Via Sarena-Rae SantosContributing writer
What is Oatstraw?
Oatstraw is sometimes called regular oats, oats, herb oats, grass oats, oats, wild oatsor its botanical name Avena sativa. It grows at moderate temperatures, such as in Northern Europe and North America (first). Oatstraw can be recognized by its hollow trunk, sturdy joints, and grass-like structure. Some species of oats produce pods, also known as Milky Oat tops (2).
Health Benefits of Oatstraw
Research has shown that 800-1,600 mg per day is the right dose, which is a highly allergenic way of thinking. Herbal dosages vary depending on individual needs. For example, When it comes to medicinal herbs, perhaps much less is enough (again, everyone is different). But higher dosages can be safely used with nutritious herbs like this one.
Rich in nutrients
Oats are a grain that is mainly used for nutritional purposes and is often consumed in the form of an infusion. This nut is rich in nutrients and known for fiber, folate, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and more (3). Their stalks (oats) also have a high nutritional value. Oatstraw is very rich calcium, potassium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber and antioxidants (4).
May improve blood flow and promote heart health
Oatstraw may also have a positive effect on your overall heart health. Impaired blood flow is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke (5). High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity are all risk factors for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States (6).
Oatstraw has avenanthramides, a unique group of antioxidants that improve heart health (7). More specifically, its ability to increase production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps dilate blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow (8). A 24-week study of 37 elderly participants with excessive weight (a risk factor for heart disease) found that a daily supplement of 1,500 mg of oat straw extract improved significantly improved measures of blood flow in the heart and brain compared with placebo (9).
Anti-inflammatory properties
Oatstraw is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties thanks to a wide range of plant compounds such as avenanthramides and antioxidants Helps fight inflammation (ten). Chronic inflammation is associated with many diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, asthma, and some cancers.11).
In addition, test-tube studies suggest that avenanthramides from oats can decrease cytokine production and secretion (twelfth), which are anti-inflammatory compounds linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other chronic diseases (13).
May improve brain function
Oatstraw has been found to benefit brain function, especially in older adults. Studies have found significant benefits to the brain such as Improve memory, attention and concentration
In Older adults with impaired brain function supplemented with 800–1,600 mg of oats (14,15). In contrast, a 12-week study supplemented with 1,500 mg of oats showed no changes in attention span, memory, concentration, accuracy, or multi-tasking performance in 36 adults. healthy walls with normal brain function (16).
Can improve mood
Oatstraw can improve our mood thanks to its powerful anti-stress, anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties (17). Some research indicates that oats can improve mood by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4) in immune cells (18). Research shows that inhibiting PDE4 can reduce anxiety, stress, and depression (19,20). One animal study found that a low dose of oats given to rats for seven weeks significantly enhanced their ability to cope and respond to stress compared to a placebo (21).
Safety concerns
Some health professionals caution against using oats in pregnant and nursing women. Allopathy considers it unethical to study the use of oats in these women, not because there is evidence of documented harm. Besides, has a long history of safe use in this population. In reality, Most midwives recommend its use during pregnancy. The most popular homemade pregnancy tea blends are NORA – Stinging Nettle, Oatstraw, Raspberry Leaf and Alfalfa. Remember,
Allopathic health professionals are not herbalists, so they will not have the same information as trusted herbalists worldwide.
Notably, trusted herbalist Richard Whelan says that no side effects are to be expected from taking oats, even in high or regular doses. It can be used with confidence during pregnancy or while breastfeeding and is used by the elderly or young children with safety (22).
How to use Oatstraw
You can find oats in the form of dried bulk, pills, powders, teas, infusions, extracts, or tinctures. Liquor always contains the most concentrated amount of herbs. Some women do the NORA blend, while others rotate through the herbs, using a different infusion daily. Teas and soups are also options, especially when following Ayurvedic recipes. If you’re a DIY person, some great recipes for beginners are:
Follow the recommendations of any supplements; My top recommendations are:
Starwest Botanicals Organic American Oatstraw Herbal Tea cut, sieved, and Made with a commitment to continued excellence in product quality. Starwest Botanicals’ in-house quality control laboratory has experienced technicians to provide complete and thorough analysis of all products in their California facility.
Disclaimer: This post is not intended as medical advice. These claims have not been evaluated by the FDA and nothing in this post is intended to diagnose, treat, or cure anything. If you have questions, please do your own research or seek advice from a medical professional.
If you have oats in your natural medicine cabinet, how do you use it?
