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Hemoglobin Chlorophyll
The intense green color of wheatgrass juice is due to the chlorophyll content.
The molecular structure of chlorophyll is virtually identical to hemoglobin, the oxygen carrying red pigment of our blood. The major difference between chlorophyl and hemoglobin tis the central metal atom. In hemoglobin the centeral atom is Iron (Fe), and in chlorophyll it is Magnesium (Mg)(see above image).
Anemia of Thalassemia
This similarity in chemical structure is thought to explain the beneficial effect of wheatgrass juice in cases of chronic anemia such as thalassemia. A report from India showed reduction of transfusion requirements in children with thalassemia who received wheatgrass juice therapy.
Anemia from Chemotherapy
According to Bar-Sela at Rambam Medical Center, wheatgrass juice prevents bone marrow toxicity from chemotherapy without diminishing the effects of the chemo. This study was done in terminal breast cancer patients who noted improvement in blood count after wheatgrass therapy.
Inflammatory Conditions
Wheatgrass juice has also a long history of use as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and as promoter of wound healing. A 2002 report showed that Wheat grass juice appeared safe and effective as a treatment for Ulcerative Colitis, an inflammatory condition of the colon. Chris Reynolds, an Australian Practitioner, has also reported success with Crohn's disease, an inflammatory condition of the small bowel.
A 1988 review article by Chernomorsky & Segelman reported anti-inflammatory, wound healing and odor reducing capabilities of chlorophyllin (a component of wheatgrass). Chlorophyllin has bacteriostatic properties aiding in wound healing, and stimulates the production of hemoglobin and erythrocytes in anemic animals. It has been used to treat various kinds of skin lesions, burns and ulcers where it acts as a wound healing agent, stimulating granulation tissue and epithelization.
Research from the 1940's describe improved healing for osteomyelitis, deep suppurative or draining wounds, diabetic ulcers, Vincent's stomatitis and pyorrhea.
According to Benjamin Gruskin, M.D., benefits of wheatgrass juice extend to clear up foul smelling odors, neutralize strep infections, heal wounds, hasten skin grafting, cure chronic sinusitis, overcome chronic inner-ear inflammation and infection, reduce varicose veins and heal leg ulcers, eliminate impetigo and other scabby eruptions, heal rectal sores, successfully treat inflammation of the uterine cervix, get rid of parasitic vaginal infections, reduce typhoid fever, and cure advanced pyorrhea in many cases.
Dr. Chris Reynolds, a wheatgrass practitioner from Australia recommends
wheatgrass for treatment of various conditions: Acne, Alopecia, Anal fissure, Crohn's Disease, Eczema, Hematoma (bruising), Molluscum contagiosum, Multiple sclerosis, Skin and skin-related conditions, Sports and soft tissue injuries, Wound healing.
My Own Experience with WheatGrass:
I was so intrigued by the benefits of wheatgrass, this motivated me to try it myself. I called Rafael (786-306-7124 miami area) who grows trays of wheatgrass and delivers them directly to your home. One point he mentions is that he irrigates with ocean water so the wheatgrass juice contains bioavailable minerals from sea.
I then prepared the wheatgrass juice daily by cutting the wheatgrass and placing it into my Omega Juicer. This home prepared fresh juice was much sweeter and palatable than the juice bar variety. I noticed more energy, clarity of mind, improvement in mood, and a general anti-inflammatory effect. I noticed that aches and pains seemed to disappear and old areas of hidden inflammation or infection seemed to resolve. There is something to this wheatgrass juice that is very beneficial.
A Fertile Ground for New Research.
