Milky Oats: Clinical Applications
Welcome to the blog series Herb of the Month!
This week, we will be exploring the numerous benefits and clinical applications of Milky Oats, a tall and slender grass. For centuries, Milky Oat (Avena sativa) has been recognized and valued as a nourishing herb. It contains various active components, including carbohydrates such as mucilage and starch, triterpenoid saponins (avenocosides), sterols (sitosterol & stigmasterol), proteins (avenins), indole alkaloids (gramine & avenanthramides), flavonoids, and a range of important nutrients like Vitamins E and B, iron, manganese, zinc, calcium, silicon, and selenium. Research on Milky Oat Seed has revealed its therapeutic properties, including being an antioxidant, antispasmodic, cardiotonic, nervine tonic, and having nutritional benefits. It also acts as a demulcent and emollient, providing soothing and healing properties for the skin in external applications. It’s important to note that Milky Oat Seed can be used in different forms, including infusion, tincture, and topical applications such as creams, lotions, oils, and poultices. It is generally considered safe, but caution should be exercised for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Because of its versatile roles, it can be used alone or in combination with other herbs and dietary supplements to enhance synergistic and potent medicinal qualities.
Health Benefits of Milky Oats
Nervous System
Milky Oat Seed is highly regarded for its nervine properties, which makes it an excellent herb for supporting and nourishing the nervous system. It is known to have a calming and soothing effect, helping to ease anxiety, nervous tension, and promote restful sleep. A 2020 clinical study entitled “Acute and Chronic Effects of Green Oat (Avena sativa) Extract on Cognitive Function and Mood during a Laboratory Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Humans,” written by David O. Kennedy et al and published in the Nutrients Journal investigated the effects of green Oat (Avena sativa) extract on cognitive function, mood, and response to stress in healthy adults. The study included 132 participants who received different doses of green Oat extract or a placebo for 29 days. The results showed that both a single dose and four weeks of supplementation with green Oat extract improved cognitive function, particularly working memory and multitasking abilities. The highest dose also decreased the physiological response to stress. However, there were no observed effects on mood. This study suggests that green Oat extract may enhance cognitive function and modulate the physiological response to stress.
Another recent 2021 study entitled, “Effects of a Green Oat Herb Extract on Cognitive Performance and Neurophysiological Activity: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study” written by Saul Martinez-Horta et al and published in the Frontiers in Neuroscience Journal investigated the impact of an herb extract from green Oat called Neuravena® on cognitive abilities and neurophysiological activity. The study employed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design with 20 healthy participants and measured neurophysiological activity using electroencephalographic (EEG) signals, while participants completed cognitive tasks. The study found that acute administration of 800 mg of Neuravena® improved processing speed, attention, and executive functions, as shown in tasks related to cognitive performance and neurophysiological measures. Specifically, certain measures of brain activity, namely N2, error-related negativity (ERN), and P3a/P3b, were significantly enhanced, indicating better performance and faster reaction times. The study concludes that Neuravena® positively influenced cognitive performance and had the potential to prevent the negative impact of tiredness during task performance. Overall, the results suggest that Neuravena® could have benefits in improving cognitive function.
Skin Health
Milky Oat Seed, derived from the Oat plant in its early milky stage, has been traditionally used for its beneficial properties in promoting skin health. The seed contains nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which have been found to nourish and protect the skin. It is believed that Milky Oat Seed can help soothe and moisturize dry, irritated skin, improve skin texture, and reduce inflammation. A study was conducted in 2015 entitled “Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Colloidal Oatmeal (Avena sativa) Contribute to the Effectiveness of Oats in Treatment of Itch Associated With Dry, Irritated Skin,” written by Kurt A. Reynertson PhD et al and published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, to determine the mechanism behind the anti-inflammatory benefits of colloidal Oatmeal, a traditional topical treatment for skin rashes, erythema, burns, itch, and eczema. The study found that extracts of colloidal Oatmeal were effective at diminishing pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro and a colloidal Oatmeal skin protectant lotion showed significant clinical improvement in skin dryness, scaling, roughness, and itch intensity. They concluded that the direct anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities exhibited by colloidal Oat extracts contribute to the dermatological benefits observed while using the colloidal Oatmeal skin protectant lotion. Their findings suggest that colloidal Oatmeal can be effective in treating itches associated with dry and irritated skin.
