Oats
Avena sativa
Description:
This is a plant that is cultivated worldwide. It is an annual grass with smooth stalks that are 60 to 100 centimeters high. The medicinal parts include the above ground parts (fresh or dried), the dried, ripe fruits, and the dried, threshed leaf and stem.
Composition:
The dried, threshed leaf and stem contains silicic acid.
Properties:
De-furred oats may lower serum cholesterol and hinder prostaglandin biosynthesis. Anti-itch.
Uses:
External: Inflammatory and seborrheic skin disease, especially those with itching.
Also used in foot baths for chronically cold, tired feet and as a tea for flu and coughs.
Side Effects:
No health hazards known with proper administration of therapeutic dosages.
Administration:
May be prepared as a bath additive.