When you think of Oat your mind may immediately be drawn to think of Oatmeal which is amazing, but today we are going to focus on Oatstraw, also known as Avena Sativa. Oatstraw is the stem of the oat plant harvested during the milky oat stage, when the plant is still green. Oatstraw has internal AND external benefits that will have you wondering how you never heard of this plant before! We explain the benefits below, and keep in mind, there have been studies done on the plant too that also make you take a second look at this wonderful plant.
INTERNAL Benefits of Oatstraw:
-Oatstraw is packed full of calcium and magnesium which helps to build strong bones
-It helps to relieve stress and anxiety. Since ancient times, oat straw has been used in Ayurvedic medicine to help calm the nerves.
-Studies have found that oatstraw is one of the most potent natural nootropic agents (nootropic agents are used to enhance cognitive function) and has the ability to improve overall mental performance. There was a study done on it which you can read here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26618715
-Rich in phytonutrients and fiber, it may improve digestion. It is also loaded with polyphenols, which helps to fight oxidative stress (we all need help with that if we have used synthetic products before!)
EXTERNAL Benefits of Oatstraw:
-High in mucilage content, the oatstraw plant helps to soothe itchy skin, it's rich in emollient qualities due to it's high gluten content as well.
-Studies have been done to show it helps with dry, irritated skin issues (eczema, dermatitis, etc) - read about it here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25607907
-Another study was done to show it's help with Atopic Detrmatitis - read about it here: https://www.the-dermatologist.com/content/new-learnings-clinical-benefits-colloidal-oatmeal-atopic-dermatitis-1
How to Use Oatstraw effectively:
You can use oatstraw in a tea, you can make a tincture, you can make a poultice, take a bath with oatstraw and many more! We make an Organic Oatstraw and Peppermint Soap using the oatstraw itself which not only soothes but relieves the dry skin (because we use the oatstraw itself, you should never rub directly on affected area, rather you should lather the soap first, then apply)
If you have a gluten intolerance, you shouldn't use Oatstraw internally or externally as it does contain gluten naturally.