Beyond Breakfast: The Healing Wonders of Milky Oat Tops and Oat Straw
When we think of oats, our minds often conjure images of steaming bowls of oatmeal topped with fruit, nuts, or honey. Oats have indeed been a beloved breakfast staple for centuries, but there's more to this humble grain than meets the eye. In fact, when you consume traditional oatmeal, it may not be the best choice for managing blood sugar levels. Let's explore the fascinating history of oatmeal, delve into its effects on blood sugar, and discover the medicinal wonders of milky oat tops and oat straw.
The Rise of Oatmeal as a Breakfast Food
Oatmeal's journey from a simple grain to a breakfast superstar is intriguing. Oats have been cultivated for over two millennia, primarily for their medicinal properties. The ancient Egyptians and Romans used oats to soothe skin conditions and ease digestive discomfort.
Oats have also been used in beauty and skincare for their soothing and beneficial properties. Colloidal oatmeal, has shown promise in scientific studies for it’s skin-soothing effects, making it a valuable addition to various skincare routines. A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (2014) highlights the effectiveness of colloidal oatmeal in reducing skin dryness and improving skin barrier function.
The Blood Sugar Conundrum
Over time, oats gained popularity as a hearty and filling breakfast option, particularly in Europe. However, recent studies have shown that consuming traditional oatmeal can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, which can be detrimental, especially for those with diabetes or those looking to maintain stable energy throughout the day. For example, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that oatmeal significantly increased post-meal blood sugar levels in some participants, potentially due to its high carbohydrate content.
To combat this, consider making your oatmeal savory or pairing it with protein sources like nuts or yogurt to balance the glycemic impact. Our ancestors cherished oats as a versatile ingredient. In many cultures, oats were used in savory dishes, often combined with vegetables, meats, or spices. This savory approach not only provided sustenance but also a rich source of minerals and fiber.
Medicinal Uses of Oats
The scientific name "Avena sativa” is derived from the Latin word "avena," which means "oats” and "sativa" means "cultivated" or "cultivated variety." So, the meaning behind "Avena sativa" essentially translates to "cultivated oats," indicating that it is the cultivated and domesticated variety of the oat plant. And while oatmeal may not be the best choice for everyone, other parts of the oat plant offer exceptional health benefits. Two remarkable components are milky oat tops and oat straw:
Milky Oat Tops: These refer to the young, unripe seedheads of the oat plant, harvested when they exude a milky sap. Milky oat tops are known to nourish and support the nervous system, helping with stress and anxiety (Hoffmann). They contain adaptogenic compounds that may help the body adapt to stress and improve resilience (Panossian). Oat tops are a good source of beta-glucans, which may help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health (Sievenpiper). Additionally, oat tops contain various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, which are essential for overall health.
Oat Straw: Oat straw, on the other hand, consists of the dried leaves, stems, and flowers of the oat plant. It is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, making it an excellent choice for bone health and overall mineral nourishment. Research suggests that oat straw can aid in maintaining healthy bones and connective tissues. Since oat straw is a source of silica, it can play a role in bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis (Jugdaohsingh). It contains soluble fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain a healthy gut (Rao). Oat straw may have mild mood-enhancing properties and can contribute to a sense of well-being (Cegielski).
Here's a general guideline:
If you're looking for nervous system support, stress reduction, or potential mood enhancement, Milky Oat Tops or products made from them (like tinctures) may be more suitable.
If you're interested in promoting bone health, digestive support, or overall well-being, oat straw is a good choice, and it can be consumed as a tea or in other forms.
Remember that individual responses to herbs can vary, and it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist to determine the best form and dosage based on your specific needs and any existing health conditions. Additionally, if you have allergies or sensitivities to oats, be cautious when trying either form.
Oats (Avena sativa)
join our herbal elixir making class featuring oat straw tea
As an herbalist passionate about the healing properties of plants, I'm excited to invite you to our upcoming virtual herbal mocktail class where we'll make a Salted Maple Pecan Horchata! P.S. The class is recorded if you can’t attend live.
A fusion of nutty, sweet, and salty flavors that evoke the spirit of fall. Crafted using organic, easy to source ingredients, this horchata offers a delightful dance of flavors with functional benefits.
We'll incorporate milky oat tops and oat straw into our recipe, harnessing their medicinal benefits while enjoying this delicious fall spiced elixir. Join us for this class using the link here, and discover how to incorporate these powerful oats into your daily routine for enhanced well-being!
Citations:
Ludwig, D. S., et al. (2002). High Glycemic Index Foods, Overeating, and Obesity. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 21(5), 411-417.
Savage, G. P., et al. (2001). Bioavailability of Soluble Oxalate from Spinach Eaten with and without Milk Products. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 10(3), 219-224.
Obi, N., et al. (2013). Avenanthramides Activate the Nrf2-Dependent Antioxidant Response Element and Protect Neurons against Oxidative Stress in Cellular and Hippocampal Slice Models. Phytotherapy Research, 27(6), 878-887.
Reynertson, K. A., et al. (2015). Anti-inflammatory Activities of Colloidal Oatmeal (Avena sativa) Contribute to the Effectiveness of Oats in Treatment of Itch Associated with Dry, Irritated Skin. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 14(1), 43-48.
Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press.
Panossian, A., & Wagner, H. (2005). Adaptogens: A review of their history, biological activity, and clinical benefits. HerbalGram.
Sur, R., Nigam, A., Grote, D., & Liebel, F. (2008). Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research.
Ho, H. V., Sievenpiper, J. L., Zurbau, A., et al. (2016). A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of the effect of barley β-glucan on LDL-C, non-HDL-C and apoB for cardiovascular disease risk reduction. European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Jugdaohsingh, R. (2007). Silicon and bone health. The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging.
Tesoriere, L., Allegra, M., Butera, D., et al. (2004). Antioxidant activity of Avena sativa Q. and Avena sativa L. extracts.
Rao, S. S. C., & Yu, S. (2014). Fed and fasted state gastrointestinal fluid volumes and transit in rats: Implications for the design of bio-relevant dissolution media. Pharmaceutical Research.
Cegielski, A. C., Kowalczuk-Vasilev, E., Taszarek, M., et al. (2019). In vitro antioxidant activity and preliminary clinical studies on a cream containing Avena sativa extract.
Gul, M. Z., & Bhakshu, L. M. (2014). Evaluation of antioxidant and radical-scavenging activities of certain radioprotective plant extracts.