Oat Straw

Oat straw (Avena sativa) is the green stem and leaves of the oat plant, traditionally used in herbal medicine and increasingly supported by modern research for its broad range of health benefits:

Key Health Benefits of Oat Straw

• Supports Brain Function and Mood
  Oat straw extract has been shown in human studies to improve cognitive function and memory in older adults, likely by increasing blood flow to the brain and boosting nitric oxide production. It may also help relieve stress, anxiety, and depression by calming and strengthening the nervous system, enhancing dopamine levels, and supporting mood balance.

• Calms the Nervous System
  Oat straw is celebrated for its ability to soothe frazzled nerves, reduce tension, and promote restful sleep. It is often used as a natural remedy for insomnia, nervous exhaustion, and emotional instability.

• Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
  Bioactive compounds in oat straw, such as avenanthramides, have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These help protect against neurodegeneration, heart disease, colon cancer, and skin irritation, while also supporting overall cellular health.

• Heart and Circulatory Health
  Oat straw may help lower cholesterol, improve blood flow by dilating blood vessels, and nourish the heart and circulatory system. Increased nitric oxide synthesis from oat straw supports healthy blood pressure and circulation.

• Bone and Skeletal Health
  Oat straw is a good source of calcium and other minerals, supporting bone density and strength. It may also stimulate bone cell production, making it beneficial for skeletal health, especially in women.

• Digestive and Blood Sugar Support
  Traditionally, oat straw is used to aid digestion, stabilise blood sugar, and relieve mild digestive discomfort. Its B vitamins and saponins may help regulate energy and prevent blood sugar spikes.

• Sexual and Reproductive Health
  Oat straw is considered a mild aphrodisiac and may support sexual health by improving circulation and balancing hormones. It is also used to ease menstrual discomfort and reduce bloating.

• Skin Health
  Oat straw extract is soothing for sensitive skin, helping to calm redness, dryness, and irritation.

Nutritional Profile

Oat straw is rich in:

• Calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, manganese, and zinc6

• B vitamins

• Antioxidants (avenanthramides, flavonoids)

• Fiber

Oat straw is a nourishing herb that supports the nervous system, brain, heart, bones, and more, making it a valuable addition to holistic wellness routines.

Citations:

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/oat-straw-extract
2. https://www.treeofqi.com/2018/02/herbal-spotlight-oat-straw/
3. https://nootropicsexpert.com/oat-straw/
4. https://www.learningherbs.com/blog/calming-herbs
5. https://globalhealing.com/blogs/education/4-health-benefits-of-avena-sativa-for-women
6. https://www.feedipedia.org/node/12389
7. https://curology.com/blog/oat-straw-extract-benefits-according-to-the-experts/
8. https://www.saskatchewan.ca/business/agriculture-natural-resources-and-industry/agribusiness-farmers-and-ranchers/livestock/cattle-poultry-and-other-livestock/cattle/straw-roughage-source
9. https://fyi.extension.wisc.edu/forage/nutrient-composition-of-straw-used-in-dairy-cattle-diets/