What Are Job's Tears?
Job's tears, known botanically as Coix lacryma-jobi, is a gluten-free cereal grain from a grass species native to Southeast Asia. Often called coix seed, Chinese pearl barley, or hato mugi, it's widely used in cooking and traditional Asian medicine. The edible variety has a soft hull, while another hard-shelled variety is used for ornamental purposes. The hulled seeds are plump, with a tender yet chewy texture similar to hominy, and a subtle, earthy, and nutty flavor.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
Job's tears is a nutritionally dense food, offering a wide array of macronutrients, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds. Per 100 grams, the seeds contain a substantial amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.
- High Protein Content: Providing more protein than brown rice, Job's tears contains a profile of essential amino acids that are easily absorbed by the body.
- Rich in Fiber: Its high dietary fiber content aids in promoting intestinal peristalsis and enhancing satiety, which is beneficial for digestive health and weight management.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The grain is a good source of B vitamins (including thiamine and niacin), vitamin E, and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and potassium.
Benefits for Radiant Skin
One of the most well-known benefits of Job's tears is its positive effect on skin health, a use long appreciated in traditional medicine and now supported by modern skincare science.
- Brightens and Evens Skin Tone: The seed extract is known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation, combat dark spots, and create a more radiant, even complexion.
- Moisturizes and Hydrates: Bioactive compounds help deeply moisturize and hydrate the skin, restoring softness and elasticity and strengthening the skin barrier.
- Combats Acne and Inflammation: Traditional remedies and modern uses highlight its anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness, soothe skin irritation, and control acne breakouts.
Digestive and Spleen Health
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Job's tears is revered for its ability to strengthen the spleen and drain excess 'dampness' from the body, which is believed to be the root cause of many digestive issues. This traditional wisdom aligns with modern understanding of the grain's high fiber content, which supports overall gastrointestinal health. It has traditionally been used to address conditions such as edema, bloating, loose stools, and poor appetite.
Powerful Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Job's tears contains numerous bioactive compounds, including coixenolide, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds, which possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Antioxidant Activity: Phenolic compounds and flavonoids help combat free radicals, which can trigger premature aging and cellular damage.
- Reduces Inflammation: The essential fatty acids found in the seeds, such as linoleic and palmitic acid, are responsible for its anti-inflammatory effects, making it useful for skin and other inflammatory conditions.
Potential Anti-cancer Effects
Research, primarily conducted in animal models and in vitro, suggests that Job's tears extracts, and specifically a neutral lipid extract called Kanglaite, have anti-tumor properties. Some studies show potential for inhibiting cancer cell growth and promoting apoptosis in various cancers, including lung, breast, and liver cancer. However, it is crucial to note that this research is preliminary, and further human clinical trials are necessary to confirm these effects. For more on the anti-tumor research, see this review on the anti-tumor effect of coix seed.
How to Incorporate Job's Tears into Your Diet
Job's tears are incredibly versatile and can be cooked similarly to other grains like rice or barley. A simple cooking method involves rinsing the seeds and simmering them in water for about 45 to 55 minutes until tender and chewy.
- Grains and Sides: Use cooked Job's tears as a hearty side dish, in grain bowls, or as a replacement for rice.
- Soups and Stews: Its ability to thicken broth and its chewy texture make it an excellent addition to soups and stews.
- Porridges and Drinks: In many Asian countries, it's used to make sweet dessert soups or ground into a powder for creamy, nourishing teas.
- Skin Treatments: The ground powder can be mixed with water to create a moisturizing and brightening face mask.
Job's Tears vs. Barley: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Job's Tears (Coix lacryma-jobi) | Barley (Hordeum vulgare) |
|---|---|---|
| Botanical Family | Poaceae | Poaceae |
| Gluten Content | Generally gluten-free (the edible variety) | Contains gluten |
| Texture (Cooked) | Tender and chewy, similar to hominy | Chewy and soft, with a distinct grain flavor |
| Traditional Use | Used in TCM for 'dampness' and skin clarity | Common staple grain in many Western cultures |
| Nutritional Profile | Higher in certain minerals like calcium, and protein compared to brown rice | Excellent source of fiber, manganese, and selenium |
Precautions and Side Effects
While generally safe in food amounts, some precautions are advised when consuming Job's tears.
- Pregnancy: It is considered potentially unsafe for pregnant women due to the risk of inducing uterine contractions.
- Diabetes Medication: Because it may lower blood sugar, individuals on diabetes medication should monitor their levels closely and consult a doctor.
- Allergies: Individuals with allergies to coix seed should avoid it.
- Sensitive Digestion: The high fiber content may cause bloating or discomfort in some individuals, particularly in large quantities.
Conclusion
Job's tears is a nutrient-rich and versatile grain with a long history of use in traditional medicine, offering an array of health benefits for digestion, skin health, and general wellness. Its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties, while promising, require further human research. For most, incorporating this gluten-free grain into a balanced diet can be a great way to boost nutritional intake. However, it's essential to be mindful of the necessary precautions, especially concerning pregnancy and blood sugar management. By embracing this ancient food with care, you can harness its subtle yet powerful health advantages.
