Oat Straw Avena sativa Uses.

  seminal trace...Oat Straw Avena sativa Uses.Oat Straw Extract,Oat extract.CAS.NO.084012-26-0.Avena sativa extract,Wild Oat Straw Extract.10:1.Oat Straw Powdered Extract,Oat Extract,Extract of oats; Avena sativa Linn.,extract...

 

 Botanical Description of Oat Straw:
 Name origin and Archeology:
 Parts used and where grown:
 Constituents and Phytochemicals:
 Historical or traditional use:
 Actions of Oat Straw:
 Health Benefits of Oat Straw:
 Recommend of Oat Straw:
 Oats in Devil's work and illusion:
 Research update:Oat Straw Avena sativa


   Botanical Description of Oat Straw:

 Botanical Name:Avena sativa, A. fatua
 Latin Name: Avena sativa
 Order and Family: Poales/Poaceae.
 Genus and specie Avena sativa
 Common Names: Groats, Haber, Hafer, Oatmeal,Oatgrass,Oatstraw,Oat Straw,Oat Straw Herb,Oat Straw Organic,Oat Straw Tea,Oats Organic
 Parts used:The seeds as well as the stalks (straw) are used.Grain, straw,dried sterns,the threshed and dried stem and leaf, and the dried or fresh milky tops.
 Habitat and cultivation:Native to northern Europe, oats are now grown worldwide in temperate regions as a cereal crop. They are harvested in late summer.
 Definition:Oat.Any of various grasses of the genus Avena, especially A. sativa, widely cultivated for their edible grains.
 Note:A now obsolete Middle English name for the plant was haver (still used in most other Germanic languages), surviving in the name of the livestock feeding bag haversack. In contrast with the names of the other grains, "oat" is usually used in the plural.
 
 Magically speaking: Use it to attract fairies.

 Oat Straw consists of the dried threshold, leaf, and stem of the oat plant (Avena sativa). Oat (Avena sativa) is a light-green annual grass with a bushy root. Oats originated in England, France, Poland, Germany, and Russia but are now cultivated worldwide. The fruit, leaves, stem, and seeds are are used. Oats are often consumed as part of the diet and are a good source of protein, fat, and fiber. Oats are a great source of beta-glucan, which is a soluble fiber. Oat also contains alpha-tocotrienols. Oat is a member of the Poaceae/Gramineae family.

 The herb known as oat straw refers to the whole plant, including the leaves and stems. These parts of the plant are dried and chopped, and used in both internal and external forms by traditional herbalists. The grain itself is harvested in late summer, and milled to produce oatmeal and oatbran. Oatmeal, the ground grain, has a high silica content, and can be used externally for skin problems. Oat bran, produced from the coarse husks of the grain, is helpful for reducing cholesterol levels.

 

   Name origin and Archeology:

 Oats have been eaten since prehistoric times. The genus name, Avena, is derived from Latin and means "nourishing". Sativa means "cultivated".

 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. The straw is just the crushed dry stalks. In the past, this plant was used in India to help opium, morphine and cigarette addicts kick 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, making 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 & exhaustion, especially when associated with depression.

 Oat straw has long been used to fill mattresses and for feeding animals. It eventually became food for humans and a benefit medicinally for rheumatism sufferers.Culpeper stated, in 1652, that a poultice made from oat meal and the oil of bay helped the itch of leprosy. But not all were fans of the plant. Earlier, in 1597, Gerard stated that oatmeal was only good for making "a fair and well-coloured maid to look like a cake of tallow."


   Parts used and where grown:

 Medicinal Parts Used:The seeds as well as the stalks (straw) are used.Grain, straw,dried sterns,the threshed and dried stem and leaf, and the dried or fresh milky tops.

 The common oat used in herbal supplements and foods is derived from wild species that have since been cultivated. For herbal supplements, the green or rapidly dried aerial parts of the plant are harvested just before reaching full flower. Many herbal texts refer to using the fruits (seeds) or green tops. Although some herb texts discuss oat straw, there is little medicinal action in this part of the plant. Oats are now grown worldwide.

 Native to the warm Mediterranean regions, oats have been cultivated for thousands of years as a source of food and folk remedies. Today, the oat plant (Avena sativa) is most famous for the nutritious cereal grain that it provides--think morning oatmeal.

 

   Constituents and Phytochemicals:

 Per 100 g, the mature seed is reported to contain 374 calories, 11.0 g H20, 13.1 g protein, 6.1 g fat, 67.4 g total carbohydrate, 5.8 g fiber, 2.4 g ash, 59 mg Ca, 425 mg P, 4.6 mg Fe, 10 mg Na, 0.35 mg thiamine, 0.09 mg riboflavin, and 2.2 mg niacin.

 Generically, oat grains, with 78.7~95.2% DM (mean of 1650 cases = 89.1), contain on a zero moisture basis, 7.4~23.2% CP (mean = 13.3), 1.1~9.7% EE (mean = 5.1), 1.0~28.9% CF (mean = 12.0), 1.6~9.6% ash (mean = 4.1), 56.2~76.2% NFE (mean = 65.5), 0.04~0.48% Ca (mean = 0.11), 0.05~1.02% P (mean = 0.39), 0.22~0.89% K (mean = 0.42), 0.03~0.29% Mg, (mean = 0.19), 0.002~0.03% Fe (mean of 88 cases = 0.008), 2.4~25.7 ppm Cu (mean of 73 cases = 6.6), 20~204 ppm Mn (mean of 199 cases 43), 0.15~0.31% S (mean of 15 cases = 0.23%), 0.01~0.06% Na (mean of 18 cases 0.07), 0.05~0.19% Cl (mean of 19 = 0.11%), 0.000~0.146% Co (mean of 19 cases 0.029%), 2.6~12.1 ppm thiamine (mean of 125 = 7), 0.7~11.7 ppm riboflavin (mean of 137 = 1.8), 4.4~28.4 ppm panothenic acid (mean of 99 cases = 14.5), 5.9~44.0 ppm niacin (mean of 109 cases = 17.8), 0.2~2.4 ppm pyridoxine (mean of 23 = 1.3), 755~1712 ppm choline (mean of 59 cases = 1206), and 0.0~0.22 ppm carotene. 0.00~0.75 ppm folic acid (mean of 30 cases = 0.33), 0.13~1.41 ppm biotin (mean of 25 cases = 0.33 ppm), 4.4~10.1 ppm a-tocopherol (mean of 10 cases = 6.6 ppm) (Miller, 1958). Oats are especially rich in the limiting amino acid lysine, running about 4%, compared to ca 3% in other cereals. While oats average about 17% protein, ARS scientists screening thousands of samples of cultivated and wild species, found that the wild species averaged 27% with some ranging up to 37% (Anon, Agricultural Research 20(3):2. 1973).
 

