Tonic Drinks & Waters
Wheatgrass Powder Blended with Green Pepper and Apple Juice
traditionally associated with blood alkalising, digestive support and antioxidant nourishment
Why people make this drink
Wheatgrass has attracted genuine scientific interest over the past few decades. Research suggests it is exceptionally nutrient-dense — rich in active minerals, proteins, vitamins and trace elements. Its molecular structure is notably similar to haemoglobin (human blood), which is one reason it has been studied for blood-related applications. Modern records point to benefits including antioxidant activity and gut support. Bro Niu first tried it years ago when a friend recommended wheatgrass tablets for constipation and detox — and found the effect on digestion was real. Coming across wheatgrass powder at a health food shop later, he experimented with blending it into freshly juiced vegetables and fruit. The result: a quick daily drink that is pleasant to drink and practical to prepare.
Wheatgrass has a mild alkalising effect on the body and is particularly worth considering for people whose diets run heavy on meat and processed food, which tend to push the body towards acidity. It is also noted to support digestion and benefit those prone to constipation or loose stools.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- People who eat a lot of meat, have poor digestion, feel sluggish or tend toward constipation or loose stools
- Those who want simple everyday nutritional support rather than a herbal formula
- People with a cold or yin-deficient constitution who find “cooling” foods uncomfortable: Bro Niu suggests blending the powder with ginger water (cool to warm, not hot) to help balance the mild cool nature of wheatgrass
- Do not use water above 40°C to mix the powder — heat destroys the active enzymes
- Wheatgrass and spirulina powder should be taken on alternating days rather than together
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Wheatgrass powder: Nutritionally dense green powder associated with blood alkalising, liver and blood detoxification, cell regeneration and antioxidant support. Mild in flavour when blended with fruit juice.
- Green bell pepper: A good source of vitamin C; its mild pungency adds flavour and antioxidant value.
- Apple: Provides natural sweetness and fibre, making the drink more palatable. Also associated with gut health in traditional thinking.
Ingredients (1 glass)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Organic wheatgrass powder | 1–2 tsp | Use organic if possible |
| Green bell pepper | 1 medium | Juiced |
| Apple | 1 medium | Juiced |
Method
- Wash the green bell pepper and apple.
- Juice the green pepper and apple using a juicer.
- Pour the fresh juice into a glass.
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of wheatgrass powder.
- Stir well until fully dissolved.
- Drink immediately — ideally on an empty stomach, at least 15 minutes before a meal.
Bro Niu’s tips
- Do not use hot water or very warm juice to mix the wheatgrass powder — the active enzymes are destroyed above about 40°C. Use room-temperature or slightly cool liquid.
- For those with a cold or yin-deficient constitution who are concerned about the mild cool nature of wheatgrass: try stirring it into ginger water that has been allowed to cool to a comfortable temperature. Bro Niu thinks this is a reasonable approach to balance the cooling effect.
- Wheatgrass powder and spirulina powder both have great nutritional value, but take them on alternate days rather than together for best results.
- Best time to drink: 15 minutes before a meal, during the daytime (not last thing at night).
- Organic wheatgrass powder is available at health food stores and some specialty shops.
Community questions answered (selected)
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Q (Kwan): I have a yin-deficient constitution and try to avoid cooling foods. Can I mix the wheatgrass powder with ginger water first, to balance out the coolness? Bro Niu: I think mixing it with ginger water is a good idea — it should help counteract the mild cool nature of wheatgrass.
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Q (Do): Which is better — wheatgrass powder or spirulina powder? Or should I take both together? Bro Niu: Both are excellent, but take them separately — for example, wheatgrass on one day, spirulina the next. That is more effective than mixing them.
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Q (Dada): What is the best time of day to drink this? Bro Niu: Best taken 15 minutes before a meal, and during the daytime is better.
Published May 26, 2013 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.