Barley
Barley
Barley, also known as Yava in Ayurveda, is the fourth most important cereal crop after wheat, maize and rice. It is rich in dietary fibers which makes it a highly nutritional food.
Barley grass juice aids in weight loss as it reduces blood cholesterol and triglycerides due to its antioxidant properties. It also increases metabolism and reduces hunger pangs which help control excessive eating, thereby managing weight. Barley seeds are beneficial for kidneys as they increase urine production and prevent the growth and formation of stones due to their diuretic properties.
As per Ayurveda, Barley has Rechana (laxative) property which helps to provide relief from constipation when added to the diet.
Consuming Barley water not only increases breast milk production but also improves digestion of the mother as well as the baby. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their physician before consuming Barley.
You can apply a paste of powdered Barley seeds with coconut oil to improve skin health. It protects the skin cells from damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant properties. Young green Barley leaves help in skin whitening as they contain a compound (tricin) that inhibits the synthesis of melanin (a natural pigment in the body that make the skin, hair and eyes appear darker)[3][6][17][26][30][31].
Barley grass juice aids in weight loss as it reduces blood cholesterol and triglycerides due to its antioxidant properties. It also increases metabolism and reduces hunger pangs which help control excessive eating, thereby managing weight. Barley seeds are beneficial for kidneys as they increase urine production and prevent the growth and formation of stones due to their diuretic properties.
As per Ayurveda, Barley has Rechana (laxative) property which helps to provide relief from constipation when added to the diet.
Consuming Barley water not only increases breast milk production but also improves digestion of the mother as well as the baby. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their physician before consuming Barley.
You can apply a paste of powdered Barley seeds with coconut oil to improve skin health. It protects the skin cells from damage caused by free radicals due to its antioxidant properties. Young green Barley leaves help in skin whitening as they contain a compound (tricin) that inhibits the synthesis of melanin (a natural pigment in the body that make the skin, hair and eyes appear darker)[3][6][17][26][30][31].
What are the synonyms of Barley?
Hordeum vulgare, Kulekhara, Jau, Jav, Cheno, Javegambu, Yava, Java, Javo, Barlibiyam, Yava Dhanya, Dhanyaraja, Tiksnasuka, Hayesta, Divya, Yay, Jave godi, Barli Akki, Yavam, Baarli, Barliarisi, Yavalu, Barlibiyam, Tella Tumma[1].
What is the source of Barley?
Plant Based
Benefits of Barley
Modern Science View
Barley is effective in managing the High cholesterol levels due to its high soluble fiber content. It contains fibers (beta-glucan) that are responsible for reducing cholesterol and thereby, managing heart diseases[5].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol occurs due to an imbalance of Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) which lead to the build-up of ‘bad’ cholesterol in the body. Taking Barley in your daily diet helps manage High cholesterol due to its Kapha balancing and Lekhana (scrapping) properties. It also prevents the build up of bad cholesterol and removes Ama, thus maintaining a normal level of cholesterol in the body, thereby reducing the risk of heart problems as well.
Tip to use Barley to manage High cholesterol level
a. Take 2-2.5gm of Barley powder (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water after taking light food.
c. Repeat regularly to maintain normal cholesterol level.
Tip to use Barley to manage High cholesterol level
a. Take 2-2.5gm of Barley powder (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water after taking light food.
c. Repeat regularly to maintain normal cholesterol level.
Modern Science View
Barley grass powder might help be helpful in reducing the risk of Stomach cancer due to the presence of flavonoids. Intake of flavonoids has been linked to a reduced risk of Stomach cancer due to their strong antioxidant activity that reduces oxidative stress by preventing free radical damage[23].
Modern Science View
Young Barley grass juice or water might be helpful in Colorectal cancer as it has antioxidant properties. These antioxidants protect the normal colon cells from free radical damage and inhibit the growth of cancer cells[7].
