We’re getting into a subject now that was hard for me to swallow.  Not because I didn’t believe all the positive benefits of wheatgrass.  I just couldn’t handle the taste.

Apparently, based on talking to other juicing enthusiasts, they have had similar feelings about being turned off by the unpleasant taste of wheatgrass.  However, when you consider the incredible and multiple health benefits of wheatgrass it is definitely worthy of a second look.

Wheatgrass is a powerful source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes.  And research indicates that wheatgrass possesses wellness properties that protect and heal the body.

Wheatgrass is touted by many as a protection from cancer as well as a remedy for the dread disease.  It is a strong detoxification agent, increasing blood flow as well as promoting good digestive health.

In addition, wheatgrass aids in oxygenating and alkalizing the blood, suppressing appetite, regulating the thyroid, and boosting the immune system.

Wheatgrass has a much higher concentration of chlorophyll than other green vegetables.  At 70% nothing else comes close.  Chlorophyll is believed by some to be effective in reducing the rate of colon cancer.

After seeing these amazing benefits you can see why wheatgrass is an important ingredient in many juicing recipes.

If you are interested in purchasing fresh wheatgrass it is readily available at many health food stores.  It is generally sold in flats and can be found already juiced or frozen.  However, the most potent wheatgrass juice is that which is juiced and consumed immediately.

Another way to attain wheatgrass is to grow it yourself.  Seed is sold at health food stores.  Just be sure to use organic soil.  A good technique is to use flats or shallow containers.  Grow several at a time and rotate them.  One will grow while the other is being used for juicing.  Usually after the grass has been clipped you can let it grow for at least one more cutting.

As previously mentioned wheatgrass juice can be purchased in other forms like liquid or frozen.  Wheatgrass supplements are available in tablets and powder but lack the potency of fresh wheatgrass juice.

Most people can’t handle the taste of plain wheatgrass juice.  To make it more palatable other foods are combined with it. Carrots, apples, pineapple, and cucumbers are often juiced and mixed with wheatgrass to enhance the flavor.  You can also use organic honey or stevia as a sweetener.

Other greens combined with wheatgrass are parsley, celery, alfalfa sprouts, kale, and dandelion.  Ginger and garlic are also added to soften the flavor.

In order to juice wheatgrass a special device is required called a masticating juicer.  These juicers typically sell for aroune $30 to $100.  In appearance masticating juicers look similar to meat grinders.  They work by squeezing or pressing the moisture out of the grass.

It is possible to use a standard juicer but it is not as effective.   Roll up wheatgrass in spinach leaves prior to inserting into the juicer.  Immediately follow with a juicy fruit like pinapple.  This will help move the grass through the juicer and also contribute to a better taste.

Wheatgrass is hard on the stomach.  You should not drink more than 4 ounces per day and only after working yourself up to that amount.  Start with 1 ounce and then gradually build up to the 4 ounce maximum.  Too much wheatgrass will cause nausea and an upset stomach.

Also, you should not consume the maximum 4 ounces in one serving.  Two 2 ounce servings at different times of the day will be less troublesome for your stomach.

Wheatgrass is most effective when consumed on an empty stomach.  However, if it causes intestinal problems then you can move it closer to meals.

Due to high levels of chlorophyll wheatgrass juice is similar in composition to blood.  It is to plants what blood is to the human body.

Most people involved in wheatgrass juicing report getting an energy boost from wheatgrass like coffee or tea.  The major difference, of course, is that wheatgrass is genuinely good for you.