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Oat
(Avena sativa)
oat straw, oat grain
 Description:
An annual grass with a fibrous root. It produces a hollow,
jointed stem, 1-4 feet tall. The leaves are rather rough,
pale green, narrow and flat. The flowers are arranged
in a loose terminal panicle, consisting of 2-flowered
spikelets, 1 inch long. The hairy, grooved grain is narrow,
with almost parallel sides. It is widely cultivated throughout
the world.
Edible,
Medicinal: The grain is used for its nutritional value.
Rolled oats for oatmeal, and in diets for convalescents
and other illnesses. A fine oatmeal is used for a body
rub and a wash for dry skin. It is a antispasmodic, nervine,
and stimulant. Oat extract and tincture is useful as nerve
and uterine tonics. A decoction of the ripe plant treats
depression, estrogen deficiency, and shingles. A tea from
oat straw is used for chest problems, and in baths, that
help many ailments. Boil small pieces of oat straw in
water, 1 hour and strain.
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