Herbal Monograph
Oat straw
Avena sativa L.
Poaceae
Premier nervine trophorestorative that deeply nourishes and rebuilds a deplet...
Overview
Plant Description
Annual cereal grass, 60-120 cm (occasionally to 150 cm) tall. Stems (culms) erect, hollow, cylindrical, smooth, glabrous, with prominent nodes, typically 3-5 mm in diameter. Leaves alternate, linear, flat, 15-40 cm long and 6-15 mm wide, with prominent parallel venation, rough to slightly scabrous on upper surface, glabrous below; ligule membranous, 2-6 mm long, truncate or lacerate at the tip; leaf sheaths smooth, striate, open. Inflorescence a loose, open, pyramidal panicle, 15-30 cm long, nodding or spreading, with slender, pendulous branches bearing spikelets at the tips. Spikelets 2-3-flowered, 18-25 mm long; glumes equal, lanceolate, 7-9-nerved, papery, exceeding the florets; lemmas tough, indurate, enclosing the grain, awned or awnless depending on variety; palea thin, nearly as long as the lemma. Grain (caryopsis) fusiform, 6-12 mm long, tightly enclosed within the lemma and palea (the hull), grooved on one side, with a tuft of fine hairs at the apex. Root system fibrous, extensive. The 'milky oat' stage refers to the brief developmental period (approximately 1-2 weeks, typically late June to early July in temperate climates) when the grain, if squeezed or cut, exudes a white, milky latex; this stage occurs between flowering and grain maturity (Zadoks growth stage 73-83, late milk to early dough).
Habitat
Cultivated worldwide as a cereal crop in temperate regions. Prefers cool, moist climates with moderate rainfall. Grows in a range of soil types but performs best in well-drained, fertile, slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5-7.0). Tolerates cooler temperatures and wetter conditions better than wheat or barley. Found wild (as an escape) on roadsides, field margins, waste ground, and disturbed areas throughout temperate Europe, North America, and other regions where it is cultivated. A. fatua (wild oat) occurs spontaneously in similar habitats as an aggressive weed of cereal crops.
Distribution
Cultivated globally in temperate regions. Major producing regions include Russia, Canada, Poland, Australia, Finland, the United Kingdom, the United States (primarily upper Midwest — Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota), Germany, and Scandinavia. The center of origin and domestication is debated, but likely encompasses the Fertile Crescent and Mediterranean basin, with secondary centers of diversity in Ethiopia and the Mediterranean. Avena sativa is thought to have been domesticated later than wheat and barley, initially occurring as a weed within wheat and barley fields before being cultivated in its own right (approximately 3,000-4,000 years ago). Widely naturalized as an escape from cultivation throughout temperate regions worldwide.
Parts Used
Fresh milky oat tops (Avenae herba recens — fresh, unripe aerial tops at milky stage)
Preferred: Fresh plant tincture (1:2 in 75-95% ethanol), prepared immediately after harvest
The fresh tops harvested during the brief 'milky' stage of grain development are considered the premier medicinal preparation for nervous system restoration by Western clinical herbalists. This is the form that exudes a white, milky latex when the unripe grain is squeezed. The fresh material must be tinctured immediately (within hours) in high-proof ethanol, as drying destroys the milky latex and substantially diminishes the nervine trophorestorative activity. This distinction between fresh milky oat tincture and dried oat straw infusion is one of the most clinically important preparation differences in Western herbalism. The milky oat tops contain the full complement of fresh-plant constituents including the milky latex (believed to contain steroidal saponins, silicic acid, and other compounds in their native state), avenanthramides, and minerals.
Dried oat straw (Avenae stramentum — dried stems, leaves, and chaff)
Preferred: Long infusion (dried herb steeped 4-8 hours); also used in bath preparations for skin conditions
The dried aerial parts (straw) of the mature plant are the form most commonly available commercially and recognized in European pharmacopeias. Used as a nourishing, mineral-rich infusion. The German Commission E approved oat straw for external use in baths for inflammatory and seborrheic skin conditions. Rich in silicic acid, calcium, magnesium, and other minerals. Considered a nutritive nervine and mineral tonic, but generally regarded by clinical herbalists as less potent for nervous system restoration than fresh milky oat tops. Best prepared as a long-steeped nourishing infusion (4+ hours) to maximize mineral extraction.
Oat grain (Avenae fructus — mature seed/caryopsis)
Preferred: Whole or rolled oats for food; colloidal oatmeal for topical dermatological use; oat bran for beta-glucan supplementation
The mature grain is the primary food form (oatmeal, rolled oats, oat bran). Rich in beta-glucans (soluble fiber), proteins, lipids, and B vitamins. The beta-glucan fraction has well-established cholesterol-lowering effects (FDA-approved health claim). Oat grain also contains avenanthramides, though concentrations vary by variety and processing. Colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oat grain) is approved by the FDA as an over-the-counter skin protectant for dermatological use (eczema, itching, minor skin irritation). While primarily a food, the grain contributes to the overall nutritive and restorative profile of oat as a medicinal plant.
Key Constituents
Avenanthramides (phenolic alkaloids / anthranilic acid amides)
Avenanthramides are unique to the Avena genus and are not found in other cereal grains, making them signature bioactive compounds. They demonstrate potent antioxidant activity (10-30 times greater than other oat phenolics), anti-inflammatory effects through NF-kB inhibition, anti-pruritic (anti-itch) activity explaining the traditional dermatological use, and potential cardiovascular benefits through inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation and reduction of endothelial adhesion molecule expression. Meydani (2009) reviewed the bioactivity of avenanthramides and confirmed their unique pharmacological profile. Sur et al. (2008) demonstrated that avenanthramide-enriched oat extract reduced atherosclerotic lesion development in a hamster model. The avenanthramides contribute to the anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties of colloidal oatmeal.
