Health Benefits of the Canary Grass Seed (Alpiste)

Besides being the world's largest producer and exporter of canary grass seeds, Canada has also developed a variety of the seed that is 97% hairless. This variety is less likely to cause irritation to the skin. Research is underway for making changes to the crop, so that it is suitable for human consumption.

The scientific name of canary seed or annual canary grass is Phalaris canariensis. It belongs to Poaceae family. Mainly used for feeding birds, the use of this seed for human consumption has been proposed, considering its nutritional value. Though this plant is native to Mediterranean regions, it is also grown in Europe, Argentina, and Canada (Saskatchewan).

In the United States of America, it is grown in North Dakota and Minnesota. The world production of canary grass seeds has been between 151,000 and 377,000 tons in the recent years. The major consumers are Japan and certain countries from Europe and East Asia.

Recently, a study was conducted by the researchers from the American Chemical Society, who removed tiny hair from the surface of the canary grass seeds. Thereafter, the seeds could easily pass through the digestive system.

The researchers feel that the seeds could be a potential gluten-free food alternative for individuals affected by celiac disease. However, one must understand that scientific evidence is required for backing the claims that have been made about these seeds.

When it comes to the composition of minerals, canary grass seed can be compared to oats. The seed's caryopsis (dry, seed-like fruit produced by the grass) has a higher amount of phosphorus, oil, and ash. 100 grams of canary seed groats contain 2.16 g of ash, 5.59 g of oil, and about 583 mg of phosphorus.

The caryopses also contain the eight essential amino acids, in larger concentrations than wheat or corn. The following nutritional data has been provided by the Canaryseed Development Commission of Saskatchewan.

Nutrients (g/100 g)

• Protein - 21.67
• Carbohydrate - 60.93
• Starch - 50.92
• Total dietary fiber - 7.62

Amino Acids (g/100g)

• Alanine 4.5
• Arginine 6.4
• Aspartic 4.4
• Cystine 2.5
• Glutamic 26
• Glycine 3.1
• Histidine 1.6
• Isoleucine 3.9

• Leucine 7.6
• Lysine 2.6
• Methionine 1.9
• Phenylalanine 6.5
• Proline 6.2
• Serine 4.5
• Threonine 2.7
• Tryptophan 2.8
• Tyrosine 3.6
• Valine 4.8

Minerals (mg/100g)

• Calcium 29
• Iron 7.4
• Magnesium 196
• Phosphorus 583
• Potassium 363
• Zinc 3.3

Though the nutritional profile of this seed is quite good, further research is required to find out whether these seeds are fit for human consumption. Its potential as human food is yet to be explored. However, it must be noted that it is used in a type of beverage called atole in certain parts of Mexico.

There are also reports on the health benefits of leche de alpiste, a type of milk or beverage made from these seeds. Leche de alpiste is a nutritious drink that is believed to be an excellent source of iron and protein. For making canary seed milk, all one needs to do is soak five tablespoons of canary grass seeds at night.

In the morning, filter the seeds and put them in a blender with water. Pass the liquid through a filter or sieve. Do not add sugar or any sweetener to the drink. It would be best to drink this beverage on the same day.

As far as the health benefits are concerned, claims have been made about the ability of these seeds in lowering blood sugar levels, as well as reducing weight. The seeds are packed with an enzyme called lipase. Lipase helps the body to break down fats in food.

The production of lipase is adversely affected in case of individuals who have celiac disease, indigestion, or cystic fibrosis. Being rich in lipase, these seeds might help improve digestion. However, the seeds must be consumed raw, as cooking is likely to destroy the nutrients.

It is believed that the presence of plant sterols and esters of caffeic acid might be the reason behind the antioxidant properties of these seeds. It is also believed that these seeds might help reduce inflammation of internal organs such as the liver, pancreas, and the kidneys.

A study conducted in northeast Iran linked high incidence of esophageal cancer to the consumption of flour contaminated with the traditional canary seeds. It is believed that the presence of sharp silica fibers might be the contributing factor.

In an animal study, mice that were fed the traditional variety, developed tumors around the mouth and nose. Thus, it is extremely essential that only the varieties that don't have silica fibers are used.

On a concluding note, scientific evidence is needed to prove the benefits of canary grass seeds. Though it has a great nutritional profile, it would be best to consult your healthcare provider before you incorporate the seeds in your diet. There's also a need to ensure that silica fibers have been removed from the hull.