THE WONDER OF WHEATGRASS

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WHEATGRASS JUICE

Probably the easiest way to enjoy the benefits of wheatgrass is by drinking its juice. The solid matter contained in wheatgrass juice is approximately 70% chlorophyll, a substance that has been called "nature's great healer". And when the juice is taken internally, the chlorophyll is rapidly assimilated into the bloodstream, because the liquid's chemical composition resembles that of hemoglobin. For that reason, the "crude" chlorophyll enters red blood cells quickly . . . where it's said to heal tissues, purify the liver, improve blood sugar, and generally help flush out ingested toxins from within the body.

In action, chlorophyll seems to produce an unfavorable environment for bacterial growth in the body, rather than having any direct effect upon the bacteria themselves. Its fans claim that as a result of this quality, the compound neutralizes body odors, freshens breath, prevents infection in cuts and burns, aids digestion, and even seems to offer some protection against radiation. Indeed, considerable evidence indicates that a chlorophyll-rich diet affects the survival rate of laboratory animals receiving high doses of radiation. In one such experiment, every animal that did not receive fresh greens died within 10 to 15 days, while only half of the greens eaters failed to survive the same period.

It's speculated, then, that wheatgrass juice — taken on a daily basis — might even slow down the harmful effects of X-rays, and it's been claimed that wheatgrass plants kept in front of a color television set will actually absorb part of the radiation that the tube emits, as well as some pollutants and odors from the indoor air.

Wheatgrass juice is said to be helpful when used externally as well as when taken internally. Some claim that an enema of fresh wheatgrass juice cleans out the bowel and eliminates constipation, and the liquid is also used as a douche to clear up vaginal infections. If you're plagued by dandruff, you might want to try rubbing the juice into your scalp, then rinsing and shampooing as usual. Even skin disorders such as eczema and psoriasis are said to be helped by the juice's healing chlorophyll. And don't forget to give your four-legged household companions a share in the crop. Adding a few blades of wheatgrass to your pets' drinking water will help keep them healthy, too.

HOW TO GROW WHEATGRASS . . .

For best results purchase hard, red winter wheat berries from a health food store or organic foods co-op. Then soak the seeds in lukewarm water overnight.

Wheatgrass can be grown in almost any shallow container. The staff at the Hippocrates Health Institute uses discarded biscuit trays from a bakery supply house, but wooden or plastic seedling flats also work well.

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