Health Benefits of Barley Tea: Benefits, Uses, Nutrition & How to Brew It

July 28, 2026
Health Benefits of Barley Tea: Benefits, Uses, Nutrition & How to Brew It

Discover Traditional Wellness with Organic Barley Tea

At SFMart, we believe that simple, natural ingredients often offer the greatest everyday benefits. From premium organic grains to authentic Korean teas, our carefully selected products help you enjoy traditional foods that fit modern lifestyles. If you're looking for a delicious caffeine-free tea that can be enjoyed hot or cold, organic barley tea (Boricha) is an excellent choice. SFMart offers premium organic barley tea sourced with quality and freshness in mind.

In this guide, we'll explore the health benefits of barley tea, its nutritional value, how to prepare it, and who can benefit from drinking it regularly.

What Is Barley Tea?

Barley tea, known as Boricha in Korea and Mugicha in Japan, is a traditional beverage made by steeping roasted barley grains in hot or cold water. Unlike black or green tea, barley tea naturally contains no caffeine, making it suitable throughout the day.

Its mild, nutty, roasted flavor has made it a staple drink in many Asian households for generations.

Barley Tea Nutrition

Although barley tea is very low in calories, it contains naturally occurring plant compounds that may contribute to overall wellness.

These include:

  • Antioxidants
  • Polyphenols
  • Flavonoids
  • Small amounts of minerals from barley
  • Beneficial compounds formed during roasting

Because the barley itself is removed after brewing, barley tea is lighter than eating whole barley but still provides beneficial plant compounds.

Health Benefits of Barley Tea

1. Supports Healthy Digestion

One of the best-known barley tea benefits is digestive support.

Traditionally, barley tea has been consumed after meals because it may help:

  • Reduce bloating
  • Ease indigestion
  • Support healthy bowel movements
  • Promote comfortable digestion
  • Reduce feelings of heaviness after eating

Its warm, soothing nature makes it a refreshing beverage after rich meals.

2. Rich in Antioxidants

Roasted barley contains antioxidant compounds that help protect the body's cells from oxidative stress. 

Antioxidants play an important role in:

  • Supporting healthy aging
  • Protecting cells from free radicals
  • Supporting cardiovascular wellness
  • Promoting overall health

Although barley tea shouldn't replace a balanced diet, it can contribute to daily antioxidant intake.

3. Naturally Caffeine-Free

Unlike coffee, black tea, or many energy drinks, organic barley tea contains no caffeine.

This makes it ideal for:

  • Evening relaxation
  • Staying hydrated
  • People sensitive to caffeine
  • Those reducing coffee intake
  • Families looking for a mild everyday beverage

Many people enjoy chilled barley tea during summer and warm barley tea during colder months.

4. May Support Heart Health

Whole barley is well known for containing beta-glucan, a soluble fiber associated with heart health.

Although brewed tea contains much less fiber than the grain itself, roasted barley also contains antioxidant compounds that have been studied for their role in supporting healthy circulation and overall cardiovascular wellness.

5. Helps Keep You Hydrated

Many Korean households drink barley tea instead of plain water throughout the day.

Because it's naturally:

  • Sugar-free
  • Caffeine-free
  • Light in flavor

it's an enjoyable way to encourage regular hydration.

Hydration supports:

  • Healthy digestion
  • Energy levels
  • Body temperature regulation
  • Overall wellness

6. A Good Alternative to Coffee

If you're trying to reduce caffeine without giving up a rich roasted flavor, barley tea is an excellent option.

Many people appreciate its:

  • Toasty aroma
  • Smooth finish
  • Mild nutty taste
  • No caffeine crash

Some blends even combine roasted barley with chicory for a deeper, coffee-like flavour

7. Traditionally Used to Support Blood Sugar Balance

Barley has a low glycaemic impact compared with many refined grains, and whole barley is often included as part of a balanced diet for healthy blood sugar management.

However, barley tea should not be considered a treatment for diabetes. If you have diabetes or take medication to control blood sugar, consult your healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.

How to Brew Barley Tea

Making barley tea at home is simple.

Hot Brewing

  • Add about 3 tablespoons of roasted barley to approximately 10 cups (1 gallon) of boiling water.
  • Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  • Strain and enjoy hot.

Cold Brewing

  • Brew as above and chill in the refrigerator.
  • Alternatively, steep roasted barley in cold water overnight for a lighter flavour.

SFMart's McCabe Organic Barley Tea includes easy brewing instructions for consistent flavour every time. 

Does Barley Tea Contain Gluten?

Yes.

Because barley is a gluten-containing grain, barley tea is not suitable for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.

Anyone following a strict gluten-free diet should avoid barley tea.

Who Should Drink Barley Tea?

Barley tea may be suitable for:

  • People reducing caffeine
  • Those looking for a refreshing everyday drink
  • Individuals wanting a traditional Korean beverage
  • Anyone seeking a naturally roasted tea without added sugar
  • People who enjoy herbal and grain-based teas

Related Products from SFMart

If you enjoy barley tea, you may also like these organic beverages available at SFMart:

Final Thoughts

The health benefits of barley tea go far beyond its comforting roasted flavour. From supporting hydration and digestion to providing antioxidant compounds and a naturally caffeine-free alternative to coffee, barley tea has earned its place as a favourite everyday beverage across Asia.

Whether you're discovering Korean barley tea (Boricha) for the first time or looking for premium organic options, SFMart offers a carefully curated selection of authentic organic grain teas, including McCabe Organic Barley Tea so that you can enjoy traditional flavours with confidence. Explore SFMart's collection of organic teas and healthy pantry staples to make wholesome choices part of your daily routine. 

Related Articles You May Enjoy

Continue exploring healthy grains and traditional beverages with these SFMart guides:

Frequently Asked Questions

Barley tea can be a healthy caffeine-free beverage that contains naturally occurring antioxidants and has long been enjoyed as part of traditional Asian diets.
Most healthy adults can enjoy barley tea daily as part of a balanced diet, provided they do not have gluten sensitivity or coeliac disease.
No. Barley tea is naturally caffeine-free.
Many people drink barley tea after meals because it has traditionally been used to support digestion and reduce bloating.
Both are popular. Hot barley tea offers a comforting roasted flavour, while cold barley tea is especially refreshing during warmer months.
Because it is caffeine-free, barley tea is often considered a suitable alternative to caffeinated beverages. However, pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider before making dietary changes.

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