Barley Grass (Hordeum vulgare)

Barley Grass (Hordeum vulgare)

Botanical Classification

  • Common Name: Barley Grass
  • Scientific Name: Hordeum vulgare
  • Family: Poaceae (Grass family)
  • Parts Used: Young grass (before seed formation), powder, juice, dried leaf

Constituents

Barley grass is nutrient-dense and contains:

  • Vitamins: A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K
  • Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, zinc, manganese, phosphorus
  • Enzymes: Superoxide dismutase (antioxidant)
  • Amino Acids: Essential and non-essential amino acids
  • Chlorophyll: High levels for detoxification
  • Antioxidants: Flavonoids, polyphenols

Uses for Equines

Benefits for Horses
  • Digestive Health: Supports gut flora and can be beneficial for horses prone to gastric ulcers or colic.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Can help laminitic or arthritic horses due to its alkalizing properties.
  • Nutrient Boost: Excellent for underweight, recovering, or senior horses.
  • Detoxifying: High chlorophyll levels help support liver and kidney function.
How to Use in Horses
  • Dried Powder: mixed into feed
  • Fresh Barley Grass: Grazing or chopped into feed
  • Juice (Hydration Support): in water or feed
⚠ Cautions for Horses
  • Not for Insulin-Resistant Horses: Barley grass can be high in natural sugars, which may not be suitable for metabolic horses.

Uses for Canines

Benefits for Dogs
  • Skin & Coat Health: Improves dry, itchy, or dull coats.
  • Digestive Aid: Helps with gut inflammation and stool regularity.
  • Immune Support: High in antioxidants and can help detox the liver.
  • Joint Health: Contains anti-inflammatory properties useful for arthritic dogs.
How to Use in Dogs
  • Powder: in food (based on size)
  • Juice: mixed with water
  • Fresh Chopped Grass: Small amounts in food
⚠ Cautions for Dogs
  • Introduce Slowly: Can cause loose stools if given in excess.
  • Check for Allergies: Some dogs may react to grasses.

Traditional & Folklore Uses (UK & Isle of Man)

  • Ancient Celtic & Norse Traditions: Barley was a sacred crop, often used in offerings, fertility rites, and seasonal festivals like Samhain and Beltane.
  • Healing Lore: In the Isle of Man, barley infusions were used in digestive tonics and thought to ward off illness.
  • Protection & Fertility Symbol: Barley fields were sometimes walked through for blessings to ensure good harvests and health for livestock.

Summary

Barley grass is a powerful nutrient-dense herb with alkalizing, anti-inflammatory, and digestive benefits for both equines and canines. Traditionally used in the UK and Isle of Man for health, fertility, and protection, it remains a valuable botanical for modern herbal practice.

Detox

Digestion

Inflamation

Wellbeing

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