Scientific Name - Avena sativa

Properties - Nutritive, nervine, anti-depressant, demulcent, anti-diarreheal

Common Uses - Use in the form of cooked oatmeal or raw in granola-type cereals for general "well-being." Believed to act as a nervine tonic during periods of stress. Cooked oatmeal is used as a poultice to soothe inflammation of the skin, and is a familiar component of cosmetics and herbal bath preparations. Also used to relieve diarrhea.

Parts Used - Seeds and whole plant

Locating & Handling - Purchase rolled oats at grocery store. Other oat preparations are available at health food stores.

Caution - None

Origin - Europe