates that are an excellent source of energy. If the plant is allowed to reach jointing, however it will have complex carbohydrates, vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and potassium.
Wheatgrass is seldom juiced when it reaches this stage, so its health benefits may not be as great as many people think. People can still benefit from the chlorophyll it contains, however.
