Oat Straw 15:1

Botanical:  Avena sativa (also known as Avena fatua)

Family: Poaceae (haygrass) - Gramineae (grass)

Other common names: Avena Sativa, Oats, Rolled Oats, Wild Oats, Groats, Steel Cut Oats, Common Oats

In folk medicine, Oat Straw was used to treat nervous exhaustion, insomnia and "weakness of the nerves."  A tea made from it was thought to be useful in rheumatic conditions and to treat water retention.  A tincture of the green tops of Oats was also used to help with withdrawal from tobacco addiction.  Additionally, Oats were often used in baths to treat insomnia and anxiety, as well as a variety of skin conditions, including burns and eczema.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Oats have been eaten since prehistoric times, and this use is described by the genus name, Avena, which is said to mean"nourishing."  Sativa means "cultivated," and Oat Straw is often planted to prevent soil erosion, and is widely distributed as a cereal crop.  The fruit and straw are gathered at harvest time, typically in August.  The stalks are cut and bound together and then left upright to dry, and the crushed, dry stalks become the straw.  In the past, this plant was used in India to help opium, morphine and cigarette addicts withdraw from their habits. Highly nutritive and supportive of the nervous system, Oat Straw helps build healthy bones, skin, hair and nails.  Oat Straw is not a bona fide aphrodisiac, but it does nourish the nerves, which is thought to make tactile sensations more pleasurable.   Oat Straw is one of the best remedies for "feeding" the central nervous system, especially when under stress.  It is considered a specific in cases of nervous debility and exhaustion, especially when associated with depression.  Oat Straw may be used with most of the other herbal nervines, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the nervous system and is also used in general debility.   The high levels of silicon in the straw explains its use as a remedy for skin conditions, especially for external applications.  Oat Straw is often used as a bath herb to soften skin and help with eczema and neuralgia.  The husks have been used historically to stuff pillows and bedding, which is said to have a sedative effect and help for those with rheumatism.  Oats have also been used extensively for culinary purposes.  The Oat grain from the ripened seed is high in protein and helps to increase stamina; the Oat bran (fiber) has been shown to lower cholesterol levels; and the straw is high in silica, which is good for skin, hair and nails.  The primary chemical constituents of Oat Straw includes saponins, flavonoids, starch, alkaloids (trigonelline, avenine), steroids, calcium, iron, B-vitamins, lysine and methionine.  The fruits (seeds) contain alkaloids, such as gramine, as well as saponins, such as avenacosides A and B.  The seeds are also rich in iron, manganese and zinc.  Oat Straw alkaloids are believed to account for its relaxing action.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) Capsules, two (2) to three (3) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Currently, there are no known warnings or contraindications with the use of Oat Straw.

Capsule Information:
Our Oat Straw supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.