Milky Oats (Avena sativa)  

Family: Poaceae

Part Used: Spikelets

Flavor/Aroma: Sweet

Energetics: Neutral, Moistening

 

Overview:

Milky Oats, or common oats, is a nutrient dense, grass-like plant that has been nourishing livestock and their handlers since herding and farming began. It is known for its neurorestorative properties, aiding in memory, focus, and stamina; and as one of the best ways to nourish our entire nervous system. Milky Oats contains high levels of bioavailable nutrients such as silica, magnesium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, vitamin B complex, and vitamin A and C.  

Milky Oats grows prolifically in most soil types, favoring open fields, roadsides, and generally full-sun conditions. It grows with a smooth stem, reaching heights of up to 4 feet. The spikelets are pendulous, and droop slightly off of the blades of the milky oat leaves.

Cultivation and Harvesting:

Milky Oats is commonly found throughout most northern, temperate climates. Its origins are somewhat unknown, but seem to point to the Sicily region of Italy and Chilean islands.¹ Milky Oats is best harvested when the spikelets are engorged with their white, latex material, which is when the medicinal value of the plant is most concentrated. They are at their peak ripeness in the hottest summer months, and should be harvested with care at this time.

Southern Oregon Cultivation:

Milky Oats are found throughout the Rogue Valley, in low lying, dry conditions with plenty of sun exposure, and thrive in the Southern Oregon heat. In the peak of summer, the oat tops of the plant become engorged with a nutritious, milky fluid that provides foragers with a sweet medicine unlike any others. Its common to find Milky Oats along roadsides, in open fields, and along sunny hillsides.  

History and Folklore:

European Uses: Milky Oats was used to treat a variety of nervous system ailments including fainting spells, headaches, and fatigue. It has also been used to treat excessive worry, involuntary jerking, restless leg syndrome, and turrets. Milky Oats was used to support a low lobido, impotence and wet dreams, premature ejaculation, and general nocturnal loses.

‘Sowing your wild oats’ is an idiom whose meaning refers to the libido enhancing and endocrine nourishing properties of Milky Oats. 4

Active Constituents: The "milky" stage of the oat plant is believed to contain a rich blend of nutrients, including B vitamins, minerals (such as calcium, magnesium, and silica), and certain alkaloids. These components are thought to be most potent when the plant is harvested fresh.

Modern Applications:

• Nervous System Support: A primary modern use for milky oat tops is to support the nervous system. In traditional and contemporary herbalism, milky oats are often referred to as a "nervine trophorestorative," suggesting they help nourish and restore a depleted nervous system. This has led to its use for individuals experiencing occasional stress, nervous exhaustion, or feeling "run down."

• Mood and Resilience: Some people use milky oat tops to support emotional resilience and promote a sense of well-being. It is often considered a tonic for those who feel overstimulated or overwhelmed.

Uses and Preparations:

Due to the delicate nature of the "milky" constituents, milky oat tops are most commonly used as a fresh tincture, which is believed to capture the plant's full potency. They can also be dried and used in teas, although some of the desired compounds may be less concentrated.

Tincture: 

4-6 mL up to 4 times per day, and more as needed.

Some herbal tinctures can have a strong flavor on their own. Adding your tincture to a glass of 6-8oz of water is one easy way to help, should you wish to dilute the flavor.  

Recommended Usage:

It is important to remember that some bodies may react differently than others when using herbal products. Our recommended usage amounts are designed to be an average dosage only. If you have specific concerns about the usage amount or interaction with other medication, please consult with your doctor or health care practitioner prior to using our products.

Precautions:

Milky Oats is safe for tonic use. We recommend consulting with your practitioner if you are pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, or if you are using any other medications.  

• Gluten and Celiac Disease: Although oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, there is a potential for cross-contamination with gluten-containing grains. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should seek products specifically certified as gluten-free.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: As with many herbal products, there is a lack of sufficient safety data regarding the use of milky oat tops during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

References:

1. Avena Sativa. (n.d.). www.henrriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/avena.html 
2. Belkheir, A., De, S., Singh, R. (2013). Avena sativa (Oat), a potential nutraceutical and therapeutic agent: an overview. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23072529 
3. Gaiping, C., Haoming, T., Ling, L., Qingtao, H., Yun, L. (December 7, 2015). The Metabolic Effects of Oat Intake in patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systemic Review and Meta-Anaylisis.www.ncbi.nih.nlm.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4690088 
4. Edwards, Gail Faith. (2000). Opening Our WIld Hearts to the Healing Herbs. Woodstock, NY: Ash Tree Publishing.
5. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://cms.herbalgram.org/expandedE/Oatstraw.html

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.