Abstract
- Background
Plants have been utilized by humans throughout history for a variety of purposes, including sustenance and medicinal intentions. Since ancient times, wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum) has been utilized as a valuable microgreen for therapeutic purposes. Rich in phenolic flavonoids, vitamins, minerals, proteins, and active enzymes, wheatgrass possesses a robust biochemical composition that enhances its therapeutic efficacy and establishes it as a powerful antioxidant agent for managing a range of diseases. While it demonstrates a wide variety of pharmacological potentials—including antioxidative capabilities that neutralize free radicals, alongside anti-cancer, anti-ulcer, anti-diabetic, anti-arthritic, and antimicrobial actions—there remains a notable dearth of conclusive clinical evidence to fully substantiate these effects. Consequently, in-depth research and comprehensive literature evaluations are essential to elucidate its pharmacological properties and confirm its clinical utility for human welfare.
- Methods
A comprehensive review of the existing literature was conducted to synthesize current scientific understanding regarding the botanical characteristics, bioactive composition, pharmacological potentials, and traditional therapeutic applications of wheatgrass microgreens. Relevant data concerning its phytochemical constituents, antioxidant properties, and reported disease-modifying activities were systematically examined and analyzed.
- Results
Evaluated literature indicates that wheatgrass is exceptionally abundant in vital micronutrients, dietary enzymes, and polyphenolic compounds that drive its potent biological activities. Preclinical observations support its broad-spectrum pharmacological profile, highlighting significant capacities in neutralizing oxidative stress, mitigating inflammatory and arthritic responses, suppressing cancerous cell proliferation, protecting against gastric ulceration, and exerting antimicrobial effects. However, the analysis also underscores the existing gaps in rigorous clinical data, emphasizing the critical need for further standardized human studies to validate its therapeutic claims.
- Conclusions
Wheatgrass represents a traditionally valued and biochemically rich microgreen with extensive pharmacological potential, particularly as a natural antioxidant and adjunct therapeutic agent. Nonetheless, future targeted clinical investigations are warranted to firmly establish its evidence-based medical value and optimize its integration into modern healthcare regimens.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772566924000375