Health Benefits of Barley Tea /Barley tea is a popular East Asian drink made from roasted barley. It’s prevalent throughout Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China.

Served both hot and cold, it has a light amber color and mild, toasted flavor with a hint of bitterness.

In traditional Chinese medicine, barley tea is sometimes used to help treat diarrhea, fatigue, and inflammation.

This article reviews barley tea, including how it’s made, its potential benefits and downsides, and how to prepare it.

What it is and how it’s made

Barley is a gluten-containing grain. Its dried kernels are used like many other grains — ground to make flour, cooked whole, or added to soups and stews. It’s also used to make tea.

Barley tea is most commonly made by steeping roasted barley kernels in hot water, although premade tea bags containing ground roasted barley are also readily available in East Asian countries.

Whole barley is rich in B vitamins and the minerals iron, zinc, and manganese, but it’s unclear how much of these nutrients are infused into barley tea during the steeping process (rx).

Traditionally, barley tea is not sweetened, although milk or cream may be added. Similarly, the tea is sometimes mixed with roasted corn tea in South Korea, which adds sweetness. Plus, today you can find sweetened bottled barley tea products in Asian countries.

Barley water, another common drink in Asian countries, is made by boiling raw barley kernels in water rather than steeping them. The soft, boiled kernels can then be removed or left in the water prior to consuming the beverage.

Barley water is also common in countries like Mexico, Spain, and Great Britain, where it’s typically sweetened.

Barley tea is made by steeping roasted barley in hot water. It’s common in East Asian countries and can be enjoyed hot or cold. It differs slightly from barley water, which is made by boiling raw barley kernels.

Benefits

Traditional medicine has used barley tea to combat diarrhea, fatigue, and inflammation. Unfortunately, many of these applications are not supported by research. That said, the tea appears to be completely safe to drink and even offer some health benefits.

Low in calories

Barley tea is essentially free of calories.
Depending on the strength of the brew, it may contain trace amounts of calories and carbs, but not enough to significantly affect your daily intake (rx).
As such, it’s a healthy and flavorful alternative to water, especially if you’re trying to lose weight — provided that you drink it plain with no added milk, cream, or sweeteners.

Antioxidant-rich

Barley tea is rich in antioxidants (rx, rx).
Antioxidants are plant compounds that help prevent free radical damage to your cells. Free radicals are harmful molecules that can cause inflammation and promote cellular dysfunction if they build up in your body (rx).
Several antioxidants have been identified in barley tea, including chlorogenic and vanillic acids, which may aid weight management by boosting how much fat your body burns at rest. These antioxidants also exert anti-inflammatory effects (rx, rx, rx).
Barley tea is also a source of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that may improve heart health, blood pressure, and brain health (rx, rx).

It May have anti-cancer properties

Being an antioxidant-rich whole grain, barley potentially offers cancer-prevention benefits (rx).
One study on regional barley cultivation and cancer mortality in China observed that the lower the barley cultivation and consumption, the higher the cancer mortality. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that cancer is caused by lower barley intake (rx).
Ultimately, more human studies are needed on the potential anti-cancer benefits of barley tea.

Although little research has been conducted on the benefits of barley tea, it’s a calorie-free and antioxidant-rich beverage. It may also provide some antioxidant and anticancer benefits, but more research is needed.

Downsides

Despite its potential anti-cancer benefits, barley tea contains trace amounts of a potentially cancer-causing anti-nutrient called acrylamide (rx).
Studies have observed mixed results, but research is ongoing to better understand acrylamide’s health effects.
One meta-analysis found that dietary acrylamide intake wasn’t related to the risk of most common cancers ( rx).
Meanwhile, another study indicated a higher risk of colorectal and pancreatic cancer with high acrylamide intake among some subgroups (rx).
More acrylamide is released from barley tea bags and lightly roasted barley. As such, to minimize acrylamide in your tea, roast your own barley to a deep, dark brown color before steeping (rx).
What’s more, if you drink the tea regularly, you may want to limit how much sugar and cream you add so that the beverage doesn’t become a significant source of unnecessary calories, fat, and added sugar.
Additionally, barley tea is not appropriate for people who are on a gluten- or grain-free diet, as barley is a gluten-containing grain.

Barley tea may contain small amounts of acrylamide, a potentially cancer-causing anti-nutrient. It’s also not appropriate for people on gluten- or grain-free diets.

Preparation and where to buy

Barley tea is a common beverage in Asian countries, and in some households, it’s consumed instead of water. Given the safety of barley, it’s safe to drink several glasses per day.
To prepare it, you can use either roasted barley or premade tea bags containing ground roasted barley, which are available from specialty stores and Asian grocers, as well as online.
To roast barley, add raw barley kernels to a dry, hot skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for about 10 minutes, or until the barley has browned. Allow the barley to reach a deep, dark brown color to minimize the acrylamide content.
Use 3–5 tablespoons (30–50 grams) of dried roasted barley, or 1–2 barley tea bags, per 8 cups (2 L) water.
To brew the tea, steep the bags or roasted barley in hot water for 5–10 minutes, then strain out the barley kernels if desired.

Barley tea is safe to drink and used as a substitute for water in some Asian households. You can make barley tea from roasted barley or premade tea bags that contain ground roasted barley.

Barley tea is a popular drink in East Asian countries. It has some applications in traditional medicine, but it’s also widely consumed as an everyday beverage.

It’s generally calorie-free, rich in antioxidants, and may provide some anti-cancer benefits. However, more research is needed to better understand the potential benefits of this drink.

