Avena Sativa (Milky Oat)

Restore and protect the nervous system from exhaustion to restore vital energy

Plant family: Poaceae (Grass family)

Parts Used: Aerial parts in milky stage (immature seeds can be removed from stems)

Herbal Actions: Nervous system trophorestorative, anabolic, antidepressant, cardiac tonic

Indications: Neurasthenia (nervous system exhaustion), fatigue, stress, insomnia, anxiety, weakness, low libido, energy intensive lifestyle, sleep deprivation, “heart weakness” (emotional & physical)

Key Constituents: Soluble oligo- and polysaccharides, steroidal saponin, calcium, magnesium, Vitamin E, avenins (plant storage proteins), indole alkaloids, starch

Therapeutic Dosing: 

• (Optimal) Tincture of the seed in milky stage 30-60 drops 2-3 times per day

• Dried Milky Oat in teas or decoctions 1 tsp per 8oz of water

• Standardized extraction: 2 -10ml daily

Taste: sweet

Energetic Qualities: Moistening, stabilizing, cooling to inflammation (though overall balanced between warning and cooling.)

Clinical picture: Milky oat restores libido (vital energy) by rebuilding tissue in the nervous system, stabilizing people who have mental, emotional, or physical exhaustion. Research has shown that milky oat has a beneficial effect on spermatorrhea (excessive, accidental, premature ejaculation which drains the vital essence) (Yance, 2012). Milky oat has been shown in research to decrease cravings for smoking cigarettes, and thus makes an excellent herbal support for someone with low libido who is trying to decrease or quit smoking.