What Are the Dangers of Wheatgrass?

Allergic Reaction

The most serious danger associated with wheatgrass is an allergic reaction, which can result in swelling of the throat or face and hives. A wheatgrass allergy can be serious; medical attention is important if these symptoms occur. Repeated ingestion of wheatgrass may result in more severe reactions each time. Individuals with wheat allergies should avoid wheatgrass. However, wheatgrass may actually be beneficial for reducing allergic reactions to other substances.

A common complaint of those drinking wheatgrass juice is headaches. The reason for headaches associated with ingesting wheatgrass is debated, but it is likely part of the detoxification process that wheatgrass promotes. Another possible cause is mold or bacteria residing on the plants, although City Farmer, Canada's Office of Urban Agriculture, disputes this theory. City Farmer claims that although mold is common on wheatgrass, it has no ill health effects. Additionally, any mold present is easy to rinse off before use.

Some people experience nausea after ingesting wheatgrass. This side effect may be a detoxification symptom that will pass with time as the body cleanses and becomes accustomed to wheatgrass. In some cases, nausea is a result of taking wheatgrass with other foods. Wheatgrass does not combine well with many foods, so to avoid nausea take it between meals. Avoid eating for an hour after drinking wheatgrass juice to give it enough time to assimilate.

Although there is no scientific proof of its ability to heal through detoxifying the body, wheatgrass is widely used for this purpose. Most of the side effects reported are also detoxification symptoms. Headache and nausea are two of these; other symptoms include fatigue, muscle ache and diarrhea. Symptoms from wheatgrass usually subside within a day or two and give way to feelings of well-being. To reduce severity of symptoms, start slowly with half an ounce or less at a time and never take more than 3 oz. of juice at a time.