Barley Grass
hordeum distychum (distichon) L.
Poaceae

AKAs
Barley grass

Parts used
grain

Contraindications/Notes
None known with intake/use of appropriate therapeutic dosages.

Used as a malt extract.

Constituents
Pearl Barley contains about 80 per cent of starch and
about 6 per cent of proteins, cellulose, etc.

Active Constituents and Effects
polysaccharides

strengthens bones
soothing on the alimentary tract.

In what conditions supportive
Osteoporosis

Medicinal Action and Uses
Pearl Barley is used for the preparation of a decoction
which is a nutritive and demulcent drink
in febrile conditions and in catarrhal affections
of the respiratory and urinary organs:
barley water is used to dilute cows' milk for young infants,
it prevents the formation of hard masses of curd in the stomach.

Malt is produced from barley by a process
of steeping and drying which develop a ferment 'diatase' needed
for the production of alcoholic malt liquors,
--- but in the form of Malt Extract it is largely used in medicine.

Vinegar is an acid liquid produced by oxidation of fermented malt wort.
Malt vinegar is the only vinegar that should be used medicinally.

Dosage and Preparation
---Barley water.
Pearl Barley washed 10 parts,
water to 100 parts, boil for 20 minutes, strain.
Dose, 1 to 4 oz.

Adulterants
Pearl Barley is sometimes treated with french chalk and starch
to whiten it and increase the weight.

History /or Traditional Use
Traditionally used for; diarrhea,
gastritis and bowel conditions.

HABITAT
cultivated worldwide