Oats as an Herb

(Avena sativa, A. fatua)

Oats, known scientifically as Avena sativa, are a hardy cereal grain able to withstand poor soil conditions in which other crops are unable to thrive.

Oats have been cultivated for two thousand years in various regions throughout the world.

Before being consumed as a food, oats were used for medicinal purposes, a use for which they are still honored.

Medicinal Uses for Oats

Oats are made into "gruel" by boiling 1 ounce of oatmeal or groats in 3 pints of water until reduced to 1 quart, then strain. Add sugar, lemon, wine, or raisins flavoring. The nutritive quality of Oats is less in a given weight than that of any other cereal grain.

Oats are an excellent source of manganese and a very good source of selenium. In addition, oats are a good source of vitamin B1, dietary fiber, magnesium, protein and phosphorus.

Oats provide a special and healthful type of fiber (beta-glucan) in the diet. Since 1963, study after study has proven the beneficial effects of this special fiber on cholesterol levels. Studies show that in individuals with high cholesterol (above 220 mg/dl), consuming just 3 grams of soluble oat fiber per day (an amount found in one bowl of oatmeal) typically lowers total cholesterol by 8 to 23 percent.

Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal may boost your immune function response in addition to your morning energy levels. In laboratory studies reported in Surgery, the beta-glucan found in oats significantly enhanced the human immune system's response to bacterial infection.

Studies also show that beta-glucan has beneficial effects in diabetes as well. Type 2 diabetes patients given foods high in this type of oat fiber or given oatmeal or oat bran rich foods experienced much lower rises in blood sugar compared to those who were given white rice or bread.

A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine confirms that eating high fiber foods, such as oats, helps prevent heart disease.

Oats are a traditional food for those recovering from an illness. Oat grasses are also used in treatments for stress and anxiety, as well as to nourish and restore nerves and reproductive organs in both men and women and as an antispasmodic.

Stress Busters

Ashwagandha. Mentally, Ashwagandha is perhaps the most potent herbal stress buster. Don't let your health stress you out. Ashwagandha will fight that battle for you.

Geriforte. The antistress, adaptogenic properties of Geriforte retard degenerative changes and accelerate cellular regeneration and repair.

Oats made into packs and pastes clear up many skin disorders, such as acne.

A tincture, or the powdered extract, is helpful for recovering from addiction and may also help cravings for nicotine. It is also recommended as a nerve restorative (oat straw) when trauma or nerve weakness is evident. One dropperful of the liquid extract or 1 tablet of the concentrated extract taken 2 or 3 times daily for an extended period is required for effectiveness.

Culinary

The many methods of processing oats make this grain suited to a wide array of culinary uses. Important ingredient of breakfast cereals, breads, cakes, cookies and muesli snacks.

When whole oats are steamed, then pressed flat with large rollers, they become rolled oats. These come in several varieties. When no more processing is done, they are Old Fashioned Oatmeal, and are great for making granola bars. When oats are pressed thinner than is usually done for old-fashioned oatmeal, then cut into smaller pieces with no additional cooking, the result is quick-cooking oatmeal.

Cautions

Avoid oats if you suffer Celiac disease (gluten intolerance).

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.