Another study entitled “The effect of topical oatmeal (Avena sativa) on hydration-related skin disorders: A systematic review” written by Karenina Novani Sugondo and Melyawati Hermawan in 2023 and published in the Journal of General-Procedural Dermatology & Venereology Indonesia, reviewed varying literature on the effects of topical Oatmeal on hydration-related skin disorders. A total of 9,538 different studies were found, but their systematic review only used five randomized controlled trials published between 2015 and 2020. These studies evaluated the effect of Oatmeal-contained moisturizers on various skin disorders such as chronic pruritus, uremic pruritus, atopic dermatitis, irritant hand eczema, and dry skin. Despite variations in the form of Oatmeal and the specific skin disorders studied, the literature suggested that Oatmeal-contained moisturizers can improve the clinical assessment and objective measurement of hydration-related skin conditions.
Additional Health Benefits of Milky Oats
Pain & Inflammation
Milky Oat seed has been traditionally used for its potential benefits in managing pain and inflammation. It is believed to contain bioactive constituents that possess anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate discomfort associated with various conditions. A recent 2020 study entitled “Effect of Oat (Avena Sativa L.) Extract on Experimental Sciatic Nerve Injury in Rats” written by Darzian Rostami Z. et al and published in the Archives of Razi Institute, explores the potential effects of Oat extract on sciatic nerve injury in rats. In this study, fifty male rats were divided into five groups: a sham group, a control group without treatment, and three groups with sciatic nerve injuries who received different doses of Oat extract orally. The rats were evaluated after 2 and 4 weeks. Results showed that the Oat extract-treated groups had increased formation of perineurium and epineurium after 2 weeks, decreased inflammatory cells, reduced axon swelling, and increased axon numbers after 4 weeks. These findings suggest that Oat extract may positively impact sciatic nerve repair in rats, but further research is required to determine its effectiveness and safety in human nerve injuries.
Another recent 2021 study entitled “Effects of Oats (Avena sativa L.) on Inflammation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials” written by Sun Jo Kim et al and published in the Frontiers in Nutrition Journal, reviewed 23 randomized controlled trials to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of Oats and its components. The overall evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory effects of Oat consumption was found to be poor. However, significant decreases in CRP levels were observed in subjects with health complications, and IL-6 levels were reduced in subjects with dyslipidemia. These effects may be attributed to avenanthramide and beta-glucan present in Oats. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings. Nevertheless, Oats and Oat-related products may have potential benefits for inflammation in specific health conditions.
Anti-Cancer Benefits
Milky Oat Seed has gained attention for its potential anti-cancer benefits due to its rich antioxidant content, including phenolic compounds. It also contains bioactive compounds like avenanthramides, which have shown anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties in studies. In a 2019 study entitled “Overview of the Anticancer Profile of Avenanthramides from Oat” written by Eleonora Turrini et al published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, they investigate whether certain natural compounds called avenanthramides (AVAs) found in Oats can help prevent and treat cancer. AVAs have been found to have anticancer effects by blocking harmful substances in the body and influencing different processes that contribute to cancer growth and spread. These processes include programmed cell death, slowing down the aging of cells, regulating cell growth, and preventing cancer cells from spreading. Although AVAs seem promising as potential cancer fighters, more research is necessary to understand their effectiveness and ensure their safety through clinical trials and toxicological studies.