It’s also worth noting that the tea contains small amounts of acrylamide, a potentially cancer-promoting compound, and it’s not appropriate for people following a gluten- or grain-free diets.

Ultimately, barley tea is a flavorful drink that can boost your antioxidant intake while adding some variety to your routine.

9 Impressive Health Benefits of Barley

Barley is one of the most widely consumed grains in the American diet (rx).
This versatile grain has a somewhat chewy consistency and a slightly nutty flavor that can complement many dishes.
It’s also rich in many nutrients and packs some impressive health benefits, ranging from improved digestion and weight loss to lower cholesterol levels and a healthier heart.

Here are 9 evidence-based health benefits of barley.

1. Rich in Many Beneficial Nutrients

Barley is rich in vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds. It’s available in many forms, ranging from hulled barley to barley grits, flakes and flour.
Almost all forms of barley utilize the whole grain — except for pearl barley, which has been polished to remove some or all of the outer bran layer along with the hull.
When consumed as a whole grain, barley is a particularly rich source of fiber, molybdenum, manganese and selenium. It also contains good amounts of copper, vitamin B1, chromium, phosphorus, magnesium and niacin (2).
Additionally, barley packs lignans, a group of antioxidants linked to a lower risk of cancer and heart disease (rx).
However, like all whole grains, barley does have antinutrients, which impair your body’s digestion and nutrient absorption.
Try soaking or sprouting the grain to reduce the antinutrient content. These preparation methods make barley’s nutrients more absorbable (rx, rx).
Soaking and sprouting may also increase vitamin, mineral, protein and antioxidant levels (rx, rx). What’s more, you can use sprouted barley flour for baking.

Whole grain barley contains a range of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds. Soaking or sprouting your barley can improve absorption of these nutrients.

2. Reduces Hunger and May Help You Lose Weight

Barley may reduce hunger and promote feelings of fullness — both of which may lead to weight loss over time. Barley lessens hunger largely through its high fiber content. A soluble fiber known as beta-glucan is particularly helpful
That’s because soluble fibers, such as beta-glucan, tend to form a gel-like substance in your gut, which slows the digestion and absorption of nutrients. In turn, this curbs your appetite and promotes fullness (rx, rx, rx).
A review of 44 studies found that soluble fibers, such as beta-glucan, are the most effective type of fiber for reducing appetite and food intake (rx). What’s more, soluble fiber may target belly fat associated with metabolic disease (rx).

Barley contains soluble fiber, which reduces hunger and enhances feelings of fullness. It may even promote weight loss.

Barley can boost your intestinal health. Once again, its high fiber content is responsible — and in this case, particularly its insoluble fiber. Most of the fiber found in barley is insoluble, which — unlike soluble fiber — does not dissolve in water. Instead, it adds bulk to your stool and accelerates intestinal movement, reducing your likelihood of constipation (rx).
In one four-week study in adult women, eating more barley improved bowel function and increased stool volume (rx).
On the other hand, barley’s soluble fiber content provides food for friendly gut bacteria, which, in turn, produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
Research shows that SCFAs help feed gut cells, reducing inflammation and improving symptoms of gut disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (rx, rx, rx).

Barley’s high fiber content helps food move through your gut and promotes a good balance of gut bacteria, both of which play important roles in digestion.

4. May Prevent Gallstones and Reduce Your Risk of Gallbladder Surgery

Barley’s high fiber content may also help prevent gallstones. Gallstones are solid particles that can form spontaneously in your gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder produces bile acids which your body uses to digest fat.
In most cases, gallstones don’t cause any symptoms. However, from time to time, large gallstones can get stuck in a duct of your gallbladder, causing intense pain. Such cases often require surgery to remove the gallbladder.
The type of insoluble fiber found in barley may help prevent the formation of gallstones and reduce the likelihood of gallbladder surgery.
In one 16-year observational study, women with the highest amounts of fiber intake were 13% less likely to develop gallstones requiring gallbladder removal.
This benefit appears to be dose-related, as every 5-gram increase in insoluble fiber intake dropped gallstone risk by around 10% (rx).
In another study, obese individuals were put on one of two rapid weight loss diets — one rich in fiber, the other in protein. Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of developing gallstones.
After five weeks, participants on the fiber-rich diet were three times likelier to have healthy gallbladders than those on the protein-rich diet (rx).

The type of insoluble fiber found in barley may prevent the formation of gallstones, helping your gallbladder function normally and reducing your risk of surgery.

5. Beta-Glucans May Help Lower Cholesterol

Barley may also lower your cholesterol levels. The beta-glucans found in barley have been shown to reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol by binding to bile acids. Your body removes these bile acids — which your liver produces from cholesterol — via the feces.
Your liver must then use up more cholesterol to make new bile acids, in turn lowering the amount of cholesterol circulating in your blood (rx).
In one small study, men with high cholesterol were put on a diet rich in whole wheat, brown rice or barley.
After five weeks, those given barley reduced their cholesterol levels by 7% more than participants on the other two diets. What’s more, the barley group also increased their “good” HDL cholesterol and reduced their triglyceride levels the most (rx).
A recent review evaluating 14 randomized control trials — the gold standard in scientific research — found similar results (rx).
Lab, animal and human studies also show that the SCFAs produced when healthy gut bacteria feed on soluble fiber may help prevent cholesterol production as well, further reducing cholesterol levels (rx, rx).

