Is it okay to drink barley in hot water?

January 10, 2026 •

5 min read

According to Healthline, barley tea, made by steeping roasted barley in hot water, is a popular drink in East Asian countries and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Yes, it is okay to drink barley in hot water, and it can offer a range of health benefits depending on whether you are preparing barley tea or barley water.

Quick Summary

This article explores the nuances of consuming barley in hot water, detailing the preparation methods for both barley tea and barley water. It outlines their distinct nutritional profiles, health benefits, and potential side effects, with a comparative table to help you decide which is best for your needs.

Key Points

Two Primary Forms: Hot barley can be consumed as an antioxidant-rich barley tea (from roasted grains) or a fiber-dense barley water (from boiled, raw grains).
Heat-Sensitive Nutrients: While hot water extracts many nutrients, certain heat-sensitive compounds like chlorophyll found in barley grass powder may be degraded.
Digestive Benefits: The fiber in barley water promotes healthy digestion and can prevent constipation, especially when consumed unstrained.
Gluten-Free Warning: As barley contains gluten, it is unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Weight Management Aid: The high fiber content can increase feelings of fullness, helping to reduce calorie intake and support weight loss.
Preparation Method Matters: Boiling raw barley for a longer period results in a more nutrient-dense and fiber-rich beverage compared to steeping roasted barley for tea.
Antioxidant Power: Both barley tea and water provide antioxidants that protect cells from damage and reduce oxidative stress.

Understanding the Two Types of Hot Barley Drinks

When considering if it is okay to drink barley in hot water, it's essential to understand that there are two primary methods of preparation, resulting in two distinct beverages: barley tea and barley water. While both use hot water, the preparation method and source material significantly alter the end product and its nutritional properties.

Barley Tea (Roasted Barley)

Barley tea, known as mugicha in Japan and boricha in Korea, is an herbal infusion made by steeping roasted barley kernels in hot water. The roasting process gives the drink a mild, toasted, and nutty flavor. This method extracts the water-soluble compounds from the barley, including some antioxidants and minerals. Because it's an infusion, it is lower in calories and dietary fiber compared to traditional barley water made from unroasted grains.

Barley Water (Boiled Raw Barley)

Traditional barley water is made by boiling raw, pearl, or hulled barley kernels in water and simmering for an extended period. This process extracts more of the grain's nutrients, including soluble fiber (beta-glucan), which can remain in the liquid if it is not strained. As a result, this beverage is more nutrient-dense and has a different texture than barley tea. It is often consumed for its high fiber content and detoxifying properties.

Health Benefits of Drinking Barley in Hot Water

Regardless of the preparation method, consuming a hot barley drink offers several health advantages:

Aids Digestion: Barley water is rich in dietary fiber, especially when unstrained, which helps promote healthy bowel movements and prevents constipation. The fiber also acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
Hydrates the Body: As a hydrating beverage, hot barley water helps replenish fluids, which is particularly beneficial during illness or exercise.
Rich in Antioxidants: Both barley tea and water contain antioxidants like ferulic acid and polyphenols, which combat free radical damage and reduce oxidative stress.
Supports Weight Management: The high fiber content in unstrained barley water can increase feelings of fullness, helping to reduce overall calorie intake and support weight loss goals.
Promotes Heart Health: The soluble fiber beta-glucan found in barley has been shown to help lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol, promoting better cardiovascular health.
Manages Blood Sugar Levels: Studies suggest that consuming barley can help regulate blood sugar spikes, making it a good choice for people with diabetes or those managing their blood sugar.
Supports Urinary Tract Health: Barley water acts as a natural diuretic, which can help flush out toxins and cleanse the urinary system, potentially helping with urinary tract infections.

