Frequently Asked Questions
WHEATGRASS JUICE
What is wheatgrass juice?
Wheatgrass is a plant that is grown from the red winter wheatberry seed. The fresh-squeezed juice of the grass produces high concentrations of chlorophyll, active enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It is true that 1oz. of wheatgrass juice has the nutritional equivalent of 2-1/2lbs. of green, leafy vegetables. It is one of the richest natural sources of vitamins A, B complex, B-17, C, E, & K. Additionally, it is an excellent source of calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, sulfur, cobalt, zinc, as well as 17 forms of amino acids and enzymes.
Why is Chlorophyll important?
Chlorophyll, which makes up over 70% of the solid content of wheatgrass juice, is the basis of all plant life and closely resembles the molecular structure of human red blood cells. Chlorophyll is the first product of light, containing more light energy than any other element. It can be extracted from any plant, but wheatgrass is superior because it has been found to have over 100 elements needed by the human body.
Why are enzymes important for good health?
Enzymes play an important role in many bodily functions including vision, thought, reproduction, breathing, and digestion, just to mention a few. The enzymes found in wheatgrass have been found to supplement the indigenous enzymes manufactured in the human body. Also, preliminary studies have identified a number of substances in wheatgrass juice that are formidable anti-cancer agents.
Are there any potential side effects when first beginning to drink wheatgrass juice?
Wheatgrass juice is a powerful cleanser, because chlorophyll release toxins into the bloodstream that have been stored in cells and fatty tissues, you may experience nausea. It is best to start with one ounce of juice each day. Every person has an individual tolerance to the potency of wheatgrass juice. Once you have established your personal comfort zone feel free to drink 2 to 4 ounces as a daily supplement or as much as 6 ounces three times a day for chronic illness. For best results, wheatgrass juice should be consumed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. However, it is better to drink wheatgrass juice under any condition then to not drink it at all.
Can any juicer be used to juice wheatgrass?
Your juicer must be specifically designed to handle wheatgrass (i.e. the juicer mentions it as one of its specialities). This is because the fibers are so fine that masticating grinders are required to extract the juice from the blades of grass. Unequipped juicers processing wheatgrass can be damaged or simply not produce the amount of juice you otherwise could from a proper machine. There are manual and electric juicers available online.
Are there any juicer brands you recommend?
Pure Intentions primarily uses the Greenstar electric juicer brand for juicing wheatgrass, but has also used Samson products. If you're looking for a manual juicer, search for a stainless steel model that would be a Good4U (discontinued) equivalent. Note: Some juicers are made only for juicing wheatgrass and may prove inefficient for juicing other vegetables or fruits.
LIVE PLANT CARE AND OTHER INSTRUCTIONS
How do I care for my live wheatgrass plant?
Your container of wheatgrass is just like a houseplant. It needs water, sunlight, and a little TLC in order to thrive. To extend the life of your wheatgrass you should keep it out of extreme heat or cold. However, keeping it refrigerated will help control the growth. Watering the plant should be done from the bottom in a shallow bowl (for Pet Grass quarts), or in a sink or tub (for full-grown trays) with just enough water to feed the roots. You should check it after and keep it moist. If the grass starts to get too long, you can cut it back and save what you cut in a zip-lock plastic bag in the refrigerator for future use. It is possible to get a second growth out of your live plant, but do keep in mind that the initial growth is where most of the benefits and nutrients of the wheatgrass will occur.
How do I feed the wheatgrass to my pet?
Animals instinctively eat grass to obtain the vitamins and minerals provided. Most pets will naturally take to the grass in their own time after you present the live plant (Pet Grass quart). If you try to feed your animal wheatgrass and they seem a bit indifferent, try chopping it up and mixing it in with their food. If wheatgrass is new to your pet, it is recommended that you feed them small amounts at first in order for them to acclimate to a change in their diet. For finicky animals, try spritzing the plant with water. In licking the water off the blades of grass, they might just discover it's a treat.