SUMMARYThe type of insoluble fiber found in barley appears to reduce cholesterol levels by preventing its formation and increasing its excretion through the feces

6. May Reduce Heart Disease Risk

Whole grains are consistently linked to better heart health. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that regularly adding barley to your diet may lower your risk of heart disease.
That’s because barley may lower certain risk factors — in addition to reducing “bad” LDL cholesterol levels, barley’s soluble fiber may bring blood pressure levels down (rx).
In fact, a recent review of randomized control studies observed that an average intake of 8.7 grams of soluble fiber per day may be linked to a modest 0.3–1.6 mmHg reduction in blood pressure (rx).
High blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol are two known risk factors for heart disease. Thus, reducing them may protect your heart.

Regularly adding barley to your diet may reduce risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and “bad” LDL cholesterol.

7. Magnesium and Soluble Fiber May Protect Against Diabetes

Barley may reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels and improving insulin secretion. This is in part due to barley’s rich magnesium content — a mineral that plays an important role in insulin production and your body’s use of sugar (rx).
Barley is also rich in soluble fiber, which binds with water and other molecules as it moves through your digestive tract, slowing down the absorption of sugar into your bloodstream (rrx, rx).
Research shows that a barley breakfast provides a lower maximum rise in blood sugar and insulin levels than a breakfast consisting of other whole grains, such as oats (rx).
In another study, participants with impaired fasting glucose were given either oatmeal or barley flakes daily. After three months, fasting blood sugar and insulin levels decreased by 9–13% more for those eating barley ( rx).

Whole-grain barley may help improve insulin production and reduce blood sugar levels, both of which may reduce the likelihood of type 2 diabetes.

8. May Help Prevent Colon Cancer

A diet rich in whole grains is generally linked to a lower likelihood of many chronic diseases, including certain cancers — especially those of the colon (rx, rx). Again, barley’s high fiber content plays a central role.
Its insoluble fiber specifically helps reduce the time food takes to clear your gut, which appears particularly protective against colon cancers. Additionally, soluble fiber may bind to harmful carcinogens in your gut, removing them from your body (rx, rx).
Other compounds found in barley — including antioxidants, phytic acid, phenolic acids and saponins — may further protect against cancer or slow its development (rx). That said, more human studies are needed before strong conclusions can be drawn.

Fiber and other beneficial compounds found in barley may fight off certain types of cancer, particularly those of the colon. However, more research is needed.

9. Versatile and Easy to Add to Your Diet

Barley is cheap and incredibly easy to add to your diet.
Due to its high fiber content, barley can make a great alternative to more refined grains.
For instance, you can use it as a side dish instead of couscous or white pasta. Barley is also a great alternative to white rice dishes such as pilaf or risotto.
Barley can likewise be added to soups, stuffings, stews, salads and loaves or eaten as part of a hot cereal breakfast. You can also simply buy whole grain bread that contains barley. For a unique twist, add barley to desserts — barley pudding and barley ice cream are just two options.

Barley is cheap, edible warm or cold and easily added to a variety of savory and sweet dishes. Barley is a very healthy grain. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals and other beneficial plant compounds.

It’s also high in fiber, which is responsible for most of its health benefits, ranging from a better digestion to reduced hunger and weight loss.

What’s more, making barley a regular ingredient in your diet may offer protection from chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and even certain types of cancer. To reap the most benefits, avoid processed, pearled barley and stick to whole-grain varieties like hulled barley or barley grits, flakes and flour.

Health Benefits of Barley Water

Barley water is a drink made from water that has been cooked with barley. Sometimes the barley grains are strained out. Sometimes they are simply stirred in and mixed with a sweetener or fruit juice to make a drink that’s similar to lemonade. Barley water is consumed in some cultures for health benefits.

Unstrained barley water is high in calorie content but low in fat. An average cup of barley water can be 700 calories or more. Because of this high-calorie content, you shouldn’t drink more than two servings of unstrained barley water per day. When barley water is strained, or when barley grass is boiled into a tea, the drink has far less calories, but also less fiber, which is the source of many of its benefits.

Barley water is often flavored with lemon rind or lemon juice. The drink claims to help aid weight loss, flush toxins, keep your digestion regular, and more. Some of the health claims about barley water aren’t yet supported by medical research. Keep reading to find out if drinking barley water for health benefits is something you should consider.

Health benefits of barley water

Lowers cholesterol

Drinking barley water or barley tea can affect your cholesterol levels. Chemicals in barley, called tools, have been found to suppress LDL cholesterol and contribute to better overall cardiovascular health. The antioxidants in barley water also scavenge free radicals, which can cut down on the oxidative stress your heart feels from being exposed to toxins. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also [rx] the benefits of barley beta fiber for heart disease and cholesterol.

Controls blood sugar

Barley water has been tested[rx] for its ability to control blood sugar. Drinking unsweetened barley water can give you the benefit of controlling blood sugar spikes. People with diabetes may be particularly interested in the ability of barley water to lower blood sugar after eating. Barley water’s antioxidants help improve diabetes outcomes[rx], too.

Promotes weight loss

The fiber content in unstrained barley water can help your digestion become more regular. It can also make you feel fuller for longer. Barley water hydrates you and contains lots of calories, but very little fat. These factors can make drinking barley water an effective strategy to stave off hunger and keep you from snacking in between meals. Combined with a healthy diet and exercise, barley water can aid in weight loss because it digests slowly [rx] and keeps you fuller for longer.

Rich in vitamins and antioxidants

Whether your barley water is made with pearl barley or hulled barley, it’s rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Folate (a B vitamin), iron, copper, and manganese are all found in large amounts in barley water. The antioxidants in barley water contribute to its many other health benefits because they enable healthy cell growth while getting rid of the free radicals that cause oxidative stress on your organs.