Hot vs. Cold Barley Water: A Comparison

The choice between a hot and cold barley drink often comes down to personal preference and the desired effects. Here's a quick comparison:


Feature	Hot Barley Water/Tea	Cold Barley Water/Tea
Flavor	Warm, nutty, and soothing. Especially prominent in roasted barley tea.	Light, refreshing, and often paired with citrus. Roasted barley tea can be a popular chilled summer beverage.
Nutrient Absorption	Heat can increase the extraction of some water-soluble compounds from the grains. However, some heat-sensitive nutrients like chlorophyll (found in barley grass) may be degraded.	Preserves heat-sensitive nutrients, like chlorophyll in barley grass powder, ensuring maximum bioavailability.
Preparation Time	Fast preparation for tea (5-10 minutes) with roasted grains. Longer cooking time for traditional barley water (15-45 minutes).	Requires brewing with hot water first, followed by cooling time in the refrigerator.
Effect on the Body	Offers warmth and comfort, often used for digestive relief and relaxation.	Can be more hydrating and refreshing, particularly beneficial in warm weather.
Key Benefit	Soothes digestion and provides warmth.	Preserves heat-sensitive nutrients and is highly refreshing.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While drinking barley in hot water is generally safe, there are some precautions to consider:

Gluten Intolerance: Barley contains gluten, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Digestive Issues: The high fiber content, especially in unstrained barley water, can cause digestive discomfort like gas, bloating, or cramping if consumed in large quantities.
Allergies: A barley allergy is possible, though rare. People allergic to other cereal grains, such as wheat or rye, may be more susceptible.
Added Sugars: Some recipes call for honey or other sweeteners, which can add unnecessary calories. To maximize health benefits, it is best to drink it unsweetened.

How to Safely Prepare Hot Barley Water

Here is a simple and safe recipe for making traditional barley water:

Rinse the barley: Take 1/4 cup of pearl barley and rinse it thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes any impurities.
Combine and boil: Add the rinsed barley to a saucepan with about 6 cups of water. You can also add lemon peel for extra flavor.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 to 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the water is slightly cloudy.
Strain: Strain the liquid into a heatproof pitcher, discarding the cooked barley grains if you prefer a smoother drink. Some prefer to leave the grains for extra fiber.
Serve and Flavor: Your hot barley water is now ready to drink. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a touch of honey to taste, but it's healthiest to enjoy it plain.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You

In conclusion, drinking barley in hot water is a safe and beneficial practice that can be done in two primary ways: as a toasted, nutty tea or a more nutrient-rich barley water. The method you choose depends on your health goals and taste preferences. Whether you opt for a soothing cup of barley tea or a fiber-rich glass of barley water, incorporating this ancient grain into your hydration routine can support digestive health, provide antioxidants, and aid in weight management. Just be mindful of potential side effects, particularly if you have a gluten intolerance or are sensitive to high fiber intake, and always prepare your drink with safety in mind. By understanding the distinction between the two types of beverages, you can make an informed choice that best suits your wellness journey.

Medical News Today offers a great recipe for lemon barley water that is easy to follow and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

The choice between hot and cold barley water depends on your preference. Hot barley water is soothing and great for digestion, while cold barley water is more refreshing, especially in warm weather. For specific benefits, like preserving heat-sensitive nutrients in barley grass powder, cold preparation is recommended.

Side effects from drinking hot barley water are similar to cold and can include digestive issues like bloating, gas, or cramping due to high fiber intake. It should also be avoided by individuals with gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or a barley allergy.

Yes, drinking hot barley water, particularly unstrained, can aid in weight loss. The high fiber content can help you feel full for longer, which reduces overall calorie intake. Always opt for an unsweetened version to avoid extra calories.

Barley tea is typically made by steeping roasted barley, resulting in a lighter, nutty-flavored infusion. Barley water is made by boiling raw barley, yielding a more nutrient-dense and fiber-rich liquid.

While some sources suggest barley water can be beneficial during pregnancy for hydration and digestion, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before making it a regular part of your diet. Some advise against consuming large amounts of certain barley forms during pregnancy.

Yes, barley is a gluten-containing grain. Therefore, barley water is not suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity and should be avoided.

Yes, the cooked barley grains are edible and can be added to soups, stews, or salads. Leaving them in the drink or consuming them separately is a great way to increase your fiber intake.