Wheatgrass does have some documented health benefits. It is a great source of fiber, which can help maintain bowel regularity. Wheatgrass also has antibacterial properties, is a good source of iron, and may help reduce symptoms of a sore throat when one gargles with its juice. Wheatgrass is about 70% chlorophyll, which can help reduce bad breath and may aid in digestion. Some say that a little wheatgrass on skin wounds may work as well as topical antibacterial creams like Neosporin®

Despite its benefits, the major supporter of wheatgrass juicing, Anne Wigmore, had some very strange ideas regarding its benefits. Wigmore firmly believed that wheatgrass could cure cancer, insanity and the AIDs virus. In fact, for this last belief, the Massachusetts Attorney General sued Wigmore. She won, because the judge ruled Wigmore was exercising her First Amendment rights. However, her claims are far from verifiable.

Still, one sees wheatgrass frequently, especially in popular juice and smoothie stores. The wheatgrass is usually set out in trays where it is picked directly and juiced per a customer’s order. Unfortunately, wheatgrass grown indoors may not have as many benefits as wheatgrass grown outside.

In indoor or greenhouse settings the wheatgrass is often used before it reaches peak nutritional potential. Because these settings are relatively mild, the wheatgrass grows quickly. In fact it grows too quickly to actually have time to fully develop its simple carbohydrates (sugars) into complex carbohydrates. It also may not be as rich in vitamins at this stage than most think.

Instead, scientists have analyzed that wheatgrass grown outdoors or indoors should not be picked until it reaches “jointing.” Jointing occurs just as a plant sprouts seed heads. In most juice stores, wheatgrass is picked prior to jointing occurring.

Many claim wheatgrass provides them with instant energy. This claim may not be far off the mark. Wheatgrass that still contains a lot of simple carbohydrates will be an excellent source of energy, though briefly. However, if the wheatgrass is allowed to reach jointing, it will have complex carbohydrates, vitamins C and E, beta carotene, and potassium.

Wheatgrass is seldom juiced in this manner. Therefore its health benefits may be negligible. However, one may still benefit from the chlorophyll in the wheatgrass.