Improves digestion

Cereal grains like barley contain high amounts of digestive fiber. Your body needs digestive fiber to move food through your stomach and out of your bowels. When you drink unstrained barley water, you’re adding a hydration component to this high fiber concentration. This means that your body’s ability to process toxins and get rid of water weight is supercharged. The Mayo Clinic recommends barley as a source of soluble fiber.

May reduce risk of cancer

Emerging cancer research points to the importance of diet and lifestyle choices to lower your risk of cancer. The fiber in barley can help protect your colon by expelling toxins that aren’t being removed during regular digestion. Beyond the fiber it contains, barley also has ferulic acid which may[rx] actually keep tumors from growing. And one study[rx] found that colon cancer cells were stopped from reproducing by the antioxidants found in barley.

Supports the immune system

In addition to the free-radical fighting properties of barley and the vitamins and minerals in barley, barley water can support your immune system in another important way. When you flavor barley water with citrus (like lemon rind or orange peel), you’re giving your drink a supercharge of vitamin C that makes it even more beneficial for your health

Side effects and risks

Just because barley water has many health benefits doesn’t mean that you should consume it in high amounts. Some barley water recipes contain high concentrations of artificial sugars or sweeteners. Always read the ingredients before you drink barley water that’s been processed or packaged. Drinking a lot of barley water when you aren’t used to drinking it can cause constipation or loose stools due to its dense fiber content. And the calorie count of one serving of barley water is equivalent to a full meal, so be careful not to drink too much in one sitting. It is also a gluten-containing grain so it should be avoided for those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Takeaway

Unstrained barley water is a delicious, simple, and refreshing way to get a hearty dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. While too much barley water can put a strain on your digestive system, drinking it a few times a week can help you lose weight and avoid diabetes and heart disease.

10 Healthy Herbal Teas You Should Try

Herbal teas have been around for centuries.

Yet, despite their name, herbal teas are not true teas at all. True teas, including green tea, black tea and oolong tea, are brewed from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant.

On the other hand, herbal teas are made from dried fruits, flowers, spices or herbs.

This means herbal teas can come in a wide range of tastes and flavors and make a tempting alternative to sugary beverages or water.

In addition to being delicious, some herbal teas have health-promoting properties. In fact, herbal teas have been used as natural remedies for a variety of ailments for hundreds of years.

Here is a list of 10 healthy herbal teas you’ll want to try.’

1. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is most commonly known for its calming effects and is frequently used as a sleep aid.
Two studies have examined the effects of chamomile tea or extract on sleep problems in humans.
In one study of 80 postpartum women experiencing sleep issues, drinking chamomile tea for two weeks led toimproved sleep quality and fewer symptoms of depression (rx).
Another study in 34 patients with insomnia found marginal improvements in waking up during the night, time to falling asleep, and daytime functioning after taking chamomile extract twice a day (rx).
What’s more, chamomile may not just be useful as a sleep aid. It is also believed to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and liver-protecting effects (erx).
Studies in mice and rats have found preliminary evidence that chamomile may help fight diarrhea and stomach ulcers (rx, rx).
One study also found that chamomile tea reduced symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, while another study in people with type 2 diabetes saw improvements in blood glucose, insulin and blood lipid levels (rx, rx).
While more research is needed to confirm these effects, preliminary evidence suggests that chamomile tea may offer a range of health benefits.

Chamomile is well known for its calming properties, and preliminary evidence supports this. It may also help relieve premenstrual symptoms and high blood lipid, blood sugar and insulin levels.

2. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is one of the most commonly used herbal teas in the world (rx). While it’s most popularly used to support digestive tract health, it also has antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial and antiviral properties (rx).
Most of these effects have not been studied in humans, so it’s not possible to know if they might lead to health benefits. However, several studies have confirmed peppermint’s beneficial effects on the digestive tract.
Several studies have shown that preparations of peppermint oil, which often included other herbs as well, can help relieve indigestion, nausea, and stomach pain (rx, rx, rx, rx).
Evidence also shows that peppermint oil is effective at relaxing spasms in the intestines, esophagus and colon (rx, rx, rx, rx).
Lastly, studies have repeatedly found that peppermint oil is effective at relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (rx).
Therefore, when you experience digestive discomfort, whether it be from cramping, nausea or indigestion, peppermint tea is a great natural remedy to try.

Peppermint tea is traditionally used to relieve discomfort of the digestive tract. Studies have found that peppermint oil can help relieve nausea, cramping, spasms and stomach pain.

3. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a spicy and flavorful drink that packs a punch of healthy, disease-fighting antioxidants (rx). It also helps fight inflammation and stimulates the immune system, but it’s most well known for being an effective remedy for nausea (rx).
Studies consistently find that ginger is effective at relieving nausea, especially in early pregnancy, although it may also relieve nausea caused by cancer treatments and motion sickness (rx, rx). Evidence also suggests that ginger may help prevent stomach ulcers and relieve indigestion or constipation (rx).
Ginger may also help relieve dysmenorrhea or period pain. A number of studies have found that ginger capsules reduced pain associated with menstruation (rx, rx).
In fact, two studies found ginger to be as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen at relieving period pain (rx, rx).
Finally, some studies suggest that ginger may offer health benefits for people with diabetes, though the evidence has not been consistent. These studies have found that ginger supplements helped with blood sugar control and blood lipid levels (rx, rx, rx).

