(also referred to as...)
Defatted Wheat Germ, Toasted Wheat Germ, Untoasted Wheat Germ, Wheat Germ Oil
Description
Wheat germ is harvested from the embryo of the wheat berry. It contains eighteen amino acids, vitamins B1, B2, and B3, E, calcium, iron, phosphorus, and other trace minerals, and is a good source of protein and dietary fibre.
Available in toasted and untoasted forms, wheat germ is low in sodium and easily digested. The toasted form has a longer shelf life, but some sources suggest the less processed untoasted form is more wholesome. "Raw form" wheat germ should be purchased in a refrigerated or vacuum pack, as it can go rancid quickly. Defatted wheat germ contains less than 1% fat.
Wheat germ oil is the fatty liquid extracted from wheat germ. The oil is high in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and long-chain waxy alcohols.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
Wheat germ promotes regular bowel movements and can be used to complement other protein sources.
Wheat germ oil can be used to improve strength, endurance, and other aspects of physical performance due to its octacosanol content (a long-chain waxy alcohol). Octacosanol may also affect fat metabolism, cholesterol production, and blood platelet "stickiness" and improve cardiovascular function due to its linoleic and linolenic acid content. Diets deficient in green leafy vegetables, nuts, or other sources of vitamin E may benefit from wheat germ oil supplementation.
Topical applications of wheat germ oil soothes burns and sores and can alleviate various skin conditions.
Wheat germ oil is used in Japan as part of an oral antioxidant to improve male infertility and treat cataracts complicated by atopic dermatitis.
Source
Embryo of the wheat berry.
Optimal Absorption
Wheat germ can be sprinkled over cereal and used in baking and cooking recipes.
Wheat germ oil is available in liquid or capsule form. If using liquid, take 1 teaspoon daily. If using capsules, take 350 - 1500mg daily.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Wheat germ and wheat germ oil are considered safe and non-toxic. If supplementing your diet with wheat germ, be sure to keep well hydrated.
Wheat germ oil will turn rancid very quickly if improperly stored. Keep in a cool, dark, dry place
Ailment / Situation Listing
| Burns | Cataracts Complicated By Atopic Dermatitis | Constipation |
| Impaired Cardiovascular Function | Improves Strength and Endurance | Male Infertility |
| Protein Enrichment | Skin Problems | Sores |
| Vitamin E Deficiency | | |
All information contained on this website is for reference purposes only and all content should be treated as a resource. It is highly recommended that you consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner when undertaking self-treatment. For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information contained on this website. However, errors in copy may occur. You are advised to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner
when applying the information contained on this website.
The MBR Team is not responsible or liable for any personal injury or related effects from applying the information contained on this website.
By browsing / printing any and all My Best Remedies articles / pages, you agree to the statements above.