 Generically, oat hay (73.5~96.0% DM) contains, on a zero-moisture basis, 4.4~17.3% CP (mean of 182 cases = 9.2%), 1.9~6.1% EE (mean of 168 = 3.1), 19.4~38.1% CF (mean of 170 = 31.0), 2.2~12.0% ash (mean of 180 = 7.5), 39.9~58.0% NFE (mean 49.2%), 0.13~0.40% Ca (mean of 34 = 0.26), 0.15~0.43% P (mean of 33 = 0.24), 0.20~2.41% K (mean of 17 0.97), 0.16~1.48% Mg (mean of 12 = 0.29), 0.018~0.056 Fe (mean of 11 = 0.053%), 27.7~168.1 ppm Mn (mean of 22 = 74.6), 4.4 ppm Cu, 0.13~0.20% Na (mean of 5 cases 0.17), 0.46~0.57% Cl (mean of 5 = 0.52), and 0.46~0.086 ppm Co (mean of 3 = 0.068 ppm), 3.3~4.0 ppm thiamine (mean of 3 = 3.5), 5.3~26.0 ppm riboflavin (mean of 10 = 10.1 ppm), and 2.6~346.3 ppm carotene (mean of 28 cases = 100.8 ppm). Oat hulls, averaging 92.6% DM, averages 4.1% CP, 1.4% EE, 32.4% CF, 6.6% ash, 55.5% NFE, 0.10% Ca, 0.11% P, 0.01% Fe, 3.3 ppm Cu, 20.0 ppm Mn. Oat straw (as opposed to hay, averaging 90.1% DM, averages 4.4% CP, 21.1% EE, 41.0% CF, 8.2% ash, 44.3% NFE, 0.33% Ca, 0.10% P, 2.44% K, 0.18% Mg, 0.019% Fe, 10.1 ppm Cu, 39.2 ppm Mn, 0.24% S, 0.37% Na, 0.78% Cl (Miller, 1958). Containing 32¨C36% pentosans, 35% cellulose, and 10~15% lignin, oat hulls are a good source of furfural. Furfural is used in making fungicides, disinfectants, and preservatives. Avenin, an alkaloid isolated from the pericarp, stimulates mammal neuromuscular systems. Saponins have also been reported. Nitrates may be dangerously high. Oats may cause photodermatitis. Experimentally the plants show hypoglycemic activity. On a zero moisture basis, the fresh hay (2 mos.) (11.0% DM) contains 18.2% CP, 28.2% CF, 14.5% ash, 3.6% EE, 35.5% NFE; the hay (from Chile) (87.1% DM) contains 7.1% CP, 30.9% CF, 4.9% ash, 1.9% EE, 55.2% NFE; the straw contains 5.3% CP, 38.0% CF, 10.2% ash, 1.4% EE, and 45.1% NFE (Gohl, 1981). Trigonelline, colamine, choline, tyrosine, L(-)-leucine, L(+)-isoleucine, (-)threonine, L(-)-asparaginic acid, cystine, lysine, histidine, arginine, glycine, methionine, valine, phenylalanine, tryptophane, oxylysine, avenin, saponin, vitamin B1, B2, B6, pantothenic acid, nicotinic acid, vitamin K1,. haematin, phytin, flavone, acovenoside A, 3-0-1-[a-L-rhamnosyl-(I->4)-B-D-glucopyanosyl-(1->2)-B-D-glucopyanasyl]-nutigenin, acovenoside B, b-sitosterol, stigmastadienol, cholesterol, brassicasterol, campestrol, and stigmasterol are listed in Hager's Handbook (List and Horhammer, 1969¨C1979).
 

 Key Components:saponins,alkaloids,sterols,flavonoids,silicic acid,starch,steroidal compounds,proteins (including gluten), vitamins (especially B vitamins,Vitamins B1, B2, D, E,carotene),minerals (especially calcium),wheat protein.

 Content: Alkaloids, carotene, gluten, flavonoids, saponins, starch, steroidal compounds, vitamins B1, B2, D, and E. albumen,gluten,gum oil,other protein compounds,salts,starch,sugar,the pericarp of Oats contains an amorphous alkaloid.

 Oat contains 8 amino acids necessary for human,the ratio of amino acids high and equilibrium,rich in phosphor,iron,and VB2,Saponins,soluble fiber beta-dextrin.The fruits (seeds) contain alkaloids, such as gramine and avenine, as well as saponins, such as avenacosides A and B. The seeds are also rich in iron, manganese, and zinc. The straw is high in silica. Oat alkaloids are believed to account for oats' relaxing effect. It should be noted that this action of oats continues to be debated in Europe; the Commission E Monographs do not endorse this herb as a sedative.However, an alcohol-based tincture of the fresh plant has proved useful in cases of nicotine withdrawal.

 

   Historical or traditional use:

 Uses: Antidepressant, restorative nerve tonic. Recommended for: bed-wetting, depression, skin disorders, insomnia. Promotes sweating.

 In folk medicine as well as among current herbalists, oats are used to treat nervous exhaustion, insomnia, and "weakness of the nerves". A tea made from oats 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.1 Oats were often used in baths to treat insomnia and anxiety as well as a variety of skin conditions, including burns and eczema .

 In folk medicine, Oats were used to treat nervous exhaustion, insomnia, and weakness of the nerves.A tea made from Oat Straw 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.