Another review entitled “Epidemiological studies of oats consumption and risk of cancer and overall mortality” written by Paolo Boffetta, Frank Thies, and Penny Kris-Etherton in 2014 and published in the British Journal of Nutrition, summarizes the epidemiological studies on the consumption of oats and its potential effects on the risk of cancer and overall mortality. A total of seven studies were reviewed, focusing on cancer risk (including prostate, colorectal, pancreatic, breast, and endometrial cancer) and one study on overall mortality. The results of most cohort studies suggested a weak protective effect of a high intake of oats on cancer risk. However, the studies had limitations such as misclassification of dietary exposure, limited exposure contrast, and potential confounding factors. Notably, no epidemiological studies have been conducted on the effects of oats on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes, despite evidence from experimental studies indicating a protective effect of oats intake on these conditions. Overall, the evidence from these studies suggests a potential protective effect of oats consumption against certain types of cancer, but more research is needed to fully understand its impact on chronic disease risk and mortality.
Final Recommendations
Here are Nancy’s Milky Oats recommendations:
Some Precautions with Milky Oats:
In General: Milky Oats are generally considered gentle and well-tolerated by most individuals, with no known side effects or drug interactions when used internally or externally.
For individuals with Celiac disease: Milky Oats grown and processed with wheat can contaminate Oats, posing a risk for those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Choose certified gluten-free Oats grown and processed separately from wheat to ensure safety. Additionally, Oats contain avenin, similar to wheat’s gliadin protein, which can trigger reactions in some with Celiac disease. Sensitivity to avenin varies among individuals.
For Indiviuals with Hypoglycemia: When considering Milky Oats with hypoglycemia, it is important to approach it with caution. Milky Oats contain carbohydrates, which can affect blood sugar levels.
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to recommending Milky Oats. Because of this, Nancy recommends Booking a 15 Minute Discovery call if you’re interested in taking this wonderful herb. It’s important to consult with a registered clinical herbalist or natural health practitioner trained in clinical herbalism for more resistant and deeper set health issues. They will be able to give a more tailored suggested serving and daily frequency based on your age, gender, body weight, and any present medical conditions.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Other Resources:
Welcome to the blog series Herb of the Month!
This week, we will be exploring the numerous benefits and clinical applications of Milky Oats, a tall and slender grass. For centuries, Milky Oat (Avena sativa) has been recognized and valued as a nourishing herb. It contains various active components, including carbohydrates such as mucilage and starch, triterpenoid saponins (avenocosides), sterols (sitosterol & stigmasterol), proteins (avenins), indole alkaloids (gramine & avenanthramides), flavonoids, and a range of important nutrients like Vitamins E and B, iron, manganese, zinc, calcium, silicon, and selenium. Research on Milky Oat Seed has revealed its therapeutic properties, including being an antioxidant, antispasmodic, cardiotonic, nervine tonic, and having nutritional benefits. It also acts as a demulcent and emollient, providing soothing and healing properties for the skin in external applications. It’s important to note that Milky Oat Seed can be used in different forms, including infusion, tincture, and topical applications such as creams, lotions, oils, and poultices. It is generally considered safe, but caution should be exercised for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Because of its versatile roles, it can be used alone or in combination with other herbs and dietary supplements to enhance synergistic and potent medicinal qualities.
Health Benefits of Milky Oats
Nervous System
Milky Oat Seed is highly regarded for its nervine properties, which makes it an excellent herb for supporting and nourishing the nervous system. It is known to have a calming and soothing effect, helping to ease anxiety, nervous tension, and promote restful sleep. A 2020 clinical study entitled “Acute and Chronic Effects of Green Oat (Avena sativa) Extract on Cognitive Function and Mood during a Laboratory Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Humans,” written by David O. Kennedy et al and published in the Nutrients Journal investigated the effects of green Oat (Avena sativa) extract on cognitive function, mood, and response to stress in healthy adults. The study included 132 participants who received different doses of green Oat extract or a placebo for 29 days. The results showed that both a single dose and four weeks of supplementation with green Oat extract improved cognitive function, particularly working memory and multitasking abilities. The highest dose also decreased the physiological response to stress. However, there were no observed effects on mood. This study suggests that green Oat extract may enhance cognitive function and modulate the physiological response to stress.
