Wheatgrass Powder (Triticum aestivum)

Powdered dried young wheat grass - the green shoots of Triticum aestivum (wheat) harvested before the grain develops. Wheatgrass is among the most nutrient-dense whole foods on a calorie-for-calorie basis, with substantial chlorophyll, vitamins (A, C, E, K, B-complex), minerals, and amino acids. Modern interest in wheatgrass dates to the 1930s research and Hippocrates Health Institute popularization of "living foods" in the 1950s-60s.

Important: Gluten Cross-Contamination Note

Pure wheatgrass blades contain no gluten - gluten develops only in the wheat seed/grain (which is not harvested for grass juice). However, commercial wheatgrass may be cross-contaminated with gluten-containing material at the processing or harvest stage. Individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity should only use wheatgrass from sources providing certified gluten-free testing.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Triticum aestivum (the same species as wheat grain - harvested young as grass)

Family

Poaceae (grass family)

Harvest stage

Young grass blades before grain development

Notable content

Chlorophyll, vitamins A/C/E/K/B-complex, iron, calcium, magnesium, amino acids

Common uses

Daily nutritional supplementation, "green drinks," juicing

Gluten note

Pure grass contains no gluten; cross-contamination is the concern for celiacs

What is Wheatgrass?

Wheatgrass is the young green shoots of the wheat plant, harvested before the seed/grain develops. The grass is exceptionally rich in chlorophyll - typically 70%+ chlorophyll content by dry weight - and contains substantial vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in a bioavailable form. The grass blades are not the same as the wheat grain; pure wheatgrass contains no gluten (gluten is in the grain protein). Wheatgrass became popularized in the modern health movement primarily through Ann Wigmore and the Hippocrates Health Institute in the 1950s-60s.

How to Use Wheatgrass Powder

Smoothies: 1-2 teaspoons blended into fruit smoothies (the flavor is grassy and intense). "Green shots": 1 teaspoon in 2-4 oz of water or juice taken as a small daily shot. Capsules: encapsulated for users avoiding the flavor. The grassy intensity is the main barrier to use; blending with sweet fruit smoothies masks the flavor effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is wheatgrass safe for celiacs?
Pure wheatgrass contains no gluten, but commercial products may be cross-contaminated. Celiacs should only use certified gluten-free wheatgrass.

What does wheatgrass taste like?
Intensely grassy and slightly bitter - most users blend with fruit smoothies to mask the flavor.

How much chlorophyll does it contain?
Typically 70%+ chlorophyll by dry weight.

Why is it nutritionally dense?
Young grass blades concentrate chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in a bioavailable form.

What's the difference between wheatgrass and barley grass?
Different grass species with similar nutritional profiles. Wheatgrass (Triticum) and barley grass (Hordeum) are sometimes blended in commercial green powders.

Did the Hippocrates Health Institute really popularize wheatgrass?
Yes; Ann Wigmore's Hippocrates Health Institute (founded 1956) was the primary popularizer of wheatgrass as a modern health food.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.