 Ttraditionally,Oat mainly used as a nerve tonic, for insomnia and depression. Oats provide very high nutrition and help to nourish the debilitated nervous system. Very useful for those who are exhausted and for convalescence. Other uses: prevention of scrofula,prevention of gravel and stones in the bladder and kidneys, clearing to urinary congestion, and to build and strengthen the bones and tissues.

 Folk Use: Said to relive hysteria and balance menstrual cycles. Used for osteoporosis, urinary tract infections. Very high in magnesium, deficiencies of which are linked to menstrual disorders, irritability, poor calcium absorption. Recently oatgrass has become very popular as an aphrodesiac.
 Oats were used in: harvest rituals,prosperity and money spells

 Traditional formulas: Marshmallow and Plantain combination
 Action:Antidepressant - Antispasmodic - Aphrodisiac - Tonic - Rejuvenative.
 Use For:Anxiety - Depression - Addiction - Exhaustion - Stress

 

   Actions of Oat Straw:

 Antidepressant,mildly antidepressant:agent to help depression.
 Antispasmodic:an agent which relieves or eases muscular spasms, cramps or convulsions.
 Demulcent:a substance that soothes inflamed mucous membranes and protects them from irritation.
 Emollient:an agent used externally to soften and soothe.
 Nervine:an agent that has a calming or soothing effect on the nerves, any agent that acts on the nervous system to restore the nerves to their natural state.
 Nutritive:gives nourishment.
 Prostatelium:agent to eliminate prostate disorders.
 Stimulant:an agent that excites or quickens the functional activity of the tissues giving more energy.
 Tonic:an agent that tones, strengthens and invigorates organs or the entire organism giving a feeling of well-being.
 Vulnerary:a healing application for wounds.

 Natural aphrodisiac:Avena Sativa (wild oats), throughout the ages, has been used as a natural aphrodisiac and strength enhancer by men and women. Avena sativa is an extract from wild oats straw, and a rather recent entry to the field of aphrodisiacs. While oats have a long reputation of being the most energizing grain, the alleged sexual effects have not commonly been recognized in previous centuries.

 Stimulant and antispasmodic:Avena sativa is said to free up bound testosterone in both men an women. Medicinal action and uses are primarily as a stimulant and antispasmodic. The pericarp of Oats contains an amorphous alkaloid which acts as a stimulant of the motor ganglia, increasing the excitability of the muscles, and in horses causes excitement.

 Oat straw has certain therapeutic properties and the reported benefits of using it internally, in the form of a herbal tea (infusion) are listed below.:
 

 Antitumor;Anxiety,hyperactivity,immune booster;antidepressant,stress,energy
 Brain protections.Boosting immune system,Body Building,muscle building,building bones,Build bones & Fight osteoporosis
 Calming hyperactive children,Cardiovascular Conditions.Lower cholesterol levels
 Depression and nervous exhaustion,Depression and Insomina.Debility and Stress Relief,Disorders treatment.
 Emollient and Skin cleanser
 Fighting osteoporosis,;Fighting anxiety
 Gastrointestinal Conditions
 Keeps the skin moist and soft
 Impotence treatment
 Multiple sclerosis,Mental function,Mild Nervine,Mild Antidepressant.
 Nutritious remedy,Promote nail health.
 Osteoporosis,pain reliever
 Pain relief,Prevent Deficiencies,panic attacks
 Rheumatism,help broken bones,Reproductive System,Respiratory Conditions,
 Soothing elderly people,Stamina and Muscle functions,Supporting an over-stressed nervous system,Tonic Remedy,Stop smoking,Stop alcohol,Skin and Hair benefit.
 Urinary Tract benefit

 Properties:mucilaginous, antidepressant, diuretic, source of nutrients,Anticholesterolemic; Antispasmodic; Cancer; Cardiac; Diuretic; Emollient; Nervine; Nutritive; Poultice; Stimulant.
 It is a nutritive herb, and acts as a tonic to the heart, nerves, and thymus gland and has excellent emollient properties. Regular consumption of oat germ is said to lower cholesterol levels.
 The seed as well as the straw contains high amounts of soluble silica, iron, manganese and zinc. This is combined with triterpene saponins (avenacin and avenacoside), scopoletin and simple indole alkaloid.

 

   Health Benefits of Oat Straw:

 In traditional medicine, oat straw is used in various forms (liquid extracts, tinctures, and teas being the most popular) to treat a number of ailments, including arthritis and rheumatism; it's also taken as a diuretic tea to combat fluid retention. It is a concentrated source of silica (silicon dioxide), which among dozens of other functions is key to the development of healthy skin, hair, nails, and bones.

 Some sources also recommend oat straw for treating shingles, herpes infections, and addictions. In Europe today, herbalists and alternative health practitioners prescribe oat straw extracts and tinctures as nerve tonics for weakened constitutions, for example. Many regard it as an excellent tonic for the whole body, and valuable for bolstering physical and emotional fatigue, from mild insomnia to anxiety. While the herb has been popular for these uses, there have been no clinical studies to verify these effects. Oat straw soundest reputation by far is as a topical remedy for irritated and inflamed dry skin
 

  Edible Uses.:Coffee; Oil; Seed.

 Seed - cooked. The seed ripens in the latter half of summer and, when harvested and dried, can store for several years. It has a floury texture and a mild, somewhat creamy flavour. It can be used as a staple food crop in either savoury or sweet dishes. Used as a cereal, it is probably best known as the breakfast cereal porridge but it can also be used in many other ways. The seed can be sprouted and used in salads, the grain can also be ground into a flour and used in making biscuits, sourdough etc. It is fairly low in gluten, and so is not really suitable for making bread. The seed is an especially good food for convalescents and people with stomach problems. Oat flour produced in the dry-milling operation currently is used as an antioxidant in food products. Oat flour inhibits rancidity and increases the length of shelf-stability of fatty foods such as vegetable oils. Whilst cultivated oats average about 17% protein, scientists screening thousands of samples of cultivated and wild species found that the wild species averaged 27% with some forms ranging up to 37%.

