Oatstraw

Ingredients: Oat Straw (Avena sativa)

Oatstraw is a grass with erect stems and long blade-like leaves. The small spike-like floret matures into the oat that is edible, and at the immature stage, exudes a white milky substance which some call milky oats. Oats and Oatstraw have been used for centuries for their nutritional value. Oatstraw has an equally long history as a medicinal. It has been historically used by Old European Herbalists to calm the nerves, help enhance cognitive function, energize the body, and more. Externally, Oatstraw was used in foot-baths for tired feet.

History and Folklore:

Believed to be domesticated around 3,000 years ago in the fertile crecent, around the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, it eventually spread to the wet and cooler climates in Europe and became a popular cereal grain, claiming its place as a major food staple along with wheat, barley, and rice. Oatstraw is highly valued for both its nutritive and medicinal properties.

Cultivation and Harvest:

Harvest Oatstraw by cutting the stems, leaving the seed (while still milky) and pod attached. Tinctures of the milky seed can be made while still fresh. If you dry the cuttings for use in teas, allow some of the seed to remain with the drying stems.

Precautions:

Avoid during pregnancy or while nursing.

Traditional Herbal Actions:

nervine, nutritive

Other Names:

Lion’s Ear, Throw-wort, Lion’s Tale

Related Species:

A. fatua and A. barbata

Avena Sativa, commonly known as oatstraw is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries for its health benefits.

Medicinal Benefits

Oatstraw is rich in vitamins and minerals which makes it a great natural remedy for many health conditions. Here are some of its potential benefits:

• Nervous system support: Oatstraw is thought to calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. It may be used to treat anxiety, stress, and nervous exhaustion.
• Cardiovascular health: Oatstraw is considered to be a great herb for heart health. It may help to lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve blood circulation.
• Digestive health: Oatstraw may be used to soothe the digestive system and treat digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.
• Skin health: Oatstraw may be beneficial for the skin as it contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and irritation. It is often used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
• Bone health: Oatstraw considered a rich source of calcium which means it may make a great natural remedy for bone health. It may help to prevent osteoporosis and strengthen bones.

 

Nourishing Herbal Infusion of Oatstraw

One of the best ways to consume oatstraw is by making a nourishing herbal infusion. To make an infusion, you will need:

• 1 quart jar with a lid
• 1 ounce of dried oatstraw
• 1 quart of boiling water

Place the dried oatstraw in a quart-sized canning jar and pour boiling water over it. Stir the mixture,  and cover the jar with a tight-fitting lid (DO NOT SHAKE IT– It will go everywhere). Let the mixture steep for at least 4 hours or overnight. Strain the mixture and drink the infusion throughout the day.

Nourishing herbal infusions of oatstraw is a great way to help the body absorb essential vitamins and minerals. They are great for promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and supporting the nervous system. They can also be helpful for improving digestion, strengthening bones, and promoting overall health and well-being.

If you are new to using oatstraw, start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount you consume. As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using oatstraw for medicinal purposes.

 

None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.

*This statement has not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.