Barley tea: A low-calorie beverage supporting weight loss, skin health, and overall well-being
Barley tea is a popular traditional beverage in Japan and South Korea, increasingly favored by many for its mild aroma, easy-to-drink flavor, low calories, and completely caffeine-free nature. Not only an alternative to coffee, barley tea also provides many beneficial nutrients such as protein, fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals including iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and silicon.
Supports weight management and cardiovascular health protection
According to research from Shizuoka University (Japan), barley tea contains para-coumaric acid—an antioxidant compound capable of neutralizing free radicals, contributing to a reduced risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension.
Low in calories and caffeine-free, barley tea is suitable for those managing their weight or looking to replace high-calorie beverages.
Roasting barley creates numerous antioxidant compounds and a characteristic aroma, while also helping to improve blood circulation. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan, barley tea also contains GABA—a natural amino acid that helps manage blood triglycerides and cholesterol, and promotes sodium excretion, thereby reducing edema and supporting weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
However, experts note that there is currently not enough strong scientific evidence to confirm that barley tea alone can lead to losing dozens of kilograms in a short period. Therefore, this tea should only be viewed as a supportive beverage within a healthy lifestyle, not an independent weight-loss method.
Contributes to enhancing skin beauty and improving the digestive system
Not only supporting weight management, barley tea is also favored by many Japanese women for its skin benefits. This tea is rich in zinc and silicon—two minerals involved in collagen synthesis that also help regulate melanin metabolism, promoting a more even-toned and healthier complexion.
A study by Kyoto Pharmaceutical University also showed that barley tea extract has the ability to protect the intestinal mucosa, contributing to maintaining digestive health and reducing the risk of complications in people with diabetes.
Moreover, with its cooling properties, barley tea also helps reduce internal heat, minimize edema, and bring a pleasant feeling to the body, especially on hot sunny days.