 Oats are also one of the cereals used as a basic ingredient for making whisky.Oats are harvested when grain is in the hard dough stage and straw is slightly green (when the moisture content of the grain is 14% or less). If too ripe, shattering causes seed loss. Crop is usually cut with binder and left in the field until dry and then threshed. In mechanized societies, oats are combined directly from standing grain. For this type of harvesting, crop must be fully ripe, usually when the straw has lost greenness and glumes have become white. Crop may be combined from windrow, or cut with a header harvester when the crop is dead ripe. Seeds are threshed and cleaned by winnowing, and artificially dried to below 14% moisture for storage.

 The roasted seed is a coffee substitute.An edible oil is obtained from the seed, it is used in the manufacture of breakfast cereals.Food Sources Oats are usually very well tolerated. However, because of the high fiber content, they cause increased frequency of defecation, iriitation, gaseous distention, and flatulence. To minimize side effects, doses should be slowly titrated to the desired level. Adverse reactions typically subside with continued use.
 

  Medicinal Uses Internally:

 Avena is an herbal medicine used for anxiety, eczema (red, itchy skin), high cholesterol, high triglycerides, insomnia (trouble sleeping), hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone), pulled muscles, sexual problems, anemia (low iron in blood), nicotine withdrawal, dysglycemia (blood sugar problems), and to increase milk production in breastfeeding mothers.

 Oats are best known as a nutritious cereal, but they benefit the health in numerous other ways. Oat preparations are taken internally for a wide variety of ailments, including digestive problems, gallbladder complaints, kidney disorders, rheumatism, heart disease, chest and throat complaints, fatigue, diabetes, constipation, depression, diarrhea, anxiety, stress, nerve disorders, bladder problems, sleeplessness, gout, connective tissue disorders, the symptoms of old age, and narcotic and tobacco withdrawal. However, their value for these problems remains unconfirmed; and only external use for skin conditions is considered clearly effective. Oatmeal baths are frequently given to relieve itching from local skin irritations.

 Oat Straw may be used with most of the other herbal nervines, both relaxant and stimulatory, to strengthen the nervous system. It is also used in general debility. The high levels of silicic acid 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 has also been used extensively for culinary purposes. The Oat grain from the ripened seed is high in protein and helps to increase stamina. Oat bran (fiber) has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. 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. The straw is high in silica. Oat alkaloids are believed to account for oats?relaxing action. The common name "Oat" also includes the species Avena fatua, which is used interchangeably with Avena sativa.

  Antitumor: The seed is a mealy nutritive herb that is antispasmodic, cardiac, diuretic, emollient, nervine and stimulant. The seed contains the antitumor compound b-sitosterol and has been used as a folk remedy for tumours. A gruel made from the ground seed is used as a mild nutritious aliment in inflammatory cases, fevers and after parturition. It should be avoided in cases of dyspepsia accompanied with acidity of the stomach. A tincture of the ground seed in alcohol is useful as a nervine and uterine tonic. A decoction strained into a bath will help to soothe itchiness and eczema.

  Body Building: Oat straw is a powerful stimulant and is rich in body building materials. In homeopathy, a tincture is made from the fresh flowering plant and is used in arthritis, rheumatism, paralysis, liver infections and skin diseases. Hot oat straw compresses applied to painful areas from kidney stone attacks has brought relief. Oat straw has many elements that have antiseptic properties and is said to be a natural preventative for contagious disease when taken frequently as a food.

  Brain functions: Oat straw acts as a stimulant of the motor ganglia, increasing the excitability of the muscles,good for related disease such as insomnia, nerve tonic, nervous prostration and exhaustion after febrile diseases,restores and strengthens the brain, restores the nervous system.

  Build bones & Fight osteoporosis: Oat straw is high in silicon and rich in calcium. It contains phosphorus and vitamins A, B1, B2 and E.The stalks (oat straw) are used as a herbal tea and are used to fight osteoporosis, to build bones and for pain relief, calming hyperactive children, soothing elderly people, fighting anxiety and panic attacks, boosting the immune system, lifting depression and countering nervous exhaustion.

  Cardiovascular Conditions: Beneficial action on the heart muscle, restores and strengthens the heart.
 

  Depression and Insomina: Avena sativa has many medicinal purposes, and has been shown to be a nutritive and tonic for the nervous system, thus reducing stress, exhaustion and nervousness.Oats are used to treat depression and nervous exhaustion, as well as profound lethargy that results from multiple sclerosis, chronic neurological pain, and insomnia. With insomnia, it is thought that oats stimulate sufficient nervous energy to make sleep possible.

  Debility and Stress Relief: Oatstraw is used to treat debility, exhaustion, depression and stress. It is useful remedy in those who are convalescing.Avena Sativa is also thought to help with depression, stress symptoms and to relieve diarrhea.Oats are used internally to treat depression, nervous exhaustion, shingles, herpes, menopausal symptoms, and debility following illness.Oat Straw has also been found to be a nervous system rejuvenator and to counter chronic fatigue syndrome. As a tea, it has been shown to soothe a nervous stomach and strengthen a weak digestive system.

 Oat straw is prescribed by medical herbalists to treat general debility and a wide variety of nervous conditions. The grains and straw are mildly antidepressant, gently raising energy levels and supporting an over-stressed nervous system. Oats are used to treat depression and nervous exhaustion, as well as the profound lethargy that results from multiple sclerosis, chronic neurological pain, and insomnia. With insomnia, oats are thought to stimulate sufficient nervous energy to make sleep possible. Oats are on of the principal herbal aids to convalescence after a long illness.

 Whilst used mainly as a food, oat grain does also have medicinal properties. In particular oats are a nutritious food that gently restores vigour after debilitating illnesses, helps lower cholesterol levels in the blood and also increases stamina.

  Dietary Fiber: Since oat is a dietary fiber, it influences the regularity of bowel movement. Oat is often used for disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder, kidney, and cardiovascular systems. It is used for constipation, diarrhea, rheumatism, throat and chest complaints, fatigue, hypertension, lowering uric acid levels, and in tonics. Oat is said to have sedative, and diuretic effects.

