Avena sativa
Botanical Nomenclature | Avena sativa |
Common Name | Oat |
Taxonomy- Family | Poaceae |
Distinguishing Features of the Plant | Avena sativa is an annual plant growing up to 130cm, with wide, flat, smooth or pubescent, linear leaves. Every two flowers are joined together in stalks (racemes). The flowering and the harvesting take place from July to August. |
Region Found | Epirus (cultivated, not wild species) |
Part of the Plant with Active Substances | The whole plant, especially the seeds |
Active Substances | Essential oil, vitamin B, C, E, protein (14%), carbohydrates, starch (50%), trigonelline, avenin and other alkaloids, sterols, lipids (5%), saponins, flavones, calcium, copper, cobalt, manganese, zinc, iron, mucus, calcium, albumin, gliin, dextrin, fats, cellulose, silicic acid. |
Pharmacological Effects - Therapeutic Applications | The whole plant has neurotonic, antidepressant, sedative, stimulant, emollient and healing properties. Studies have shown that oat reduces LDL cholesterol levels up to 20%, while it increases HDL cholesterol levels up to 15%. These actions are attributed mainly to the active component of b-glucans, which affects cholesterol absorption and production. Oat is too effective as anticholesterolemic in patients with high cholesterol levels, while it has no effects in person with normal cholesterol levels. Also, seeds' frequent consumption improves metabolism, helps to treat indigestion and reduces high blood pressure. Finally, the plant is used for the treatment of thyroid disorders, estrogen deficiency, degenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis and persistent cold. |
Method of Administration | It is adminstered in the form of herbal tea (500g of dried herb in 2L of boiled water for 5-10min, 3 times a day), in the form of slurry made from the crushed or ramming seeds (60g a day in water or milk) and plant extract (3-5 ml, three times a day). Warning: The use of herb preparations is not recommended without seeking advice from your physician or pharmacist. The substances they contain may interact with the subscribed drugs that the patient already takes, thus eliminating their therapeutic efficacy or inducing toxicity. They may also burden further weakened vital functions of the body thus exposing the patient to increased morbidity and life threatened conditions. |
Toxicity- Adverse Effects | Plant's consumption should be avoided from people with gluten sensitivity. |
References | 1)http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-avena-sativa.html 2)http://herbalacademyofne.com/2014/05/oats-benefits-getting-to-know-avena-sativa/ 3)http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/4-health-benefits-of-avena-sativa-for-women/ 4)http://www.livestrong.com/article/126352-benefits-avena-sativa/ 5)http://www.home-remedies-for-you.com/herbs/oat-herb.html 6) http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/April06/grandmother.htm |