And now........Oatstraw!

 

And next let me introduce you to  my laid back, flexible, soothing friend……Oatstraw!

 

Oatstraw (Avena Sativa)

Oatstraw is the remaining part of the oat plant once the grain has been harvested.  Typically the dried herb used for infusions is the milky green tops.  As Avena, she is what is put in many soothing bath and skin products. 

Oatstraw is someone you will want to hang out with.    She is calming……she is moisturizing…. She brings back aliveness!

·         Reduces cholesterol levels and risk of heart disease and diminishes heart rate disturbances such as palpitations

·         A wonderful ally in a stressful day as she nourishes strong nerves and stabilizes moods – keeping you from “flying off the handle”

·         Increases libido

·         Helps to alleviate dryness in the body - particularly good for post-menopausal, bringing back the juiciness!

·         Helps to calm the nervous system and fight depression and anxiety

·         An excellent source of Vitamin B complex

·         Like her sister Nettle, a cup of oatstraw infusion contains more than 300 milligrams of calcium plus generous amounts of many other minerals for strong bones, teeth and nails

·         Oatstraw’s steroidal saponins nourish the pancreas and liver, improving digestion

·         A wonderful aid in fertility

·         Helps restore restful sleep patterns

·         Can help reduce frequency and duration of headaches and alleviate joint pain

How would I make an infusion of oatstraw?  The same way that is used for most infusions.  Put 1 ounce of the dried herb in a glass quart canning jar.  Pour boiling water into the jar to cover the herb and fill it up to the very top.  Screw on the lid and let sit for between 4 and 10 hours.  Then strain out the herb – I pour the whole jar, herb and all, into a mesh reusable produce bag, over a bowl or sauce pan.  Then squeeze out  all of the remaining liquid from the herb thats in the bag.  Then pour all of the liquid back into the canning jar.  Refrigerate.  Drink within 2 to 2 ½ days.  The herb can then be thrown in your yard or garden to finish it's life cycle!

How does she taste?  Delicious!  Very mild and soft, just like her personality!

Here, here for Oatstraw!

Nourishing myself from the inside,

SARAH