Avena sativa as Oat Straw is scientifically called, is used as a highly nutritious tea for states of general debility and nervous exhaustion. It is also good as a relaxing tonic for the nervous system and is often taken for insomnia and anxiety when these are due to stress. It also works well as a diuretic and helps if you have a weak bladder or kidney problems. It is rich in phytonutrients, calcium, potassium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, antioxidants, and polyphenols. This tea appears to be particularly beneficial for the brain, sexual function and bone health. The high levels of B-complex vitamins, thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, aid in energy production and metabolism, and the formation of red blood cells. Oat Straw tea can be brewed for up to ten minutes to allow the maximum release of calcium and other nutrients, ideally drink two or three cups a day to gain the maximum effect.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doc for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
