Parts used and where grown: The common oat straw used in herbal supplements and foods is derived from wild species that have since been cultivated. For herbal supplements, the green or rapidly dried aerial parts of the plant are harvested just before reaching full flower. Many herbal texts refer to using the fruits (seeds) or green tops. Although some herb texts discuss oat straw, there is little medicinal action in this part of the plant. Oats are now grown worldwide.
In what conditions might oats be supportive? anxiety; eczema; high cholesterol; high triglycerides; insomnia; nicotine withdrawal
Historical or traditional use: In folk medicine as well as among current herbalists, oats are used to treat nervous exhaustion, insomnia, and "weakness of the nerves". Oat straw was thought to be useful in rheumatic conditions and to treat water retention. A tincture of the green tops of oats was also used to help with withdrawal from tobacco addiction.1 Oats were often used in baths to treat insomnia and anxiety as well as a variety of skin conditions, including burns and eczema .