  Disorders treatment: The straw from oats is also used as a remedy, for inflammatory skin diseases accompanied by itch, as well as for impetigo (a contagious skin eruption), frostbite, eye problems, bladder and rheumatic disorders, gout, and disorders of the metabolism. In foot baths, it's employed as a remedy for chronically cold or tired feet, and as a tea it's taken for flu and coughs. Effectiveness of the straw has not, however, been studied.

  Emollient and Skin cleanser: Externally, oats are used as an emollient and an excellent skin cleanser with a balanced pH for sensitive skin or where conditions make it impossible to use commercial creams and soaps. A decoction added to a bath helps soothe skin itchiness, including such conditions as eczema.

  Gastrointestinal Conditions: Useful for treatment of dyspepsia,easy digestion in inflammatory conditions and fevers,gastroenteritis,gastrointestinal inflammation,Genitourinary System Conditions,

  Impotence treatment: Beneficial for the prostate gland,impotence,spermatorrhea (involuntary release of semen).One of the most popular applications for oat straw however is in sexual enhancement supplements,as it has aphrodisiac-like effects on the body.Avena sativa can enhance libido by reducing stress and easing the mind, much like ginkgo and damiana.The herb is becoming a popular natural alternative to pharmaceutical erection enhancers without the dangerous side effects. In men it is effective for treating impotence and premature ejaculation.In women it reportedly increases sexual desire.Wild oats on the other hand have been used as a natural aphrodisiac and strength enhancer by men and women and is said to help free bound testosterone as well as stimulate the motor ganglia, thereby increasing the excitability of the muscles.

  Lower cholesterol levels: A daily dose of oat bran is also used to lower cholesterol levels.When consumed regularly, oat germ reduces blood cholesterol levels.Oat bran lowers cholesterol, and an oat-based diet may improve stamina. Oats, and oat straw in particular, are tonic when taken medicinally.Oats have been shown to lower cholesterol and combat the production of prostaglandins (hormones that act on the blood vessels and other organs in the body).Beta-glucan is thought to be responsible for the cholesterol-lowering effects of oat.
 

  Mental function: Oat straw herbal can also improve mental function, concentration, as well as sharpen focus.

 Mild nervine: Traditionally, oat straw was considered a mild "nervine," an herb thought to calm and heal nervous symptoms. On this basis, it was used to treat insomnia, stress, anxiety, and nervousness. In addition, oat straw tea was used for arthritis, and an alcohol extract of oat straw for the treatment of narcotic and cigarette addiction. However, there is no evidence that it is effective when used for any of these purposes.

  Mild Nervine: Oat Straw is a restorative herb assisting in renewing and strengthening the vitality of the nervous system as well as restoring elasticity to veins and improving circulatory functions. Avena sativa, an extract from wild oats straw, has been shown to free up bound testosterone in both men an women.

  Mild Antidepressant: Oat straw and the grain are prescribed to treat general debility and a wide range of nervous conditions.They are mildly antidepressant, gently raising energy levels and supporting an over-stressed nervous system. They are of particular value in helping a person to cope with the exhaustion that results from multiple sclerosis, chronic neurological pain and insomnia. Oats are thought to stimulate sufficient nervous energy to help relieve insomnia.

  Nutritious remedy: Oats are a wonderfully nutritious remedy, full of protein, calcium, magnesium, silicon, potassium, iron and vitamins. Their bodybuilding nutrients help make strong bones and teeth and are vital to a healthy nervous system - oats have traditionally been used as a nerve tonic to treat depression, debility and nervous exhaustion. They are helpful when withdrawing from tranquilizers and antidepressants. While being stimulating and energy-giving, they are also relaxing and aid sleep. Since oats are easily digested they make an ideal food for the chronically sick, convalescents and when recovering from childbirth. Oats have the ability to regulate estrogen levels. Oat fibre can significantly lower blood cholesterol, helping to combat cardiovascular disease. Oat can be helpful for high blood pressure, obesity, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Oats have been used as a soothing remedy for irritated conditions of the digestive tract, and for problems such as diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis and constipation. Oat fibre produces bulkier stools and speeds their passage through the gut, reducing the exposure of the gut lining to irritants and carcinogens. This is why oat fibre is said to help prevent cancer of the bowel. Oats are also thought to protect against cancer generally. Another exciting discovery is that oats are helpful to diabetics as they lower blood sugar. They are also useful for fluid retention.

  Prevent Deficiencies: Oats are used also for atonia of the bladder, connective tissue deficiencies, excitation, gout, kidney ailments, rheumatism, skin diseases, insomnia, stress, and bladder weakness.

  Reproductive System: Oats produces a tonic effect on the nerve structure of the sexual organs,sexual debility due to overindulgence.

  Respiratory Conditions: Oats help with chest problems.

  Stamina and Muscle functions: In research in Australia, athletes who were placed on an oat-based diet for 3 weeks showed a 4% increase in stamina. Oats are thought to help maintain muscle function during training and exercise.

  Supporting an over-stressed nervous system: Oats, and oat straw in particular, are a tonic when taken medicinally. Oat straw is prescribed by herbalists to treat general debility and a wide range of nervous conditions gently raising energy levels while supporting an over-stressed nervous system.

  Tonic Remedy: Oats have been a traditional food for people recovering from an illness.It has also been used to supplement fiber in the diet. Today, oats is best known as a nutritious cereal. Its bran lowers cholesterol, and an oat-based diet raises stamina. It is a staple for the convalescent after a long illness.

  Stop smoking: Green oats are thought to have a sedative effect and are also useful when trying to stop smoking by reducing the craving to smoke. Oat straw liquid extract could also help tobacco users kick the habit by easing withdrawal from nicotine.One study revealed that it could even treat opium addiction.Several small studies in the 1970s suggested that oat straw liquid extract might help tobacco users kick the habit by easing withdrawal from nicotine. One study even reported success in using oat straw to treat opium addiction. Well-designed follow-up trials have failed to reproduce these successful results, however. In other words, its effectiveness for tobacco withdrawal purposes remains unclear.