Ginger tea is best known as a remedy for nausea, and studies have repeatedly found it to be effective for this use. However, several studies have also found that ginger can help relieve period pain, and it may offer benefits for people with diabetes.

4. Hibiscus Tea

Hibiscus tea is made from the colorful flowers of the hibiscus plant. It has a pink-red color and refreshing, tart flavor. It can be enjoyed hot or iced.

In addition to its bold color and unique flavor, hibiscus tea offers healthful properties.

For example, hibiscus tea has antiviral properties, and test-tube studies have shown its extract to be highly effective against strains of the bird flu. However, no evidence has shown that drinking hibiscus tea could help you fight off viruses like the flu .

A number of studies have investigated the effects of hibiscus tea on high blood lipid levels. A few studies have found it to be effective, though a large review study found that it did not have a significant effect on blood lipid levels (29Trusted rx).

Nevertheless, hibiscus tea has been shown to have a positive effect on high blood pressure.

In fact, many studies have found that hibiscus tea reduced high blood pressure, although most studies were not high quality (rx, rx).

What’s more, another study found that taking hibiscus tea extract for six weeks significantly decreased oxidative stress in male soccer players (rx).

Be sure to avoid drinking hibiscus tea if you’re taking hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic medication, as the two may interact with each other. Hibiscus tea may also shorten the effects of aspirin, so it’s best to take them 3–4 hours apart ( rx).

Hibiscus tea may help lower high blood pressure and fight oxidative stress. However, it shouldn’t be taken with a certain diuretic medication or at the same time as aspirin.

5. Echinacea Tea

Echinacea tea is an extremely popular remedy that’s said to prevent and shorten the common cold.

Evidence has shown that echinacea may help boost the immune system, which could help the body fight off viruses or infections (rx).

Many studies have found that echinacea can shorten the duration of the common cold, lessen the severity of its symptoms or even prevent it (rx).

However, results are conflicting, and most studies have not been well designed. This makes it difficult to tell if positive results are due to echinacea or random chance.

Therefore, it’s not possible to say definitively that taking echinacea will help with the common cold.

At the very least, this warm herbal drink may help soothe your sore throat or clear up your stuffy nose if you do feel a cold coming on (rx).

Echinacea tea is commonly used to prevent or shorten the duration of the common cold. While several studies have found it to be effective for this use, the evidence on the matter is conflicting.

6. Rooibos Tea

Rooibos is an herbal tea that comes from South Africa. It is made from the leaves of the rooibos or red bush plant.

South Africans have historically used it for medicinal purposes, but there is very little scientific research on the topic.

Nevertheless, a few animals and human studies have been conducted. So far, studies have failed to show that it’s effective for allergies and kidney stones (rx, rx).

However, one study has shown that rooibos tea may benefit bone health. One test-tube study suggests that rooibos tea, along with green and black tea, might stimulate the cells involved in bone growth and density (rx).

The same study found that the teas also lowered markers of inflammation and cell toxicity. The researchers suggested that this might be why drinking tea is associated with higher bone density.

Moreover, preliminary evidence shows that rooibos tea may help prevent heart disease.

One study found that rooibos tea inhibited an enzyme that causes blood vessels to constrict, similarly to how a common blood pressure medication does (rx).

Also, another study found that drinking six cups of rooibos tea daily for six weeks lowered blood levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and fat, while increasing “good” HDL cholesterol (rx).

Much more research is needed to confirm these effects and discover any further benefits. However, the preliminary evidence shows promise.

Rooibos tea has just recently begun to be studied by scientists. Preliminary evidence suggests that rooibos tea may help improve bone health and reduce heart disease risk, but more studies are needed.

7. Sage Tea

Sage tea is well known for its medicinal properties, and scientific research has begun to support several of its health benefits, especially for brain health.

A number of test-tube, animal and human studies have shown that sage is beneficial for cognitive function, as well as potentially effective against the effects of the plaques involved in Alzheimer’s disease.

In fact, two studies on oral sage drops or sage oil found improvements in the cognitive function of those with Alzheimer’s disease, although the studies had limitations (rx, rx, rx).

Moreover, sage appears to provide cognitive benefits for healthy adults as well.

A number of studies found improvements in mood, mental function and memory in healthy adults after they took one of several different types of sage extract (rx, 4rx, rx, rx).

What’s more, one small human study found that sage tea improved blood lipid levels, while another study in rats found that sage tea protected against the development of colon cancer (rx, rx).

Sage tea appears to be a healthy choice, offering benefits for cognitive health and potentially heart and colon health. More studies are needed to find out more about these effects.

Several studies have found that sage improves cognitive function and memory. It may also benefit colon and heart health.

8. Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm tea has a light, lemony flavor and seems to have health-promoting properties.

In a small study in 28 people who drank either barley tea or lemon balm tea for six weeks, the lemon balm tea group had improved elasticity of the arteries. Arterial stiffness is considered a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and mental decline (rx).

In the same study, those who drank lemon balm tea also had increased skin elasticity, which typically tends to decline with age. However, the study was of poor quality.

Another small study in radiology workers found that drinking lemon balm tea twice a day for one month increased the body’s natural antioxidant enzymes, which help protect the body from oxidative damage to cells and DNA (rx).

As a result, participants also showed improved markers of lipid and DNA damage.

Preliminary evidence has also suggested that lemon balm may improve high blood lipid levels (rx).

Furthermore, a number of studies have shown that lemon balm improved mood and mental performance.

Two studies including 20 participants evaluated the effects of different dosages of lemon balm extract. They found improvements in both calmness and memory (rx, rx).