Another recent 2021 study entitled, “Effects of a Green Oat Herb Extract on Cognitive Performance and Neurophysiological Activity: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study” written by Saul Martinez-Horta et al and published in the Frontiers in Neuroscience Journal investigated the impact of an herb extract from green Oat called Neuravena® on cognitive abilities and neurophysiological activity. The study employed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design with 20 healthy participants and measured neurophysiological activity using electroencephalographic (EEG) signals, while participants completed cognitive tasks. The study found that acute administration of 800 mg of Neuravena® improved processing speed, attention, and executive functions, as shown in tasks related to cognitive performance and neurophysiological measures. Specifically, certain measures of brain activity, namely N2, error-related negativity (ERN), and P3a/P3b, were significantly enhanced, indicating better performance and faster reaction times. The study concludes that Neuravena® positively influenced cognitive performance and had the potential to prevent the negative impact of tiredness during task performance. Overall, the results suggest that Neuravena® could have benefits in improving cognitive function.
Skin Health
Milky Oat Seed, derived from the oat plant in its early milky stage, has been traditionally used for its beneficial properties in promoting skin health. The seed contains nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which have been found to nourish and protect the skin. It is believed that Milky Oat Seed can help soothe and moisturize dry, irritated skin, improve skin texture, and reduce inflammation. A study was conducted in 2015 entitled “Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Colloidal Oatmeal (Avena sativa) Contribute to the Effectiveness of Oats in Treatment of Itch Associated With Dry, Irritated Skin,” written by Kurt A. Reynertson PhD et al and published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, to determine the mechanism behind the anti-inflammatory benefits of colloidal Oatmeal, a traditional topical treatment for skin rashes, erythema, burns, itch, and eczema. The study found that extracts of colloidal Oatmeal were effective at diminishing pro-inflammatory cytokines in vitro and a colloidal Oatmeal skin protectant lotion showed significant clinical improvement in skin dryness, scaling, roughness, and itch intensity. They concluded that the direct anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities exhibited by colloidal Oat extracts contribute to the dermatological benefits observed while using the colloidal Oatmeal skin protectant lotion. Their findings suggest that colloidal Oatmeal can be effective in treating itches associated with dry and irritated skin.
A recent 2022 study entitled “Bio Actives from Albizia Lebbeck on Acute Lung Injury/ Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Molecular Targets: In-Silico Study” written by Priyanka Mishra et al and published in Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, talks about using natural ingredients found in Albizia lebbeck (Bronco T) to potentially treat Acute Lung Injury (ALI) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which are serious lung conditions caused by inflammation. Current treatments involve using machines to help with breathing and medication, which are not always effective. The study suggests that bioactive substances found in Albizia lebbeck might be able to help by targeting certain molecules that are involved in the development of ARDS. If Albizia lebbeck can be used to target the molecules involved in ARDS, it could help to reduce inflammation and limit the damage in the lungs caused by ARDS.
Additional Health Benefits of Milky Oats
Pain & Inflammation
Milky Oat seed has been traditionally used for its potential benefits in managing pain and inflammation. It is believed to contain bioactive constituents that possess anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate discomfort associated with various conditions. A recent 2020 study entitled “Effect of Oat (Avena Sativa L.) Extract on Experimental Sciatic Nerve Injury in Rats” written by Darzian Rostami Z. et al and published in the Archives of Razi Institute, explores the potential effects of Oat extract on sciatic nerve injury in rats. In this study, fifty male rats were divided into five groups: a sham group, a control group without treatment, and three groups with sciatic nerve injuries who received different doses of Oat extract orally. The rats were evaluated after 2 and 4 weeks. Results showed that the Oat extract-treated groups had increased formation of perineurium and epineurium after 2 weeks, decreased inflammatory cells, reduced axon swelling, and increased axon numbers after 4 weeks. These findings suggest that Oat extract may positively impact sciatic nerve repair in rats, but further research is required to determine its effectiveness and safety in human nerve injuries.
