Barley grass has been gathered, valued and cultivated for thousands of years. Long before modern supplements existed, ancient cultures harvested the young green shoots of the barley plant for nourishment. Today, barley grass powder has re-emerged as a gentle, nutrient-rich green that fits naturally into smoothies and daily wellness routines. This guide explores how barley grass is grown, how it is processed, and what benefits are actually supported by evidence.
What you will learn
- Where barley grass comes from and how it has been used historically
- How organic barley grass is grown and processed today
- Its key nutrients and what they actually do
- A simple, precise health comparison
- How to use barley grass powder in your routine
What organic barley grass actually is
Barley grass refers to the young leaves of the barley plant, harvested before the grain develops. At this early stage, the shoots contain chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and small amounts of plant enzymes. Because the grain has not yet formed, barley grass is naturally gluten-free. Dr. Yoshihide Hagiwara is a Japanese doctor, scientist, inventor, pharmacologist, and entrepreneur. Hagiwara conducted research on over 200 plant species in 13 years. He found that barley grass is unique. It is the only vegetation on earth that can supply nutritional support from birth to old age. It is the most excellent source of nutrients the body needs for growth, repair and well being.
Historical texts suggest that ancient Egyptians harvested both the grain and the early shoots. Barley is referenced in religious and cultural contexts throughout early human civilization.
How organic barley grass is grown
Most high-quality barley grass begins with outdoor, organic cultivation:
- Seeds are planted in autumn.
- Shoots grow slowly for 4–5 months, absorbing minerals from the soil.
- Exposure to natural sunlight supports chlorophyll formation.
- No synthetic pesticides or fertilizers are used.
- Water for irrigation is typically sourced from deep, uncontaminated groundwater.
The rich alluvial soils of Canterbury plains in New Zealand nourish the crops. These soils are considered one of the best regions in the world for the cultivation of barley grass. The pure glacier water of the Southern Alps sends fresh irrigation water to the low-lying fertile soil. About 80% of the country’s crops come from this area. As a result, the Canterbury Plains are often called the ‘granary of New Zealand’. They are also known for their green patchwork of farmland.
Why timing of harvest matters
Barley grass must be harvested just before the transition from leaf to grain. At this point, nutrient density is generally at its highest. Once the plant begins forming grain:
- Leaf chlorophyll declines
- Enzymatic activity decreases
- The leaves become fibrous and less nutrient-dense
This is why reputable growers harvest at a young, green stage rather than at full height.
How organic barley grass is processed
The goal of processing is to preserve nutrients while preventing oxidation.
Cutting and selection
Young shoots are:
- cut by hand or specialized machinery
- transported instantly for processing
- washed and inspected, with damaged leaves removed
Drying and milling
The leaves are then dried at controlled temperatures and milled into a fine powder.
Some producers use freeze-drying, which helps preserve colour and heat-sensitive micronutrients.
68 Micronutrients found in Barley Grass
| Beta Carotene | Biotin |
| Choline | Folic Acid |
| Niacin | Pantothenic Acid |
| Vitamin A | Vitamin B1 |
| Vitamin B2 | Vitamin B6 |
| Vitamin B12 | Vitamin C |
| Vitamin E | Vitamin F |
| Vitamin K | Vitamin P |
| Boron | Calcium |
| Chloride | Chromium |
| Cobalt | Copper |
| Iodine | Iron |
| Magnesium | Manganese |
| Nickel | Phosphorus |
| Potassium | Selenium |
| Sodium | Sulfur |
| Zinc |
| Alanine | Arginine |
| Aspartic Acid | Cystine |
| Glutamic Acid | Glycine |
| Histidine | Isoleucine |
| Leucine | Lysine |
| Methionine | Phenylalaline |
| Proline | Serine |
| Threonine | Tryptophan |
| Tyrosine | Valine |
| Aspartate Aminiotransfera | Catalase |
| Cytoichrome Oxidase | Hexokinase |
| Malic Dehydrogenase | Nitrate Reductase |
| Nitrogen Oxyredutase | Peroxidase |
| Peroxidase Catalase | Phospatase |
| Phospholipase | Polyphenoloxidase |
| Rnase | Superoxide Dismutase |
| Transhydroegnase |
Organic Barley is a very powerful antioxidant because of its oxygen radical absorbent capacity or ORAC Value. This substance reduces oxidative damage caused by free radicals. The Organic Barley Grass has 25,500 ORAC Value per 100 grams (Antioxidant value), which is 2,000x higher than Spinach. The higher the ORAC value the better in fighting diseases.
Health Benefits
What is supported:
- It is a nutrient-rich green leaf powder.
- It provides vitamins and minerals consistent with leafy greens.
- It can be a convenient way to add chlorophyll-rich greens to your diet.
- It blends well into smoothies.
- It helps detoxifies the body.
- It corrects excess acids by regulating the body’s natural pH.
- It is one of the most nutritious plant on earth.
- It supports all organ systems across all ages.
Barley grass is an easy, nutrient-rich green to add to smoothies or juices.
Practical ways to use barley grass
- Add 1 teaspoon to smoothies.
- Mix with water and citrus for a bright, earthy tonic.
- Combine with other greens for a nutrient-rich juice.
- Add to homemade energy balls or yogurt bowls.
Avoid mixing barley grass powder into very hot liquids, as heat can degrade certain compounds.
For a beauty-focused choice, try Barley Fusion with Korean Collagen.
A great choice for anyone who prefers the pure, original flavour of barley without Stevia, try AUS Best Barley To Go