Another small study found that lemon balm extract helped reduce stress and improve math processing skills ( rx).

Finally, another small study found that lemon balm tea reduced the frequency of heart palpitations and anxiety (rx).

Lemon balm tea may offer a number of potential health benefits and would make a good addition to any herbal tea collection.

SUMMARY:Preliminary studies have found that lemon balm tea may improve antioxidant levels, heart and skin health and even aid in relieving anxiety.

9. Rose Hip Tea

Rosehip tea is made from the fruit of the rose plant.

It is high in vitamin C and beneficial plant compounds. These plant compounds, in addition to certain fats found in rose hips, result in anti-inflammatory properties (rx).

Several studies have looked into the ability of rose hip powder to reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Many of these studies found it effective at reducing inflammation and its related symptoms, including pain (rx, rx, rx).

Rose hips may also be beneficial for weight management, as one 12-week study in 32 overweight people found that taking rosehip extract resulted in decreased BMI and belly fat (rx).

Rose hip’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may also help fight skin aging.

One preliminary study found that taking rosehip powder for eight weeks reduced the depth of wrinkles around the eyes and improved moisture and skin elasticity of the face (rx).

These properties may result in other health benefits as well, though more studies will be needed to confirm these effects and investigate any new ones.

Rose hip tea is high in vitamin C and antioxidants. Its anti-inflammatory properties may reduce inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Studies have also found rose hips effective at fighting aging of the skin and reducing stomach fat.

10. Passionflower Tea

The leaves, stems and flowers of the passionflower plant are used to make passionflower tea.

Passionflower tea is traditionally used to relieve anxiety and improve sleep, and studies have begun to support these uses.

For example, one study found that drinking passionflower tea for one week significantly improved sleep quality scores (rx, rx).

What’s more, two human studies found that passionflower was effective at reducing anxiety. In fact, one of these studies found that passionflower was as effective as an anxiety-relieving medication (rx).

Yet, another study found that passionflower helped relieve the mental symptoms of opioid withdrawal, such as anxiety, irritability and agitation, when taken in addition to clonidine, the medication usually used for opioid detoxification treatment (rx).

Passionflower tea seems to be a good choice when it comes to relieving anxiety and promoting calmness.

Studies have found that passionflower tea may help improve sleep and reduce anxiety.

Herbal teas come in a variety of delicious flavors and are naturally free of sugar and calories.

Many herbal teas also offer health-promoting effects, and modern science has begun to validate some of their traditional uses.

Whether you’re a tea lover or novice, don’t be afraid to give these 10 herbal teas a try.

What’s the Difference Between Barley and Wheat?

Wheat and barley have been grown by humans for thousands of years and were one of the earliest plants to be domesticated.

Today, they’re two of the major crops in the world used for food and drink production, as well as animal feed.

They may look very similar on the surface, but they do have some key differences in terms of how they’re processed and used, their nutrition, and health effects.

This article tells you all you need to know about the most important differences between the two grains.

History and characteristics

Wheat and barley were first domesticated in the Middle East approximately 10,000 years ago and have since been a vital part of human and livestock diets (rx, rx, rx).

Both belong to the grasses family (Poaceae), which includes other crops, such as rice, sugarcane, and corn.

The grains are the fruits, or caryopsis, of the grass plant. These fruits are found on a “spike” or “head,” arranged in vertical rows, similar to an ear of corn (rx).

The grain is made up of three layers.

The inner germ layer is the nutrient-dense core. Outside of this is the endosperm, which contains mostly carbs and proteins that supply the germ layer with energy. The outer layer is called bran, which is rich in fiber, B vitamins, and trace minerals.

Since their original domestication, both grains have been cultivated into many different varieties and subspecies (rx).

The most commonly cultivated wheat variety is bread wheat (Triticum aestivum). Additional types include durum, einkorn, emmer, and spelt (rx, rx).

There are three common types of barley — two-row, six-row, and hull-less. These three types are known under the botanical name Hordeum vulgare L (rx).

Barley and wheat were some of the earliest domesticated crops. They both belong to the grass family, and the grain is actually the fruit of the grass, made up of an inner germ, endosperm, and outer bran layer.

Processing and uses

Wheat

Before wheat can be used, it needs to be milled. Milling refers to the process of cracking the grain to separate the bran and germ from the endosperm and crushing the endosperm into a fine flour.

Whole wheat flour contains all parts of the grain, the germ, endosperm, and bran, while regular milled flour contains just the endosperm.

The milled flour is used for making bread, biscuits, cookies, pasta, noodles, semolina, bulgur, couscous, and breakfast cereals (rx).

Wheat can be fermented to make biofuels, beer, and other alcoholic drinks. It’s also used in smaller amounts for livestock fodder (rx).

Barley

Barley doesn’t need to be milled before use, but it’s usually hulled to remove the outermost layer.

Hulled barley is a whole grain, as the bran, endosperm, and germ remain intact. For food use, barley is often pearled. This involves removing both the hull and bran, leaving just the germ and endosperm layers (rx).

Although barley was historically an important food source in many parts of the world, it has been largely replaced by other grains, such as wheat and rice over the past 200 years (rx).

Today, barley is primarily used for animal feed or malted for use in alcoholic drinks like beer. However, a small amount of barley is used as a food source for humans as well (rx, rx).

Both hulled and pearled barley can be cooked, similar to rice, and are often used in soups and stews. They’re also found in breakfast cereals, porridge, and baby food (rx).

