Avena Sativa 15:1

History and Uses:
Oats have been eaten since prehistoric times. The genus name, Avena, is derived from Latin and means "nourishing," and sativa means "cultivated." Avena Sativa 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, when the stalks are cut and bound together, and then left upright to dry. Oat straw is simply the crushed dry stalks. In the past, this plant was used in India to help opium, morphine and cigarette addicts overcome their habits. Highly nutritive and supportive of the nervous system, Avena Sativa helps build healthy bones, skin, hair and nails. Avena Sativa is not a bona fide aphrodisiac, but it does nourish the nerves, which is thought to make tactile sensations more pleasurable. Avena Sativa 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. Avena Sativa 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. Avena Sativa 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 Avena Sativa 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 alkaloids are believed to account for Avena's relaxing action.