Oat Straw

Oatstraw

Latin Name: Avina sativa

Other Names: Wild Oats, Milky Oats, Cat Grass

TCM Name: Yen-mai

Family: Poaceae/Graminaceae (Grass)

Parts Used: Whole plant, but particularly milky oat tops (immature seeds)

Energetics and Taste: Cooling, moistening, sweet

Properties: Nervine, Adaptogen, Nourishing and Restorative, Anxiolytic, Circulatory Support, Demulcent, Skin Health

Uses: Oatstraw is wonderful for burnout. This gentle sunny restorative ally is one of the foundational nourishing herbs used in folk herbalism. Very high in vitamins and minerals. Calms the nervous system, strengthens the heart, lowers cholesterol, balances hormones, boosts libido, and increases production of breastmilk. What can’t she do?

Personal Notes: My heart throbs for Avina. Once you recognize her you will spot her all over California and just smile from ear to ear to watch her sway in the breaze and listen to her grassy snare. One of the most pleasant and simple infusions to have cold or warm and works wonderfully as a base for tea blends.