Wheatgrass
Feb 17, 2025
Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass (scientific name Triticum aestivum) is a common plant supplement popular in the United States, also known as bugday, breadwheat, cheng ping, com-mon wheat, and wheat. Prior studies have demonstrated uses of wheatgrass in beta thalassemia to reduce the number of required blood transfusions and in ulcerative colitis.
Wheatgrass has also been used in acne, blood flow disorders, inflammatory disorders, weight loss, wound care, and as an antipyretic.
Dosing for adults depends on the indication. For supplementation in beta thalassemia and ulcerative colitis, 100 mL of wheatgrass juice should be consumed daily. Doses of 8-32 ounces may also be used as a colonic or enema.
Adverse effects include life-threatening allergic reactions, likely due to its wheatberry component. Wheatgrass is consumed raw and is grown in soils, and so it should be avoided in women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. There is insufficient evidence of interactions of wheatgrass with other drugs or herbs.
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