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Hordeum Vulgare

Also known as: Barley, Hordeum vulgare

Overview

Hordeum vulgare, commonly known as barley, is a widely cultivated cereal grain utilized in supplement form primarily for its soluble fiber, β-glucans, and various antioxidant compounds. It is also valued for extracts derived from its sprouts or seeds. The main applications of barley in supplements include supporting metabolic health, particularly in regulating blood glucose and lipid profiles, and promoting gastrointestinal well-being. Historically, it has been employed in traditional herbal medicine for conditions such as anorexia and inflammation. Research on Hordeum vulgare is ongoing, with a growing body of evidence from preclinical studies, clinical trials, and systematic reviews supporting its diverse health benefits. Its rich nutritional profile, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, contributes to its therapeutic potential.

Benefits

Barley offers several evidence-based health benefits. Its β-glucans have been shown in a meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to significantly reduce systolic blood pressure and improve lipid profiles, thereby contributing to cardiovascular risk reduction. Clinical trials and animal studies indicate that barley extracts and β-glucans can improve blood glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for individuals with or at risk of type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, Hordeum vulgare is a common ingredient in traditional herbal medicine formulas that have demonstrated significant improvements in appetite and quality of life for cancer patients experiencing anorexia, as highlighted in a recent systematic review. Ethanolic extracts of barley have also exhibited antioxidant properties and protective effects against high salt diet-induced renal and cerebellar injury in hypertensive rat models, suggesting organ protection. While most benefits are supported by moderate to high-quality evidence, some findings, particularly from animal studies, require further human validation.

How it works

The health benefits of Hordeum vulgare are primarily attributed to its β-glucans and antioxidant compounds. β-Glucans, as soluble fibers, increase the viscosity of gut contents, which slows down glucose absorption and modulates lipid metabolism. This mechanism contributes to improved glycemic control and cholesterol reduction. The antioxidant effects of barley are due to its phenolic compounds, which scavenge free radicals and exert anti-inflammatory actions. At a molecular level, barley extracts can modulate glucose metabolism through pathways such as PI3K/Akt/GSK3β signaling. Additionally, certain components may influence gastrointestinal motility and hormone levels related to appetite, explaining its traditional use in improving anorexia. While β-glucans are not absorbed, their local action in the gut is crucial for their effects.

Side effects

Hordeum vulgare is generally considered safe for consumption, with a favorable safety profile. The most commonly reported side effect in human trials is mild pruritus (itching), which occurred in approximately 10% of participants in one study but resolved spontaneously without requiring treatment. No serious adverse events have been reported in controlled clinical trials. There are no significant drug interactions documented in the reviewed literature. However, individuals with a known barley allergy or gluten sensitivity should avoid barley supplements, as barley contains gluten. While it has been used with reported benefits in cancer cachexia, its safety in specific populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, or individuals with severe hepatic or renal impairment, has not been well-established and warrants caution. Overall, side effects are typically mild and transient.

Dosage

The effective dosage of Hordeum vulgare varies depending on the specific form and intended use. For metabolic benefits, particularly related to β-glucans, clinical trials commonly investigate doses ranging from 3 to 6 grams per day. However, an optimal standardized dosage has not been definitively established and can depend on whether whole grain barley, β-glucan supplements, or specific ethanolic extracts are used. There is no clearly defined maximum safe dose, but barley is generally well tolerated at the studied dosages. It is typically recommended to consume barley supplements with meals to optimize their effects on glycemic control and lipid metabolism. The bioavailability and efficacy of soluble fiber components are also influenced by gut microbiota activity and the overall composition of the meal.

FAQs

Is barley gluten-free?

No, barley contains gluten and is therefore not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

How quickly can I expect to see benefits from barley supplements?

Metabolic improvements, such as better blood glucose or lipid levels, may be observed within a few weeks of consistent use. Effects on appetite in conditions like cachexia may vary.

Can barley supplements replace my prescribed medications?

No, barley supplements are intended as adjuncts to support health and should not be used as replacements for prescribed medications or standard medical therapies.

Are there any allergy concerns with barley?

Yes, individuals with a known barley allergy or gluten intolerance should avoid barley and barley-derived supplements due to potential allergic reactions.

Research Sources

  • https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2023.1203137/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Park et al. (2023) investigated traditional herbal medicine, often containing Hordeum vulgare, for anorexia in cancer patients. The study found significant improvements in appetite and quality of life, along with reduced adverse events, supporting barley's role in supportive cancer care. Limitations included heterogeneity in herbal formulas and cancer types across studies.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4458530/ – Byun et al. (2015) conducted a double-blind randomized controlled trial with 66 participants to assess the effect of barley sprout extract on lipid profiles. The study did not find a significant lipid-lowering effect, possibly due to low dosage and short duration, but reported mild pruritus as the main side effect, which resolved spontaneously.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10504167/ – Ahmed-Farid et al. (2023) performed a preclinical study using an animal model of high salt diet-induced hypertension. Their findings indicated that barley ethanolic extract reduced serum urea and creatinine levels, suggesting a protective effect on renal function. The study's limitation was its small sample size (n=8 rats per group) and the need for human validation.
  • https://jddtonline.info/index.php/jddt/article/download/6793/6339 – This meta-analysis, referenced as a source for a systematic review, included 28 randomized controlled trials. It concluded that barley β-glucans significantly lower systolic blood pressure and improve glycemic control. The clinical trials included were noted for their adequate sample sizes and controls, providing strong evidence for the cardiovascular and metabolic benefits of barley β-glucans.

Supplements Containing Hordeum Vulgare

Ultimate Alkalinize by Beachbody Ultimate
73

Ultimate Alkalinize

Beachbody Ultimate

Score: 73/100
Arnold Iron Pack by Arnold Schwarzenegger Series
70

Arnold Iron Pack

Arnold Schwarzenegger Series

Score: 70/100
MultiGreens by Young Living Essential Oils
70

MultiGreens

Young Living Essential Oils

Score: 70/100
Prophecy Ultimate Pre-Workout Peach Mango by ANS Performance
73

Prophecy Ultimate Pre-Workout Peach Mango

ANS Performance

Score: 73/100
Athletic Greens Ultimate Daily by Athletic Greens
80

Athletic Greens Ultimate Daily

Athletic Greens

Score: 80/100
Ritual Peach Mango Twist by ANS Performance
70

Ritual Peach Mango Twist

ANS Performance

Score: 70/100
Mai Ya Alcohol Free by Hawaii Pharm
45

Mai Ya Alcohol Free

Hawaii Pharm

Score: 45/100
Mai Ya by Hawaii Pharm
48

Mai Ya

Hawaii Pharm

Score: 48/100
Bao He Teapills by Plum Flower
55

Bao He Teapills

Plum Flower

Score: 55/100