A Natural Alternative to Health Remedies: Barley

Barley has been known to be a very rich source of fiber, amino acids, and antioxidants. A tablespoon of dried barley is supposedly the equivalent of the body's daily requirement of various vitamins and minerals such as beta-carotene, betaine, biotin, boron, copper, iron, lutein, magnesium, niacin, riboflavin, thiamine, alpha-linoleic acid, oryzanol, potassium, selenium, zinc, and tocopherol.

Barley grass has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and has been said to fight poor digestion, and depression or emotional imbalance. It is also used for reducing bad cholesterol levels, protection against certain forms or cancer, prevention of gallstones, cleansing of body toxins, reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, development and repair of body tissue, and treating the early symptoms of the common cold. Studies have also shown that barley also lowers the risk of Type 2 Diabetes. It is also a helpful factor with postmenopausal women in aiding the lowering of high blood pressure , high cholesterol levels, and the risk of cardiovascular disease.

The most common form that barley is taken is in the tea form. The barley is often roasted and stewed in hot water and is also available in tea bag form. Barley tea is especially popular among the Korean and Japanese cuisines. It is also used as caffeine-free alternative to coffee for many Americans as well. I personally like drinking teas, and caffeine-free or herbal teas are my absolute favorites. Barley tea definitely comes out on top for me since it is both caffeine-free and beneficial to my overall health. Other common forms of the sue of barley include flakes and flour. Barley flakes can also be used in stews, hot cereals, and soups. Barley flour can also be used to make bread and other pastries giving them a lightly sweet and wholesome flavor.

However, despite barley numerous health benefits, it is recommended that nursing or pregnant women should not use or partake barley as it may stop lactation.

Source: http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=127