Asian Journal of Advances in Research

Wheatgrass, the young grass of the common wheat plant, has gained significant recognition as a "superfood" and a vital component in traditional and modern medicine. Often referred to as "green blood" due to the high concentration and structural similarity of its chlorophyll to human haemoglobin, wheatgrass is a nutritional powerhouse. This review systematically analyses its rich phytochemical and nutritional composition, including chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and amino acids, and evaluates the contemporary scientific evidence supporting its purported therapeutic applications. Research indicates promising pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and cardioprotective effects (Tamraz et al., 2024). While small-scale clinical trials and in-vitro/in-vivo studies suggest potential benefits in managing chronic conditions like thalassemia, ulcerative colitis, and various metabolic disorders where clinical trials are necessary to validate these claims and establish standardised clinical recommendations. Wheatgrass—young shoots of Triticum aestivum—has gained attention as a nutrient-dense microgreen and nutraceutical. It contains concentrated vitamins, minerals, chlorophyll, amino acids, and a variety of phytochemicals (phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids). In vitro, animal, and limited human studies indicate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hematopoietic and possible adjunctive anticancer effects, while cultivation and processing strongly influence its composition. This review summarises current evidence on composition, mechanisms of action, clinical data and safety, highlights major knowledge gaps, and suggests directions for future research.