Barley can also be made into flour by milling the pearled grain. The flour is often used with other wheat-based products like bread, noodles, and baked goods to boost their nutritional profile (rx, rx).

Wheat is milled into flour so it can be used in baked goods like bread. Barley is primarily used as feed for livestock and in alcohol production, but it can also be cooked whole in a similar manner to rice or milled into flour.

Nutrient breakdown

The nutrient composition of barley and wheat differs depending on the amount of processing each grain has gone through.

Flour made from wheat usually contains just the endosperm component, while whole wheat flour contains all parts of the grain.

Barley used in cooking generally comes in the hulled form, with all parts of the grain intact. It may also come as pearled barley, where the bran has been removed.

Macronutrients

Here’s how 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of whole wheat flour, refined wheat flour, hulled barley, and pearled barley compare in their macronutrient content (rx,rx, rx):

	Whole wheat flour	Wheat flour	Hulled barley	Pearled barley
Calories	340	361	354	352
Carbs	72.0 grams	72.5 grams	73.4 grams	77.7 grams
Protein	13.2 grams	12 grams	12.5 grams	9.9 grams
Fat	2.5 grams	1.7 grams	2.3 grams	1.2 grams
Fiber	10.7 grams	2.4 grams	17.3 grams	15.6 grams

It’s clear that for calories, carbs, protein, and fats, wheat and barley are quite similar, even after undergoing processing, such as milling or de-hulling.

However, wheat loses significant amounts of fiber during milling, as the majority of the fiber is found in the bran layer of the grain. In whole wheat flour, the bran is added back into the final product, boosting the fiber content.

On the other hand, barley is very rich in dietary fiber, providing 60–70% of the 25 grams recommended by the American Heart Association (rx).

Because the fiber is spread throughout the grain, not just in the bran, even when the bran layer is removed in pearled barley, there’s still a significant amount of fiber left.

Minerals

Here’s how 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of whole wheat flour, refined wheat flour, hulled barley, and pearled barley compare in their mineral content (erx, rx, rx, rx):

	Whole wheat flour	Wheat flour	Hulled barley	Pearled barley
Manganese	177% of the Daily Value (DV)	34% of the DV	85% of the DV	58% of the DV
Copper	46% of the DV	20% of the DV	55% of the DV	47% of the DV
Zinc	24% of the DV	8% of the DV	25% of the DV	19% of the DV
Phosphorus	29% of the DV	8% of the DV	21% of the DV	18% of the DV
Iron	20% of the DV	5% of the DV	20% of the DV	14% of the DV
Magnesium	33% of the DV	6% of the DV	32% of the DV	19% of the DV
Potassium	8% of the DV	2% of the DV	10% of the DV	6% of the DV

Wheat and barley are rich in minerals. However, both lose significant amounts during processing, particularly in the milling of refined wheat flour. Iron is usually added back to milled wheat flour to match that of the whole grain product.

Wheat is particularly high in manganese, and whole-grain wheat flour and hulled barley have similar amounts of zinc, iron, magnesium, and potassium.

Nonetheless, both hulled and pearled barley are better sources of all minerals, compared with refined wheat flour.

Vitamins

Here’s how 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of whole wheat flour, refined wheat flour, hulled barley and pearled barley compare in their vitamin content (erx, rx, rx, rx):

	Whole wheat flour	Wheat flour	Hulled barley	Pearled barley
Thiamine	42% of the DV	7% of the DV	54% of the DV	16% of the DV
Niacin	31% of the DV	6% of the DV	29% of the DV	29% of the DV
Vitamin B6	24% of the DV	2% of the DV	19% of the DV	15% of the DV
Vitamin B5	12% of the DV	9% of the DV	6% of the DV	6% of the DV
Folate	11% of the DV	8% of the DV	5% of the DV	6% of the DV
Riboflavin	13% of the DV	5% of the DV	22% of the DV	9% of the DV
Vitamin E	5% of the DV	3% of the DV	4% of the DV	0% of the DV

Hulled barley is richer in thiamine and riboflavin than wheat. Conversely, wheat is slightly richer in niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin B5, folate, and vitamin E.

However, milling wheat to refined flour results in significant losses of all vitamins, and pearling barley results in a significant loss of thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamin E. Thiamine and riboflavin, as well as other B vitamins, are usually added back to refined flour after milling.

Wheat and barley are very nutrient rich. But wheat milled into refined flour loses a significant amount of fiber, minerals, and certain vitamins. Pearled barley also loses nutritional value. B vitamins are added back to refined flours before processing.

Health effects of wheat and barley

Barley and wheat share some common health effects, as well as some important differences, including how they affect conditions such as celiac disease, wheat allergy, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and metabolic syndrome

Celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity

People with an autoimmune condition known as celiac disease can’t tolerate proteins called gluten, as they damage the lining of the intestine, which can result in bloating, iron deficiency, constipation, diarrhea, weight loss, and even failure to thrive (rx).

Additionally, some people without celiac disease may experience symptoms like bloating, gas, and pain when eating foods that contain gluten (rx, 1rx, rx).

Barley and wheat both contain types of gluten proteins. Wheat contains glutenins and gliadins, while barley contains hordeins (rx).

Therefore, people who can’t tolerate gluten should avoid both wheat and barley.

Wheat allergy

Wheat allergy is an immune reaction to various proteins in wheat, some of which are shared by barley ( rx, rx).

Allergic reactions include mild symptoms, such as redness, itching, and diarrhea, as well as more severe symptoms, such as asthma and anaphylaxis (rx).

