Barley – Jau – Hordeum Vulgare
Barley has a lot of vitamins and nutrients, is high in fiber, and has comparatively few calories. There are numerous types of barley, from summer barley to winter barley, each with a unique number of grains per spike. Winter barley is mostly utilized in animal feed because of the poor quality of the grain.
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Most of us keep barley in our kitchen, but very few of us are aware of all the good things it can do for our health and appearance. Barley has a lot of vitamins and nutrients, is high in fiber, and has comparatively few calories. There are numerous types of barley, from summer barley to winter barley, each with a unique number of grains per spike. Winter barley is mostly utilized in animal feed because of the poor quality of the grain. Barley is used to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar as well as to aid in weight loss. This article let us know what are the incredible benefits of barley, its uses and some of the side effects.
Synonyms of Barley
- Jau
- Hordeum vulgare
- Yava
Nutritional Facts of Barley
One-half cup of uncooked barley contains:-
| Calories: | 354 |
| Carbs: | 73.5 grams |
| Fiber: | 17.3 grams |
| Protein: | 12.5 grams |
| Fat: | 2.3 grams |
Phytochemical Constituents of Barley
- Phenolic acids
- Flavonoids
- Lignans
- Tocols
- Phytosterols and folate
Therapeutic Uses of Barley
- Boosts Digestion
Barley’s high fiber content is essential for increasing bowel movement and preventing constipation by giving stools more volume. Barley consumption regularly helps to keep the balance of beneficial bacteria in the stomach. Barley’s impressive nutritional profile can aid in the prevention of cancerous cells in the gastrointestinal system.
- Prevents UTIs
Urinary tract infections can be treated naturally by drinking barley water. It is a diuretic that stimulates urination and aids in the removal of toxins and germs that might cause infections in the body.
- Reduces Cholesterol Levels
The beta-glucan found in barley reduces the amount of bad cholesterol that binds to bile acids. Barley boosts good cholesterol levels and reduces triglyceride levels as a result.
- Control Diabetes
For diabetics, barley is the ideal whole grain to include in their regular diet because it helps to normalize blood sugar levels and enhances insulin sensitivity. Magnesium is abundant in barley, which serves to enhance insulin secretion and the body’s absorption of glucose.
- Relieves Symptoms of Arthritis
Copper present in barley is useful in easing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Free radicals are neutralized by copper, aiding in cell regeneration.
- It May help lose weight
Soluble fiber, which is abundant in barley, reduces hunger cravings and increases feelings of fullness, both of which aid in maintaining a healthy weight.
Home Remedies of Barley
- Heals Wounds
Barley contains zinc, which aids in skin healing and wound restoration. You may notice a sizable decrease in face lesions or sores after taking barley powder or using it as a paste daily for a few months.
- Lights The Skin Tone
The anti-inflammatory effects of barley are very useful to improve skin tone. Barley water can be used topically to treat skin conditions like acne and infections. It works as a natural exfoliator and also controls oil production thus improving skin tone.
- Stop Hair Loss
Iron and copper, which are abundant in barley, help alleviate anemia and boost the synthesis of red blood cells. It prevents hair loss.
- Boosts Bone Health
Due to its high phosphorus, calcium, and copper content, barley helps to maintain healthy bones and teeth. Compared to milk, barley juice contains higher calcium.
Have A Health Issue?
Consult Online
- Dr. Sahil Gupta (B.A.M.S., M.H.A.)
Ayurvedic Allergy Specialist
CEO & Founder of IAFA®
Ayurvedic Aspects of Barley
Barley has been referred to as Yavam in Ayurveda. According to it, It is a good laxative, induces feces, and Vata dosha in the intestines, which is an aphrodisiac and enhances stability as it clears the channels due to its unique activity. It treats urinary tract conditions, balances pitta and Kapha doshas, and fixes fat metabolism. It lessens rhinitis, asthma, coughing, thigh discomfort, and disorders of the skin and throat. Yava enhances Vata because of its dry (ruksha) and light ( laghu guna) qualities, yet it also opens the channels and boosts bala (strength).
Daily Dose: One cup of barley is enough for a day.
Side Effects of Barley
- Stomach problems
Barley includes a very good amount of dietary fiber. Having them in excess can cause gas. So, to avoid gas development, attempt to reduce the amount of barley water you consume.It may also cause modest to severe signs like an ache, bloating, cramps, and occasionally even loose stools or diarrhea.
- Allergic Reactions
Barley water can also frequently cause allergic responses. So, moderate your daily intake of barley water if you’ve experienced hypersensitivity or an allergy. If not, you could get a variety of symptoms, including hives, rashes, irritation, skin allergies, nasal allergies, and even anaphylaxis.
- Celiac disease
If you are suffering from Celiac disease avoid consuming barley as this disease is caused by gluten intolerance and also sometimes referred to as wheat allergy. And barley contains a lot of gluten in it so stop consuming it if you are suffering from gluten intolerance.
Conclusion
Barley has numerous advantages. It is a particular wholesome and nourishing grain. It is abundant in minerals, vitamins, and other plant-based ingredients. Due to its high fibre content, it promotes better digestion and aids in weight loss. Several varieties of barley have excellent health advantages. But when consumed in excess Barley water might have negative effects. Intestinal gas, stomach pain, constipation, and allergic responses could all result from it. Additionally, individuals with celiac disease may experience problems due to the gluten in it. Stop drinking barley water and see an expert if you start to experience any wheat and gluten intolerances.
You can consult Dr. Gupta at IAFA if you notice any type of allergy from barley as he manages allergies and other intolerances through ayurvedic herbs and remedies.
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28911532/#:~:text=Whole%20grain%20barley%20also%20contains,the%20risk%20of%20certain%20diseases.
