Avena

Avena
Avena sativa common names: oat extract, wild oats

Avena is the green tops of the cereal plant oats, harvested avena

before the plant flowers. The name is latin for "wild oats" and some studies have shown it may be beneficial for male libido. It is also used to threat nervous exhaustion, insomnia and is an anti-inflammatory.

It is a sedative for ADD (attention deficit disorder) and for ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). It is rich in calcium, phosphorus and B vitamins.

Benefits of Avena

Benefits for specific health conditions include the following:

Attention deficit disorder (ADD). Reduces symptoms of withdrawl from Ritalin, relieves sadness.
Eczema. Oatmeal baths sooth skin.
Menopause. Eases hot flashes, PMS symptoms, insomnia, depression and anxiety. The calcium component helps prevent osteoporosis.
Diminished sex drive. Increases free testosterone, thereby increasing libido for men.

When used for diminished sex drive, avena is ususally taken in tincture form with other herbal combinations.

Read about more herbs at the herb online dictionary.

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