Organic Oatstraw (Avena sativa)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Oatstraw (Avena sativa)

Family: Poaceae

Common Names: Oats, Wild Oats, Green Oats

Botanical Description: Oatstraw is the green, leafy part of the oat plant (Avena sativa), harvested when the plant is still young, before the seeds have fully matured. The plant grows up to 2 to 4 feet tall and has long, slender, hollow stems with narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The entire plant is soft and slightly fuzzy to the touch. Oatstraw includes the stems, leaves, and sometimes the immature, milky oat tops.

Habitat and Cultivation: Oatstraw is derived from the common oat plant, which is native to Europe and has been cultivated worldwide in temperate climates. Oats thrive in well-drained, loamy soils and prefer full sun. They are grown both as a food crop and for their medicinal properties.

Parts Used: Aerial parts (stems, leaves, and sometimes the milky oat tops)

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Oats, including oatstraw, have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. In ancient Greece, oats were recognized for their ability to soothe and nourish the body, especially the nervous system. In traditional European herbal medicine, oatstraw was often used to treat anxiety, stress, and insomnia, as well as to support overall vitality. Oat baths have also been a long-standing remedy for itchy, irritated skin.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Cooling, moistening
• Taste: Mild, slightly sweet, earthy

Medicinal Actions:

• Nervine: Calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and promotes relaxation.
• Tonic: Strengthens and nourishes the body, particularly the nervous system.
• Demulcent: Soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes, particularly in the digestive and urinary systems.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, especially in the skin and digestive system.
• Emollient: Softens and soothes the skin, reducing irritation and inflammation.
• Nutritive: Provides essential vitamins and minerals, particularly silica, magnesium, and calcium, which support bone, skin, and nervous system health.

System Affinities:

• Nervous System: Oatstraw is best known for its ability to calm and nourish the nervous system. It is used to treat anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia. Oatstraw is considered a tonic, meaning it not only calms but also restores and strengthens the nerves over time.
• Digestive System: The demulcent properties of oatstraw help soothe and protect the mucous membranes of the digestive tract, making it useful in treating gastritis, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Urinary System: Oatstraw is mildly diuretic and can help soothe irritation in the urinary tract, making it beneficial in treating conditions like cystitis.
• Skin: Oatstraw is often used in baths and compresses to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and general skin irritation. Its emollient and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in soothing and healing the skin.
• Endocrine System: Oatstraw supports the endocrine system, particularly the adrenal glands, helping to balance hormones and reduce symptoms of chronic stress and fatigue.

Active Compounds:

• Avenanthramides: Polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, known for their ability to soothe skin irritation.
• Silica: A mineral that supports bone health, connective tissue, and skin elasticity.
• Saponins: Compounds that support the immune system and help reduce cholesterol levels.
• Alkaloids (Avenine): Compounds that have a mild stimulating effect on the nervous system, contributing to the calming and restorative effects of oatstraw.
• Beta-glucan: A type of soluble fiber that supports heart health, lowers cholesterol, and aids digestion.

Uses:

1. Nervous System Support: Oatstraw is commonly used to calm and nourish the nervous system. It is effective in treating anxiety, stress, and insomnia. Oatstraw can be taken as a tea, tincture, or infusion for long-term support.
2. Skin Care: Oatstraw is used in baths, poultices, and compresses to treat various skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and general irritation. It helps to soothe, soften, and reduce inflammation.
3. Digestive Health: The demulcent properties of oatstraw make it useful in treating digestive issues like gastritis and ulcers. It helps soothe and protect the digestive tract.
4. Urinary Health: Oatstraw can help soothe irritation in the urinary tract and is used in herbal infusions to support urinary health, particularly in cases of cystitis or urinary tract infections.
5. Nutritional Support: Oatstraw provides essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health, particularly for the nervous system, bones, and skin. It is often included in herbal infusions or taken as a supplement to nourish and strengthen the body.

Cautions:

• Gluten Sensitivity: While oats are naturally gluten-free, they are often processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing grains, leading to cross-contamination. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should use certified gluten-free oatstraw.
• Excessive Use: In rare cases, excessive use of oatstraw may lead to constipation due to its high fiber content. It is best to use oatstraw in moderation and increase water intake if necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Oatstraw is generally considered safe, but individuals on medication should consult a healthcare provider before using it in medicinal doses.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the calming and anxiolytic effects of oat extracts, supporting their traditional use in treating anxiety and nervous disorders.
2. Research in Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology demonstrated the antidepressant effects of oats, validating their use in treating depression and improving mood.
3. Another study in Journal of Dermatological Treatment explored the benefits of oats in treating skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, confirming their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.