Ayurvedic View
In Ayurveda, Bronchitis is known as Kasroga and is considered to be caused by poor digestion and imbalance of Kapha dosha. Poor diet and incomplete elimination of waste leads to the formation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the form of mucous in the lungs. In Spite of being Sita (cold) in nature, Barley helps manage bronchitis due to its Kapha balancing property. It helps prevent the formation of mucus in the lungs, thus providing relief in the symptoms of Bronchitis.
Modern Science View
Barley grass juice might help promote Weight loss as it reduces the body weight, BMI, blood triglycerides and cholesterol levels - all the factors responsible for weight gain. This is due to the presence of certain antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress in the cells and inhibit the absorption of dietary lipids and plasma triglycerides[9][11].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, weight gain starts because of change in lifestyle and diet choices that lead to an imbalance of doshas in the body. This imbalance weakens the digestive fire, which increases accumulation of Ama, and leads to an imbalance in Meda Dhatu and results in Obesity. Barley helps manage obesity due to its Kapha balancing and Lekhana (scrapping) properties. It helps reduce the accumulated Ama, ultimately resulting in Weight loss.
Tip
a. Take 1 Barley grass tablet (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water.
c. Repeat daily to maintain normal weight.
Tip
a. Take 1 Barley grass tablet (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water.
c. Repeat daily to maintain normal weight.
How effective is Barley?
Likely effective
High cholesterol, Stomach cancer
Likely ineffective
Cancer of colon and rectum
Insufficient evidence
Inflammation of the airways (bronchitis), Weight loss
Precautions when using Barley
Advice from Experts
Important
Modern Science View
Individuals allergic to Barley flour or beer should avoid consuming Barley products as it might result in severe allergic reactions or skin rashes[12].
Important
Modern Science View
Although Barley has anti-inflammatory properties, it is advisable for gluten-intolerant people to avoid its consumption. It contains gluten (hordein) which might lead to inflammation in the intestines of gluten-intolerant individuals (such as those with celiac disease)[22].
Allergy
Modern Science View
People suffering from Bakers’ asthma i.e. an allergic response from breathing cereal flour should take caution while working in baking and milling industries where Barley is used as it might aggravate allergy[12].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Barley is considered safe during breastfeeding except for women suffering from celiac disease[13].
Minor Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Barley contains high fiber content which might interfere with the absorption of medication taken orally. It is advisable to take medicines 1 hour before or 2 hours after consuming Barley[12].
Other Interaction
Modern Science View
Barley might reduce blood sugar levels. It is advisable to avoid its consumption along with medication, herbs or supplements that lower blood sugar[12].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available, traditionally, pregnant women have been advised to avoid the intake of large amounts of Barley sprouts[12].
How to use Barley
1. Barley Powder
a. Take 2-2.5gm of Barley powder (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water before meals.
c. Repeat regularly to maintain normal cholesterol level.
2. Barley Grass tablet
a. Take 1 Barley grass tablet (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water.
c. Repeat daily to maintain normal weight.
3. Barley Soup
a. Add ½ cup unrefined Barley with 2½ cups of water in a pan and bring to a boil.
b. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes.
c. Add 1½ tablespoon of honey and mix well.
d. Cool, strain and add juice of ½ a lemon.
e. Drink it lukewarm throughout the day depending upon the severity of the of UTI condition or as directed by the physician.
a. Take 2-2.5gm of Barley powder (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water before meals.
c. Repeat regularly to maintain normal cholesterol level.
2. Barley Grass tablet
a. Take 1 Barley grass tablet (or as directed by a physician).
b. Consume it with lukewarm water.
c. Repeat daily to maintain normal weight.
3. Barley Soup
a. Add ½ cup unrefined Barley with 2½ cups of water in a pan and bring to a boil.
b. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes.
c. Add 1½ tablespoon of honey and mix well.
d. Cool, strain and add juice of ½ a lemon.
e. Drink it lukewarm throughout the day depending upon the severity of the of UTI condition or as directed by the physician.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Yes, you can drink Barley water daily as it has various nutritional benefits as it is rich in fiber and low in fat content. However, it is a high-calorie drink and its consumption should be limited to 2 times a day.