Although they share some similar proteins, many people with a wheat allergy aren’t allergic to barley. In fact, barley allergy is relatively rare and not well studied (rx, rx, rx).

However, if you do have a wheat allergy, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about potential reactions to barley (rx).

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Both barley and wheat contain types of sugars known as fructans and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) (23Trusted Source).

Fructans are chains of connected fructose sugars commonly found in fruits and vegetables. GOS are chains of galactose sugars.

Neither of these sugars is broken down during digestion, so they move through to the large intestine where naturally occurring bacteria ferment them, producing gas (rx, rx).

In most people, this doesn’t have any negative effects. Yet, people with IBS can experience bloating, stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation (rx, rx).

Therefore, if you experience IBS symptoms, it may be beneficial to limit the amount of wheat and barley you eat (rx).

Barley, cholesterol, and blood sugar

One big advantage of barley over wheat is that it contains high amounts of the fiber beta-glucan.

In fact, barley contains approximately 5–11% beta-glucan, compared with wheat, which contains about 1%. Pearled parley provides even more, as beta-glucan is particularly concentrated in the endosperm layer of the grain (rx, rx).

Beta-glucan has been found to help lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar control (rx, rx).

For example, a review of 34 studies found that including at least 4 grams of beta-glucan per day alongside 30–80 grams of carbs significantly reduced blood sugar levels (rx).

Moreover, a review of 58 studies found that 3.5 grams of beta-glucan per day significantly lowered LDL (bad) cholesterol, compared with controls (rx).

Therefore, barley may have some added benefits for health, compared with wheat.

Barley and wheat are unsuitable for people with gluten sensitivity. They may also cause problems for people with IBS. Still, many people with wheat allergy can tolerate barley. Barley may help improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Barley and wheat are both important domesticated crops belonging to the grass family.

Wheat is ground into flour before use in baked goods and other foods, while barley is mostly eaten in whole grain or pearled form.

Both contain gluten, making them unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

While both grains are nutritious, barley is richer in fiber and cholesterol-lowering beta-glucan and loses fewer nutrients during processing than wheat. However, important nutrients are added back to wheat flour that’s milled before using it to create pasta, cereals, and breads.

Best Weight Loss Drinks

When used alongside healthy lifestyle changes, certain beverages are more effective than others at promoting weight loss.

Beverages like green tea, coffee and high-protein drinks have been shown to boost metabolism, promote fullness and decrease hunger, all of which may encourage weight loss.

Here are eight drinks that are some of the best to include in your diet when trying to lose weight and get healthy.

1. Green Tea

Green tea is often associated with health, and for good reason.
Not only is it packed with beneficial antioxidants and other powerful nutrients, it’s also one of the most effective drinks for weight loss.
Drinking green tea has been shown to decrease body weight and body fat in several studies.
A review of 14 studies found that people who drank high-concentration green tea for 12 weeks lost an average of 0.44 to 7.7 pounds (0.2 to 3.5 kg) more than those who did not drink green tea (rx).
It should be noted that this benefit is linked to green tea preparations that contain high amounts of catechins, antioxidants that may increase fat burning and boost metabolism (rx).
Matcha is a type of green tea that contains a higher amount of catechins than loose leaf green tea, which makes it a good choice for weight loss (rx).
One study found that women who consumed 3 grams of matcha per day experienced greater fat burning during exercise compared to women who did not drink matcha (rx).
Plus, green tea contains caffeine, which can help promote weight loss by boosting energy levels and improving performance while exercising (rx, rx).
What’s more, people who drink green tea tend to have lower blood pressure and a lower risk of developing diseases such as heart disease, certain cancers, and diabetes (rx).

Drinking green tea may help you lose weight by boosting metabolism and encouraging fat loss.

2. Coffee

Coffee is used by people around the world to boost energy levels and lift the mood. This is because coffee contains caffeine, a substance that acts as a stimulant in the body and may benefit weight loss. Coffee can reduce energy intake and boost metabolism, which may help you lose weight.
One study in 33 overweight adults found that those who drank coffee containing 6 mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight consumed significantly fewer overall calories than those who drank less caffeine or no caffeine at all (rx).
Caffeine intake has also been shown to increase metabolism and promote fat burning in several other studies (rx, rx).
Coffee drinkers may have an easier time maintaining their weight loss over time, as well.

A study in over 2,600 people found that those who were successful in maintaining weight loss over time drank significantly more caffeinated beverages than a control group (rx). Caffeinated beverages like coffee may stimulate weight loss by increasing metabolism, decreasing calorie intake and stimulating fat burning.

3. Black Tea

Like green tea, black tea contains compounds that may stimulate weight loss. Black tea is a type of tea that has undergone more oxidation (exposure to air) than other types of teas, resulting in a stronger flavor and darker color.
Black tea is high in polyphenols, including a group of polyphenolic compounds called flavonoids. Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that may help reduce body weight.
Studies have shown that the polyphenols found in black tea promote weight loss by reducing calorie intake, stimulating fat breakdown, and boosting the growth of friendly gut bacteria (rx, erx).
A study in 111 people demonstrated that those who drank 3 cups of black tea daily for three months lost more weight and had greater reductions in waist circumference compared to a control group (rx).
Another study in 2,734 women found that those with higher intakes of flavonoid-rich foods and beverages like black tea had significantly lower body fat and belly fat than women who consumed less dietary flavonoids ( rx).

Black tea contains polyphenols, antioxidants that have been shown to reduce body weight. Studies show that drinking black tea may help reduce body fat and encourage weight loss.

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