Constituents:
Green oat (harvested before full flowering) contains flavonoids, steroid saponins (avenacosides A & B), carbohydrates, minerals like iron, manganese, and zinc, as well as silica and small amounts of avenin.
Oats
Avena sativa L.
Effects and Use:
Tea made from green oat is used in folk medicine for nervous exhaustion, weakness, and sleep disorders. Alternatively, a homeopathic mother tincture from the fresh plant can be taken as drops — 40 drops in water, three times a day. The exact active component for its calming effects is unclear, though the alkaloid avenin may play a role. Avenin may also support sexual health.
A mild diuretic and uric acid-lowering effect is attributed to the combination of silica, flavonoids, and saponins. Oat straw decoction is used externally as a bath additive to calm the skin and soothe rheumatic or metabolic complaints.
Tea Preparation:
Internal: Steep 1 tablespoon of the herb in 250 ml boiling water for 20 minutes, strain. Drink 3–4 cups daily, including before bedtime.
External: Boil 100 g chopped oat straw in 3 liters water for 20 minutes. Strain and add to a full bath.