Modern Science View
Yes, Barley is a better choice than rice as it does not have a high glycemic index as compared to rice. In addition, it has high fiber content that aids in weight loss.
Modern Science View
Rinsed Barley grains and water should be boiled in a saucepan. After a boil, it should be simmered for 25-30 minutes so that the grains are cooked and become soft.
Modern Science View
Barley has high nutritional value and can be added to your regular diet. Hulled Barley or Pearl Barley can be used, however, hulled Barley takes longer time to cook. Once cooked, Barley can be added to soups, stews or salads. It can also be used as a side dish instead of rice. Barley can also be used in place of oats as breakfast porridge.
Modern Science View
A complete protein food is referred to as a dietary source that provides all nine essential amino acids in the diet. Barley is not a complete protein but it can be taken along with pulses to achieve complete protein.
Modern Science View
Yes, Barley should be soaked overnight before cooking so as to reduce the cooking time. However, Pearl Barley does not need soaking as it becomes tender easily while cooking.
Modern Science View
Pearl barley is a polished or refined form of Barley. It can be cooked more quickly than hulled barley but is lower in nutrients. The refinement process of Barley removes some or all of the fiber-rich outer bran layer along with the hull. Studies on pearl Barley suggest that pearled barley intake can reduce blood cholesterol levels and visceral fat (fat stored near abdomen)[31].
Modern Science View
Wheat and Barley are two major crops used around the world. Appearance of both these crops is very similar on the surface, but they do have some differences in terms of how they are processed, used and provide health benefits. The nutrient composition of barley and wheat may also differ as it depends on the amount of processing each grain has gone through.
References
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- Thatiparthi J, Dodoala S, Koganti B, et al. Barley grass juice (Hordeum vulgare L.) inhibits obesity and improves lipid profile in high fat diet-induced rat model.J Ethnopharmacol.2019;238:111843.
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- Minaiyan M, Ghannadi A, Movahedian A, et al. Effect of Hordeum vulgare L. (Barley) on blood glucose levels of normal and STZ-induced diabetic rats.Res Pharm Sci.2014;9(3):173-8.
- Shah JG, Patel BG, Patel SB, et al. Protective Effect of Hordeum vulgare Linn. Seeds Against Renal Oxidative Stress In Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats.Journal of Pharmacy Research.2012;5(7):3577-3581.
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- Shah JG, Patel BG, Patel SB, et al. Antiurolithiatic and antioxidant activity of Hordeum vulgare seeds on ethylene glycol-induced urolithiasis in rats.Indian J Pharmacol.2012;44(6):672-7.
- Wahman LF, Abd-Rabo MM, Youseef MHM, et al. The effect of Hordeum vulgare on the monoaminergic system modulating neural-thyroid dysfunction in hypothyroid female rats.Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand).2019;65(4):53-62.
- Lupton JR, Morin JL, Robinson MC. Barley bran flour accelerates gastrointestinal transit time.J Am Diet Assoc.1993;93(8):881-5.
- Ikeguchi O, Tsubata M, Takano A, et al. Effects of Young Barley Leaf Powder on Gastrointestinal Functions in Rats and Its Efficacy-Related Physicochemical Properties.Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2014;Article ID 974840,7 pages.
- Aoe S, Ichinose Y, Kohyama N, et al. Effects of high β-glucan barley on visceral fat obesity in Japanese individuals: A randomized, double-blind study.Nutrition.2017;42:1-6.
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- Zeng Y, Pu X, Yang J, et al. Preventive and Therapeutic Role of Functional Ingredients of Barley Grass for Chronic Diseases in Human Beings.Oxid Med Cell Longev.2018 ;2018:3232080
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- Fusté NP, Guasch M, Guillen P, et al. Barley β-glucan accelerates wound healing by favoring migration versus proliferation of human dermal fibroblasts.Carbohydr Polym.2019;210:389-398.
- Meng TX, Irino N, Kondo R. Melanin biosynthesis inhibitory activity of a compound isolated from young green barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) in B16 melanoma cells.J Nat Med.2015;69(3):427-31.
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Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.