Avena Sativa Extract is a widely used herbal supplement; but is it an aphrodisiac?

Traditional Uses of Avena Sativa

Avena sativa is an extract from wild oats, specifically the straw. Oats originally came from Scotland, and there are some 25 varieties with as many benefits. While the seed is known for its use in cereals, the entire plant actually has a place in herbal medicine.

The immature seeds of oat plants are liquid and, if taken at this stage, are used as a nerve tonic. Mature oat seeds are ground into oatmeal. Once the seeds are harvested, the straw is cut up and used in teas, and is also now formed into an herbal supplement tablet.

Avena sativa has been found beneficial as a mild sleep-inducer for those who have periods of insomnia; some studies indicate that it can reduce the cravings for nicotine and may be of benefit for those trying to quit smoking; because it can increase bowel activity, avena sativa assists in the detoxification process.

Nutrients Found in Avena Sativa

The list of important nutrients found in avena sativa is almost endless, including flavonoids, minerals, alkaloids, vitamins B, D, E, carotene, gluten and fat. Many use this combination of nutrients for recovery from nervous exhaustion due to depression or stress, or as a preventative for stress reactions. Using a paste of oats can relieve itching, swelling, and other symptoms of skin irritations and rashes. Oat bran is a known reducer of cholesterol and an excellent source of dietary fiber.

Carotene in avena sativa is an important nutrient, especially for smokers, as it is a powerful antioxidant, chasing down free radicals ingested through tar and nicotine. As well, carotene assists in the prevention of respiratory illnesses and in promotion of healthy eyes.

Vitamin B complex is long associated with muscle and joint health, so avena sativa offers assistance in this area as well. Vitamin D assists in bone health, and E figures into anti-aging and skin health.

Oat straw has traditionally been used, as already stated, as a nerve tonic. Individuals who suffer from nervous exhaustion, anxiety and stress disorders report some relief from the use of avena sativa supplement. Other studies suggest that, when ground and used as tea, it seems to promote bone health.

Avena Sativa as an Aphrodisiac

Among the many uses of avena sativa, its promise as an aphrodisiac is mixed at this point. For years, it has been used by animal breeders in attempts to promote sexual activity and reproduction. Indeed, the term “feeling his oats,” was often used to refer to horses which were sexually aroused and ready for the breeding process. The reasoning behind the supposition that avena sativa acts as an aphrodisiac, is that the supplement has some ability to free up bound testosterone and release it into the bloodstream. Testosterone in the bloodstream seems to enhance sexual desire.

In humans, it is possible that avena sativa may act as a mild sexual enhancer, especially when used in conjunction with other known aphrodisiac supplements. There are simply not enough studies completed to confirm the effects of avena sativa in this area.

Avena and Athletes

Athletes who have used avena sativa as a natural supplement report that their performance is enhanced and that they do, in fact, experience the feelings of being more powerful and aggressive. This may be the result of the release of testosterone into the bloodstream.

Buy Avena Sativa Supplement

Avena sativa supplement can be purchased in tincture (liquid) form or in tablets, either as a single ingredient or in combination with other sex enhancement supplements. The typical dose of the tincture is about 15 drops 2-3 times a day; for the tablet, one 250 mg. pill two-three times a week would be sufficient. The supplement is available in most health food stores, as well as several Internet sites.

Summary

Avena sativa appears to have some very beneficial effects as an herbal supplement. In terms of its power as an aphrodisiac, however, additional study is certainly warranted. At this point, individuals who are considering its use primarily as a sexual enhancement would be wise to combine it with other known aphrodisiacs for optimum benefit. The very important other health benefits of avena sativa supplement, however, would seem to make is a natural addition to anyone’s regular regimen of nutritional health.