  Stop alcohol: Another oat straw benefit is helping with alcohol, cigarette and drug detoxification. Avena sativa provides a "boost" that invigorates and provides a natural substitute for drugs and alcohol.An alcoholic extraction of oats has been reported to be a deterrent for smoking, though reports that oat extract helped correct the tobacco habit have been disproven.

  Skin and Hair benefit: Oat Straw is a very good herb that can give body and a healthy look to dry and fine hair. Oat Straw gives the hair more body and makes it look more full. Oat Straw is said to promote healthy skin.A poultice made from the ground seeds is used in the treatment of eczema and dry skin.Traditionally it has been used during times of insomnia, anxiety, and depression. Some herbalists consider Oat Straw to be a superb tonic for the whole system, helpful for both physical and nervous fatigue. It has also been used for colds, especially if recurrent or persistent.

 Oat straw has emollient qualities because of its gluten and mucilage content which helps in soothing itchy skin. Tinctures, liquid extracts, creams, cooled oat straw tea compresses can be used to sooth the irritated skin. You can also use the oat straw fine powder as bath additive. Oat straw is also used in the United States in treating rashes and itchy skin conditions.

 Soothe itchy skin. Oat straw has rich emollient qualities due to its high gluten and mucilage content. Tinctures, liquid extracts, creams (available in Great Britain), and cooled oat straw tea compresses can be applied topically to sooth dry, itchy, irritated skin. A fine powder milled from the dried oat straw is also popular as a bath additive. The German government has officially approved of oat straw products for these purposes. A related product made from the same plant, called colloidal oatmeal, is widely used in the United States for rashes and itchy skin conditions such as sunburn and shingles.

  Promote nail health: As a concentrated source of silica, oat straw supplements and herbal tea (as well as oatmeal) may help to strengthen nails that are cracking or splitting. Silica is a key ingredient in nails.Oat straw supplements can strengthen nails since it has concentration of silica.

  Urinary Tract benefit: Oat Straw works very effectively on the Urinary Tract and is beneficial for adverse conditions of the:bladder ,kidneys,ureters and spasmodic conditions of the bladder and ureters,uterine tonic

  Folk Medicine: An alcoholic extraction of oats has been reported to be a deterrent for smoking. Reports that oat extract helped correct the tobacco habit were disproven by Bye et al (1974). The seeds are folk remedies for tumors. The seed contain the antitumor compound b-sitosterol. Tincture of the plant has been used as a nerve stimulant and to treat opium addiction. Various folk cultures consider the oat as antispasmodic, antitumor, cyanogenetic, demulcent, diuretic, nervine, neurotonic, stimulant, tonic and vulnerary (Duke and Wain, 1981). Oats have been suggested in folk remedies for cancer, dyspepsia, egilops, gastroenteritis, gout, hepatosis, insomnia, neurosis, paralysis, parotitis, parturition, psoriasis, rheumatism, spasms, tumors, but other oat species may be involved. In an article riddled with errors, the Globe (February 28, 1984) reports that oat straw, usually taken as a tea, is a sexual nerve tonic.
 

  External use:

 Externally, the grain is emollient and cleansing, and a decoction strained into a bath can help soothe itchiness and eczema.
 Used externally for various medical and cosmetic preparations to treat eczema, acne and dry skin.
 When oat straw is added to a bath it helps with inflammatory skin conditions, as well as seborrhoeic skin disorders.
 Ground dried oats are a traditional ingredient in cosmetics and are used for their clearing and rejuvenating action.
 The plant has cosmetic properties due to the components that make it up and which act:
 - on skin: as a sedative, emollient and moisturizer.
 - on hair: thanks to its moisturizing and revitalizing qualities. This is why it is used in preparations for weak, ill-treated hair or hair that falls out easily.
 Products formulated with Oats are often described for their beneficial action on different types of skin.

 Here follows a summary of the main actions of cosmetic products formulated with this plant:
 Excellent emollient properties.
 Co-assists in the treatment of dry skin.
 Softening effect on sensitive skin.
 It helps to reduce the irritation caused on the skin by unfavorable climatic conditions or on skin with this kind of problem.
 It plays an important role in the treatment of older skin as well as problem skin.
 Excellent agent against pruritus.
 It is used in herbal baths and cosmetics,Infusions of oat straw are used for flu and coughs.

  Other Uses:

 Biomass; Cosmetic; Fibre; Mulch; Paper; Repellent; Thatching.
 The straw has a wide range of uses such as for bio-mass, fibre, mulch, paper-making, building board and thatching. It has also been used as a stuffing material for mattresses and these are said to be of great benefit for sufferers from rheumatism. Some caution is advised in its use as a mulch since oat straw can infest strawberries with stem and bulb eelworm.
 Oat hulls are basic in production of furfural, a chemical intermediate in the production of many industrial products such as nylon, lubricating oils, butadiene, phenolic resin glues, and rubber tread compositions. Oats hulls supply about 22% of the required furfural raw materials. Rice hulls, corn cobs, bagasse, and beech woods make up much of the remainder.
 Oats hulls are also used in the manufacture of construction boards, cellulose pulp and as a filter in breweries.
 A handful of the grains, thrown into the bath water, will help to keep the skin soft because of their emollient action.
 An extract of oat straw prevents feeding by the striped cucumber beetle.
 Oat straw is, as its name suggests, the above-ground parts of the oat plant left after harvesting the grain. In Europe, oat straw is a long-trusted additive to soaps and skin conditioners
 Oats are cultivated for the grain, as source of protein, for hay, as winter cover, and are used as a pasture crop in the growing or 'milk' stage.
 Oats are used for cereals, as rolled oats, in cakes, biscuits and other pastries, for making oat flour which is not considered suitable for making bread, and as a source of an oil.
 Oat straw is used as emergeny fodder, but mostly for bedding purposes because of its excellent absorbent qualities.
 Typical Preparations:Baths, tinctures, teas, and skin care products.
 Oats are popular because a stand is sure, suitable in rotation, gives high quality straw, and has many uses. Currently, the major end products of oats are (1) rolled or flaked oats,(2) furfural, and furans, and (3) antioxidants. Additional products are oat flour, feeding oatmeal, hulls and groats.
 Crushed oats are excellent for ruminants, and are the standard cereal in horse feed. They contain too much fiber to be the chief concentrate in pig rations. Up to 30% good ground oats is used for growing chickens, up to 50% for laying hens. The magnesium helps prevent perosis in chickens. Although the hulls are of limited value in animal feed (almost valueless for cattle). Still coarsely ground oat hulls and oat feed are reported to prevent gastric ulcers in swine.
 Oat hulls are basic in production of furfural, a chemical intermediate in the production of many industrial products (e.g. nylon, lubricating oils, butadiene, phenolic resin glues, and rubber tread compositions).
 Oats hulls supply about 22% of the required furfural raw materials. Rice hulls, corn cobs, bagasse, and beech woods make up much of the remainder.
 Less importantly, oats hulls are also used in the manufacture of construction boards, cellulose pulp, broiler litter, and as a filter in breweries.
 Oat flour produced in the dry-milling operation currently is used as an antioxidant in food products. Oat flour inhibits rancidity and increases the length of shelf-stability of milk, milk products, bacon, frozen fish, and vegetable oils.
 Oats have several other potential applications: protein concentrate foods, texturized vegetable proteins, vegetable gums, infant and geriatric foods, sweeteners, cosmetic preparations, cariostats, pharmaceuticals, adhesives, and abrasives (Schrickel and Scantland, 1981).
 Oatmeal concentrate is one source of plant derived drugs in the US. Extract of oat straw prevents feeding by the striped cucumber beetle.
 Full Bath for: gout,gravel, kidney problems, liver ailments ,lumbago, paralysis, rheumatic problems
 Douche/Enema for:abdominal problems, bladder disorders, intestinal colic
 Sitz Bath for:abdominal problems, bedwetting, bladder problems, intestinal colic.
 Footbath for:chronically cold feet ,tired feet
 Local Wash for:chill blains,eye problems,flaky skin,frostbite,skin diseases,wounds.
 Other Uses:Oatmeal flour is used as a face mask ,substitute for soap

 

   Recommend of Oat Straw:

  Possible Side Effects:

 Some people may have allergic skin reactions (contact dermatitis) to oat flour. If this is true for you, avoid oat straw.
 Are there any side effects or interactions? Oats are not associated with any adverse effects, although those with gluten sensitivity (celiac disease) should use oats with caution.
 When using oat powder in your bath, avoid contact with eyes and acutely inflamed areas.
 Oats are not associated with any adverse effects, although individuals with gluten sensitivity (celiac disease) should use oats with caution.
 Side Effects: Stop taking your medicine right away and talk to your doctor if you have any of the following side effects. Your medicine may be causing these symptoms which may mean you are allergic to it.
 Breathing problems or tightness in your throat or chest,Chest pain,Skin hives, rash, or itchy or swollen skin.

  Dosage of Oat:

 How much should I take? Oats can be eaten as a morning breakfast cereal. A tea can be made from a heaping U.S. tablespoonful (30 grams) of oats brewed with 250 ml (1 cup) of boiling water; after cooling and straining, the tea can be drunk several times a day or shortly before going to bed. As a tincture, oats are often taken at 3-5 ml three times per day. Encapsulated or tableted products can be used in the amount of 1-4 grams per day. A soothing bath to ease irritated skin can be made by running the bath water through a sock containing several tablespoons of oats.
 Oats can be eaten as a morning breakfast cereal. A tea can be made from a heaping tablespoonful of oats brewed with 250 ml (1 cup) of boiling water; after cooling and straining, the tea can be drunk several times a day or shortly before going to bed. As a tincture, oats are often taken at 3 - 5 ml three times per day. Encapsulated or tableted products can be used in the amount of 1-4 grams per day. A soothing bath to ease irritated skin can be made by running the bath water through a sock containing several tablespoons of oats.
 Oat straw extract should be taken according to the manufacturer's directions. Alcohol tincture of oat straw is typically used at a dose of 1/2¨C1 teaspoon three times per day.
 Typical Dosage:As a tea, Oats can be taken repeatedly throughout the day and shortly before bedtime.

  Special tips:

 Topical oat straw products can be applied once or twice a day.
 If you have no powdered oatmeal on hand, simply put 1/2 cup of whole oats into a nylon stocking and hang it from the faucet as you let warm bath water run over it.
 For healthy nails: In addition to eating oatmeal for breakfast, make an oat straw tea by placing a heaping tablespoon of dried herb in up to 9 fluid ounces (1/4 litre, or a little over a cup) of water, and bring to a boil. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, and strain. Drink a cup of the tea (unsweetened or only slightly sweetened), several times a day as desired. Alternatively, place 1 teaspoon liquid extract into 1/4 cup water and drink the mixture twice a day.
 For itchy skin, as a bath additive: Boil 3.5 ounces of chopped oat straw in 3 quarts of for 20 minutes. Then add to warm bath water.
 For tobacco withdrawal, mix 1 teaspoon liquid extract into 1/4 cup water and drink three times a day.
 The oat straw supplements can be applied once or twice daily. If you have no powdered oatmeal you can put ? cup of whole oats into a nylon stocking and hang it from the faucet and let warm water run on it.
 In order to have healthy nails, drink oat straw tea several times a day. Or, place 1 teaspoon liquid extract in ? cup water and drink the mixture twice daily. To make an oat straw tea, place a tablespoon of dried herb to as much as 9 ounces. (a little over a cup) of water and boil. Cool at room temperature and strain.
 As a batch additive to treat itchy skin, boil 3.5 ounces of chopped oat straw in 3 quarts for 20 minutes. Add to warm bath water. In your batch avoid contact with eyes and inflamed areas. For tobacco withdrawal, mix 1 teaspoon liquid into ? cup water and drink three times daily.
 Oat straw has no known drug or nutrient interactions. If you are allergic to oat flour, avoid oat straw. If you have celiac disease, avoid eating oat straw preparation because it contains gluten.