Another recent 2021 study entitled “Effects of Oats (Avena sativa L.) on Inflammation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials” written by Sun Jo Kim et al and published in the Frontiers in Nutrition Journal, reviewed 23 randomized controlled trials to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of Oats and its components. The overall evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory effects of Oat consumption was found to be poor. However, significant decreases in CRP levels were observed in subjects with health complications, and IL-6 levels were reduced in subjects with dyslipidemia. These effects may be attributed to avenanthramide and beta-glucan present in Oats. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm these findings. Nevertheless, Oats and Oat-related products may have potential benefits for inflammation in specific health conditions.
Anti-Cancer Benefits
Milky Oat Seed has gained attention for its potential anti-cancer benefits due to its rich antioxidant content, including phenolic compounds. It also contains bioactive compounds like avenanthramides, which have shown anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties in studies. In a 2019 study entitled “Overview of the Anticancer Profile of Avenanthramides from Oat” written by Eleonora Turrini et al published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, they investigate whether certain natural compounds called avenanthramides (AVAs) found in Oats can help prevent and treat cancer. AVAs have been found to have anticancer effects by blocking harmful substances in the body and influencing different processes that contribute to cancer growth and spread. These processes include programmed cell death, slowing down the aging of cells, regulating cell growth, and preventing cancer cells from spreading. Although AVAs seem promising as potential cancer fighters, more research is necessary to understand their effectiveness and ensure their safety through clinical trials and toxicological studies.
Another review entitled “Epidemiological studies of oats consumption and risk of cancer and overall mortality” written by Paolo Boffetta, Frank Thies, and Penny Kris-Etherton in 2014 and published in the British Journal of Nutrition, summarizes the epidemiological studies on the consumption of oats and its potential effects on the risk of cancer and overall mortality. A total of seven studies were reviewed, focusing on cancer risk (including prostate, colorectal, pancreatic, breast, and endometrial cancer) and one study on overall mortality. The results of most cohort studies suggested a weak protective effect of a high intake of oats on cancer risk. However, the studies had limitations such as misclassification of dietary exposure, limited exposure contrast, and potential confounding factors. Notably, no epidemiological studies have been conducted on the effects of oats on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes, despite evidence from experimental studies indicating a protective effect of oats intake on these conditions. Overall, the evidence from these studies suggests a potential protective effect of oats consumption against certain types of cancer, but more research is needed to fully understand its impact on chronic disease risk and mortality.
Final Recommendations
Here are Nancy’s Milky Oats recommendations:
Some Precautions with Milky Oats:
In General: Milky Oats are generally considered gentle and well-tolerated by most individuals, with no known side effects or drug interactions when used internally or externally.
For individuals with Celiac disease: Milky Oats grown and processed with wheat can contaminate Oats, posing a risk for those with Celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Choose certified gluten-free Oats grown and processed separately from wheat to ensure safety. Additionally, Oats contain avenin, similar to wheat’s gliadin protein, which can trigger reactions in some with Celiac disease. Sensitivity to avenin varies among individuals.
For Indiviuals with Hypoglycemia: When considering Milky Oats with hypoglycemia, it is important to approach it with caution. Milky Oats contain carbohydrates, which can affect blood sugar levels.
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to recommending Milky Oats. Because of this, Nancy recommends Booking a 15 Minute Discovery call if you’re interested in taking this wonderful herb. It’s important to consult with a registered clinical herbalist or natural health practitioner trained in clinical herbalism for more resistant and deeper set health issues. They will be able to give a more tailored suggested serving and daily frequency based on your age, gender, body weight, and any present medical conditions.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Other Resources: