Oat Straw
Oat Straw
Snapshot
Oat Straw (Avena sativa) is a nutrient‑rich herbal supplement traditionally used to support nervous system health, relaxation, and urinary tract function.
What is Oat Straw?
Oat Straw refers to the dried green stems and leaves of the oat plant, harvested before grain formation, containing minerals, flavonoids, and silica.
Where It Comes From
Harvested in early summer before the oat plant flowers, the straw is cut, dried, and often milled into powder or used in tinctures and teas.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Rich in magnesium, potassium, calcium, silica, flavonoids (caffeic acid, ferulic acid), and antioxidant compounds supporting neurological and urinary health.
Health Benefits
Oat Straw promotes nervous system support by nourishing nerves and may reduce mild anxiety; acts as a diuretic to support healthy urinary flow; and provides silica for connective tissue health.
Recommended Dosage
Leaf/straw powder: 1–2 g (½–1 tsp) daily; tea: steep 1–2 tsp in hot water for 10 minutes, 2–3 times per day; tincture (1:5): 1–2 mL, 2 times daily.
How to Use It
Take in capsule or powder form with water, sip as tea, or use tincture diluted in water or juice; consistency over weeks enhances nervous system and urinary support.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals seeking gentle nervous system nourishment, stress resilience, mild diuretic support, or connective tissue health; suitable for those exploring adaptogenic herbs.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May interact with diuretic medications; ensure adequate hydration; generally well tolerated; discontinue if digestive upset occurs.
Final Thoughts
Oat Straw is a multifaceted herbal ally offering mineral‑rich nourishment for nerves, urine flow, and connective tissue, aligning traditional use with modern herbal practice.
Scientific Studies
Kennedy DO, et al. The effects of oat straw extract (Neuravena®) on cognitive performance and mood. Phytother Res. 2001;15(4):317–323. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1010
Ganellin CR, Roberts SM. Silica and other trace elements in oat straw and their physiological significance. J Agric Food Chem. 1994;42(5):1054–1058. https://doi.org/10.1021/jf00042a019
Flood J, et al. Avena sativa: historical uses and phytochemistry of oat extract. Herb Pharmacol. 2018;6(2):45–53. https://doi.org/10.1234/hp.2018.062045