Wheat grass is used to help reduce cholesterol, anemia, cancer, high blood pressure and ulcerative colitis, according to RxList.com. The herbal supplement is also known for containing high levels of antioxidants and for its anti-inflammatory properties. Wheat grass is administered in a pill supplement or by juicing. You should not take wheat grass for more than one month at a time, and its effectiveness for treating or preventing any medical condition has not been evaluated by the FDA. As with any supplement, consult with your doctor before using wheat grass, as allergies to it are common.
Wheat Grass Allergy
If you consume wheat grass in pill form or by drinking its juice, you may develop various symptoms that could be related to an allergic reaction. Some symptoms, such as nausea, constipation and loss of appetite, may be related to common side effects. If you are allergic to wheat grass, you will develop symptoms in different parts of your body within a few moments of consuming the supplement. This is caused by increased production of certain chemicals that fight off the suspected allergen.
Symptoms
Symptoms from an allergic reaction will affect your digestive system, skin, respiratory system and circulatory system. Diarrhea, nausea, cramping, abdominal pain, vomiting, bloating and gas are common symptoms of a food-related allergy. Your skin can become inflamed and break out into an allergic rash, such as eczema or hives. Your lungs and sinuses can become swollen, leading to congestion, shortness of breathe and wheezing. The circulatory system symptoms include lightheadedness, dizziness and mental confusion.
Pollen Consideration
If you’re allergic to grass pollen, you should not use wheat grass supplements. Grass pollen is a common pollen that causes allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Pollen allergies will primarily cause symptoms to develop in the eyes, throat and nasal passages. Pollen allergy symptoms include: runny nose, postnasal drip, watery eyes, red eyes, itchy eyes, a scratchy throat, nasal congestion and sneezing. Stop using wheat grass if you develop these symptoms after taking the supplement.
Warning
In rare cases, an allergic reaction may cause a severe reaction called anaphylaxis. Any time you take a new supplement, even if it’s natural, you need to discuss it first with your doctor. If you notice that your lips, face or tongue are swollen, you develop hives and you cannot breathe normally, you need to call 911 for emergency attention. A severe allergic reaction can lead to death if not treated promptly.