 General Interaction:

 There are no known drug or nutrient interactions associated with oat straw.

  Applications and Administrations:

 The 1997 Commission E on Phytotherapy and Herbal Substances of the German Federal Institute for Drugs recommends oat straw for 'External application: Inflammatory and seborrheic skin disease, especially those with itching.' 'Dosage: Unless otherwise prescribed: 100 g of herb for one full bath; equivalent preparations. Mode of Administration: Comminuted herb for decoctions and other galenical preparations as bath additives.' King's 1898 Dispensatory: 'This plant is a nerve-tonic, stimulant, and antispasmodic. It ranks among the most important restoratives for conditions depending upon nervous prostration, and for the nervous exhaustion consequent upon typhoid and other low fevers, and the accidental disorders arising from these complaints, as weak heart, spermatorrhoea, insomnia, etc.' American Materia Medica, 1919 (Ellingwood): 'In the convalescence of prostrating disease, and during the asthenic or later stages of inflammatory and exanthematous disease and diphtheria, it is as important as quinine and strychnia, and certainly as reliable.' 'The local paralysis of diphtheria, has no better antidote, and if given in hot infusion during the course of acute exanthematous disease, it quickly determines the eruption to the surface and promotes convalescence.' 'Because of its selective action upon the nervous structure which supplies the reproductive organs, it will be found to allay nervous excitement, nervous palpitation of the heart, insomnia and mental weakness, or failure and general debility caused by masturbation, over sexual indulgence, or onanism. It is a sovereign remedy in impotency.

 This writer has had better satisfaction in the use of this agent in the temporary impotence of young newly married men, than from any other single remedy or combination of remedies. If there be prostatic or other local irritation, a combination of this agent with saw palmetto will cover the field.' 'In uterine or ovarian disorders with hysterical manifestations it is of much service. The nervous headaches of the menstrual epoch, especially those accompanied with burning on the top of the head, and sick headaches apparently from disordered stomach at this time, or in fact sick headache at any time if accompanied with nervous weakness, are all promptly benefited by Avena Sativa, provided gastric acidity is neutralized. In atonic amenorrhea with great feebleness, it is valuable. In neuralgic and congestive dysmenorrhea, with slow and imperfect circulation and cold skin and extremities, it is an excellent remedy.' 'There is no danger of forming the habit of taking the drug, as it can be suddenly abandoned at any time without evil consequences, even when given in large quantities.' Oat straw is high in skin-soothing silica, and contains the relaxing alkaloids gramine and avenine, saponins, iron, manganese, and zinc.

 The 1997 Commission E on Phytotherapy and Herbal Substances of the German Federal Institute for Drugs recommends oat straw for 'External application: Inflammatory and seborrheic skin disease, especially those with itching.'
 'Dosage: Unless otherwise prescribed: 100 g of herb for one full bath; equivalent preparations. Mode of Administration: Comminuted herb for decoctions and other galenical preparations as bath additives.'
 King's 1898 Dispensatory: 'This plant is a nerve-tonic, stimulant, and antispasmodic. It ranks among the most important restoratives for conditions depending upon nervous prostration, and for the nervous exhaustion consequent upon typhoid and other low fevers, and the accidental disorders arising from these complaints, as weak heart, spermatorrhoea, insomnia, etc.'

 American Materia Medica, 1919 (Ellingwood): 'In the convalescence of prostrating disease, and during the asthenic or later stages of inflammatory and exanthematous disease and diphtheria, it is as important as quinine and strychnia, and certainly as reliable.'
 'The local paralysis of diphtheria, has no better antidote, and if given in hot infusion during the course of acute exanthematous disease, it quickly determines the eruption to the surface and promotes convalescence.'
 'Because of its selective action upon the nervous structure which supplies the reproductive organs, it will be found to allay nervous excitement, nervous palpitation of the heart, insomnia and mental weakness, or failure and general debility caused by masturbation, over sexual indulgence, or onanism. It is a sovereign remedy in impotency. This writer has had better satisfaction in the use of this agent in the temporary impotence of young newly married men, than from any other single remedy or combination of remedies. If there be prostatic or other local irritation, a combination of this agent with saw palmetto will cover the field.'
 'In uterine or ovarian disorders with hysterical manifestations it is of much service. The nervous headaches of the menstrual epoch, especially those accompanied with burning on the top of the head, and sick headaches apparently from disordered stomach at this time, or in fact sick headache at any time if accompanied with nervous weakness, are all promptly benefited by Avena Sativa, provided gastric acidity is neutralized. In atonic amenorrhea with great feebleness, it is valuable. In neuralgic and congestive dysmenorrhea, with slow and imperfect circulation and cold skin and extremities, it is an excellent remedy.'
 'There is no danger of forming the habit of taking the drug, as it can be suddenly abandoned at any time without evil consequences, even when given in large quantities.'
 When the oat plant matures, it produces a fruit that becomes the grain "oats," a heart-healthy, high-fiber food. This article does not address this form of oat. Rather, it describes products made from the green, unripe oat straw, sold under the names Avena sativa , green oats, and wild oat extract.



   Oats in Devil's work and illusion:

 Oats and corn, according to Kramer and Sprenger, were used to nourish penises stolen by witches:
 And what, then, is to be thought of those witches who in this way sometimes collect male organs in great numbers, as many as twenty or thirty members together, and put them in a bird's nest, or shut them up in a box, where they move themselves like living members, and eat oats and corn, as has been seen by many as is a matter of common report? It is to be said that it is all done by devil's work and illusion, for the senses of those who see them are deluded in the way we have said. For a certain man tells that, when he had lost his member, he approached a known witch to ask her to restore it to him. She told the afflicted man to climb a certain tree, and that he might take which he liked out of a nest in which there were several members. And when he tried to take a big one, the witch said: You must not take that one; adding, because it belonged to a parish priest (Kr?mer & Sprenger 121).


  Scientific References:

  1.Oat Straw Avena sativa Uses.