Avena Sativa Benefits And Information

Avena sativa, more commonly known as oats, has long been used as a cereal grain. People have eaten oats since prehistoric times, and it is the most common grain used to raise livestock as well. While most people are familiar with oat cereal, many may not be aware of the range of medicinal properties attributable to avena sativa. Oat grains are high in protein and contain a number of beneficial substances, including saponins, flavonoids, starch, alkaloids, steroids, calcium, iron, B-vitamins and the amino acids lysine and methionine.

In India, avena sativa was often given to people addicted to cigarettes, opium, and morphine to help them overcome their addiction. The grain has a sedative property, and it is said to have a calming and relaxing effect that is highly supportive of the nervous system. In colonial times, bedding was often stuffed with oat straw to relax people when they went to sleep.

Avena sativa has also been touted for its apparent ability to heighten the sense of touch and make physical sensations more pleasurable. For this reason, it is considered a natural aphrodisiac, though it doesn't function in the same way as traditional aphrodiasiacs (which work primarily by increasing blood flow). Still, avena sativa is often an ingredient in herbal formulas used to enhance sexual potency.

The high nutrient content of avena sativa makes oatmeal and other oat-based foods popular for increasing vigor, energy and stamina. In recent times, the grain has attracted much interest for its ability to lower levels of "bad" (HDL) cholesterol. Because of its high fiber content, avena sativa can bind toxins in the digestive tract and help the body eliminate them. It also contains the anti-cancer compound b-sitosterol, and it is used in folk medicine as a remedy for tumors.

Avena sativa can be used topically to reduce inflammation and treat dry skin, eczema and other skin conditions. The seeds can be ground to make a poultice, and it is also used as an ingredient in salves and lotions. It can be added to bath water to soften and soothe the skin. The silicon in oat straw is the primary ingredient that gives avena sativa its anti-inflammatory properties.

The benefits of avena sativa can be obtained simply by eating oats on a regular basis. In order to benefit from the various properties of avena sativa, whole oats should be consumed. Some of the common names for avena sativa include steel cut oats, rolled oats, oatmeal and oat bran.

For people who do not have the time or inclination to eat oat cereals, avena sativa is available in several supplement forms. Tablets and capsules can be used to supplement intake of oat-based foods to lower cholesterol levels and cleanse the digestive system. Tinctures and liquid extracts of avena sativa are usually used for the purpose of treating addictions. Liquid extracts are also popular as nerve tonics. Since it is a food, avena sativa has no recommended daily amount. It is generally safe and can be consumed without side effects.

Have you been the victim of a product that makes exaggerated claims? Launch a complaint!

US visitors should submit a complaint to the US Federal Trade Commission!

Canadians, submit a complaint at the Canadian Competition Bureau!