Worldwide, wheatgrass is becoming more accepted as researchers continue to uncover more of its health benefits. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the deep green, younger form of the wheatgrass plant was popularized for consumption.

According to New York University’s Langone Medical Center, the woman who started it all was Ann Wigmore, a Lithuanian holistic health practitioner, and nutritionist who suffered from ulcerative colitis. In her desperation to treat her illness, she tried wheatgrass. Ann claimed wheatgrass cured her of her disease and, she gave it to her neighbors who also began to show improved health. In this, Ann became an overnight sensation and a major figure in the natural health movement.

A 2002 study, published in the Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology additionally suggested that wheatgrass might be effective in the treatment of ulcerative colitis, further substantiating Ann's claims. The preliminary study also revealed that treatment with wheatgrass resulted in a reduction in overall disease activity.

What we now know is that it certainly is a healthy source of nutrients. Many people who use wheatgrass say it helps to improve their existing ailments or gives an overall feeling of well-being.

In his review on wheatgrass on behalf of the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Brent Bauer reports that people who use it testify that wheatgrass: boosts immunity, eases joint pain, alleviates skin problems, and is a good source of fiber, relieving constipation.