Barley tea is a soothing beverage, popular in South Korea (boicha), Japan (mugicha) and China (damai chai). This drink can be consumed hot or cold, is caffeine-free, has no sugar, and is rich in antioxidants. It also contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, riboflavin, thiamin, potassium, magnesium, manganese, calcium, iron, selenium, melatonin, and amino acids.
Barley is a whole grain with a low glycemic index that helps maintain normal blood sugar levels. It is rich in fiber, which promotes gastrointestinal health and is helpful for those suffering from constipation or diarrhea. It is also an excellent source of protein, which helps build muscles and burn fat.
According to a study, drinking roasted barley tea can improve cardiovascular health by decreasing total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol. This is because roasted barley contains a flavonoid called alkylpyrazine, which aids in the proper functioning of the heart and circulatory system. Moreover, roasted barley has been found to reduce inflammation and triglycerides and increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
Aside from improving heart health, roasted barley tea can also help prevent diabetes. Studies show that regular consumption of this drink may slow down the onset of Type 2 diabetes, because it has a moderate effect on blood glucose. In addition, it has been shown to lower glycemic index values in diabetic patients, as well as decrease the concentrations of advanced glycosylation end-products (AGEs), which can lead to oxidative stress and muscle damage.
One of the best ways to get all of the benefits of this beverage is to make your own roasted barley tea at home. To do this, you will need roasted barley grains and filtered water. You can purchase roasted barley online or at Asian grocery stores. You can also find teabags containing roasted barley, which is an easy and convenient option.
Once the water has come to a boil, add the roasted barley grains and allow it to simmer for five to six minutes. You can experiment with the amount of roasted barley grains that you use to achieve the flavor that is right for you. For a stronger flavor, add more roasted barley grains; for a lighter flavor, use less.
After the brew has cooled slightly, strain it through a coffee filter or piece of cheesecloth. Enjoy the tea while it is still warm, or cool it and place it in the refrigerator for chilled barley tea. It can be served with or without added sugar or honey.
In addition to being a delicious drink, roasted barley tea can be used for numerous medicinal purposes, such as treating skin conditions, stimulating male fertility, relieving constipation, and preventing peptic ulcers. It is also known to boost the immune system, fight infections, aid digestion, and help with weight loss. It is recommended that you drink a cup of this beverage at least once per day. It is also good for pregnant women, as it does not contain any chemicals that could be harmful to the unborn baby.