Is Barley Good for Jaundice? Examining the Benefits and Risks

November 14, 2025 •

4 min read

According to traditional medicinal practices and emerging research, barley has long been considered a supportive remedy for various liver conditions. Consuming well-boiled barley or barley water may aid in managing jaundice by promoting the body's natural detoxification processes.

Quick Summary

Barley is a traditionally used supportive dietary aid for jaundice due to its diuretic and antioxidant properties that help promote detoxification and liver function. It is not a cure and should only be used as a complementary therapy under medical supervision.

Key Points

Supportive Remedy: Barley is traditionally used as a complementary remedy to support liver function during jaundice, not as a standalone cure.
Diuretic Properties: Consuming well-boiled barley or barley water can act as a natural diuretic, helping to flush out waste and toxins.
Rich in Antioxidants: The phenolic compounds and tocols in barley help protect liver cells from oxidative stress and damage.
Crucial Hydration: Barley water is excellent for maintaining hydration, which is essential for liver and kidney function during recovery.
Must-Consult Doctor: It is critical to seek professional medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment of jaundice, as home remedies are only supportive.
Easily Digestible: In its liquid form, barley water is gentle on a compromised digestive system, providing nutrients without adding strain.

Understanding Jaundice and Liver Function

Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes, caused by an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment, in the blood. Bilirubin is a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown and is normally processed by the liver before being excreted from the body. When the liver is not functioning correctly, it can't process bilirubin efficiently, leading to its accumulation. While medical intervention is crucial for proper treatment, a liver-friendly diet is an important part of the recovery process. This is where supportive foods like barley come into consideration.

How Barley Supports Liver Health

Barley is a whole grain rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that aid in digestion and detoxification. Several properties make it a beneficial dietary supplement for those with liver issues like jaundice:

Diuretic Effect: Well-boiled barley acts as a natural diuretic, increasing urine output. This helps the body flush out waste products and toxins, assisting the liver's detoxification efforts.
Antioxidant Properties: Barley contains powerful antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds and tocols, which help combat oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can be elevated in patients with jaundice, and these antioxidants help protect liver cells from damage.
Hydration: Barley water is an excellent way to stay hydrated, which is crucial for easing digestion and supporting the liver's recovery. The high-water content helps flush toxins out of the kidneys and liver.
Easy to Digest: For a compromised liver, easily digestible foods are key. Barley, especially when prepared as a broth or water, is gentle on the digestive system, providing energy without overworking the liver.

Scientific Studies on Barley and Jaundice

Research has explored the effects of barley, particularly in neonatal jaundice. A 2017 study conducted in Iran investigated the use of topical barley flour and oral barley flour on neonatal jaundice. The study indicated that barley flour therapy, used alongside conventional phototherapy, was more effective than phototherapy alone in reducing indirect bilirubin levels. While this study focused on infants and a specific application method, it provides insight into barley's potential antioxidant properties that may help liver function.

How to Prepare Barley for Jaundice Management

For dietary support, barley water is the most common preparation method. It is soothing and easy for the body to absorb. Here is a simple recipe:

Ingredients: 1 cup of pearl barley, 7-8 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of honey (optional), and lemon juice to taste.
Instructions:
1. Wash the barley thoroughly under cold water until it runs clear.
2. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed barley and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the barley is soft.
4. Strain the liquid and let it cool to room temperature.
5. Add optional honey and fresh lemon juice for flavor.
6. Store in the refrigerator and sip throughout the day.

Important Considerations and Risks

While barley offers numerous benefits, it's essential to understand its limitations and potential risks, especially for those with a serious medical condition like jaundice.

Comparison: Barley Water vs. Medical Treatment


Feature	Barley Water (Complementary Therapy)	Medical Treatment (Standard Care)
Mechanism	Supports detoxification and hydration via diuretic and antioxidant properties.	Targets the root cause of jaundice, such as viral hepatitis or other liver disease.
Efficacy	Can aid in recovery and symptom management, but not a standalone cure.	Addresses the underlying condition and provides effective resolution.
Speed	Slow, supportive action; part of a long-term dietary plan.	Can provide rapid relief, especially for severe cases requiring immediate intervention.
Application	Dietary supplement, provides hydration and nutrients.	Includes medication, phototherapy (for neonates), and, in severe cases, more advanced interventions.
Safety	Generally safe, but excessive fiber can cause digestive issues. Consult a doctor first.	Administered and monitored by healthcare professionals to prevent complications.

Barley should never replace prescribed medical treatment. It is a supportive measure, not a cure. Anyone with jaundice should consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Excessive consumption of fiber-rich foods during a compromised digestive state can sometimes cause bloating or discomfort, so moderation is key.

Conclusion: A Supportive Role, Not a Cure

In conclusion, barley can be a good supportive dietary addition for managing jaundice, but it is not a cure. Its benefits stem from its diuretic, antioxidant, and liver-supporting properties, particularly when consumed as barley water. It aids in hydration, helps the body flush out toxins, and provides easily digestible nutrients during a time of compromised liver function. However, it is paramount to use barley as a complementary therapy under the guidance of a medical professional, alongside conventional treatment. For severe cases of jaundice, delaying medical treatment by relying solely on home remedies can be dangerous and worsen the condition. The best approach is a holistic one that combines professional medical care with a liver-friendly diet, including supportive foods like barley. For more information on liver-friendly foods, consult a resource like Medical News Today's guide on liver health.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, barley water cannot cure jaundice. It is a supportive dietary supplement with diuretic and antioxidant properties that can aid liver function, but it must be used alongside prescribed medical treatment, not as a replacement.

Barley assists the liver by acting as a natural diuretic, which helps flush toxins from the body. It also contains antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and protects liver cells from damage.

While generally safe, it's best to consult a doctor before adding barley water to your diet, especially if you have a serious medical condition. Excessive fiber intake can sometimes cause digestive discomfort, and it's essential to ensure it doesn't interfere with your treatment.

Barley water is the most recommended form for jaundice, as it is hydrating and easy to digest. You can make it by boiling pearl barley in water, straining the liquid, and adding a little lemon or honey for flavor.

The primary risk is relying on it as a sole treatment, which can delay proper medical care and worsen the condition. Additionally, some people might experience digestive issues from the fiber, so starting with small amounts is recommended.

Pearl barley is commonly used for making barley water. It cooks faster and can be easily found in most grocery stores.

While whole barley grains are nutritious, they contain high fiber and can be harder to digest for an already compromised liver. Barley water or a well-cooked barley broth is often gentler and more recommended during the recovery phase.