Steroidal saponins (avenacosides / avenosides)
The steroidal saponins (avenacosides) are concentrated in the green aerial parts and are believed by many herbalists to be a key factor in the nervine trophorestorative activity of milky oats. They are more concentrated in fresh milky tops and may degrade during drying, supporting the traditional insistence on fresh plant preparations for nervous system restoration. Some in vitro evidence suggests hormonal modulating activity, but clinical evidence for hormonal effects at standard oral doses is limited. Hostettmann and Marston (1995) reviewed steroidal saponins in Avena and other genera. The saponins may also enhance bioavailability of other oat constituents through their surfactant properties.
Flavonoids
The flavonoid fraction of oat, while less extensively characterized than that of some traditional nervine herbs, contributes to the anxiolytic and anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of C-glycosyl flavonoids (vitexin, isovitexin) with known GABAergic activity provides a partial mechanistic basis for the nervine effects. Tricin, as a characteristic grass flavonoid, adds to the anti-inflammatory profile. The overall flavonoid content is moderate compared to dedicated flavonoid-rich herbs.
Silicic acid and minerals
The mineral content of oat straw is a cornerstone of its use as a nutritive tonic and nourishing infusion herb. Silicic acid supports connective tissue, hair, skin, and nail health. Calcium and magnesium support nervous system function, bone health, and muscular relaxation. The broad mineral profile makes oat straw particularly valuable during convalescence, nervous exhaustion, and states of depletion where mineral replenishment is needed. Herbalist Susun Weed popularized the long oat straw infusion specifically for its mineral-extracting properties, recommending 4-8 hours of steeping to maximize mineral release.
Beta-glucans (in grain)
Beta-glucan is the most clinically validated constituent of oat grain, with FDA approval for the health claim that 3 g/day of oat beta-glucan reduces the risk of coronary heart disease through cholesterol reduction. Whitehead et al. (2014) meta-analysis confirmed significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol. Beta-glucans also demonstrate prebiotic effects, supporting beneficial gut microbiota, and immunomodulatory activity through dectin-1 receptor activation on macrophages and dendritic cells. Beta-glucans are primarily a grain constituent and are not significant in oat straw or milky oat preparations.
Alkaloids and other nitrogen-containing compounds
The nitrogen-containing compounds in oat are of modest direct therapeutic importance compared to the avenanthramides and saponins. Trigonelline contributes to the overall metabolic profile and may support blood sugar regulation. Gramine is primarily an ecological defense compound. Avenine is clinically relevant mainly in the context of celiac disease and gluten cross-reactivity concerns. The protein content of oat grain (including avenine) contributes to its nutritive value.
Lipids and fatty acids (in grain)
The relatively high lipid content of oat grain contributes to its nutritive value and the emollient, skin-soothing properties of colloidal oatmeal preparations. The unsaturated fatty acid profile supports cardiovascular health as part of the whole-food matrix. Oat lipids, particularly the polar lipid fraction, contribute to the skin-protective effects of topical oat preparations.
Other constituents
The broader constituent profile of oat — starch, B vitamins, phenolic acids — reinforces its identity as a deeply nutritive plant medicine. The B vitamin content supports nervous system function and energy metabolism, relevant to the traditional use in nervous exhaustion and convalescence. The whole-food matrix of oat grain, with its combination of beta-glucans, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and phenolic compounds, provides a synergistic nutritive effect that exceeds the sum of individual constituents.
Herbal Actions
The defining action of milky oats in Western herbal medicine. A trophorestorative literally 'feeds' and restores the tissue it targets — in this case, the nervous system. This is not a sedative or stimulant action, but a slow, deep nourishment that rebuilds depleted nervous tissue over weeks to months of consistent use. Specifically indicated for nervous exhaustion, neurasthenia, burnout, and states where the nervous system has been chronically depleted by prolonged stress, overwork, illness, grief, or substance abuse. The concept of trophorestoration was articulated by the Eclectic physicians and refined by modern herbalists including David Hoffmann, who considers milky oats the premier nervine trophorestorative in the Western materia medica. The fresh milky oat tincture is strongly preferred for this action; dried oat straw is considered nutritive but less trophorestorative.
[11, 12, 14]Oat strengthens and supports healthy nervous system function as a tonic used over time. Distinguished from a nervine relaxant (which calms acutely) and a nervine stimulant (which activates). The tonic action implies gradual restoration of tone and resilience to the nervous system. Both oat straw infusion (for minerals and silicic acid) and milky oat tincture (for saponins and the full fresh-plant constituent profile) contribute to this action, though through somewhat different mechanisms. The mineral content of oat straw — particularly magnesium, calcium, and silicic acid — supports nerve function at the cellular level.
[2, 11, 13]Oat in all its forms is deeply nourishing. The grain is a staple food providing complex carbohydrates, protein, fats, B vitamins, and beta-glucans. The straw provides a rich mineral infusion (silicic acid, calcium, magnesium). The milky tops provide the full spectrum of fresh-plant nutrients. This nutritive quality is inseparable from the therapeutic identity of oat — it heals by nourishing. Particularly valuable during convalescence, recovery from illness, states of depletion, and as a foundational support for individuals who are nutritionally depleted or constitutionally weak. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia lists oats as a nutritive tonic.
[2, 11, 16]Soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes
The mucilaginous quality of oat, particularly in preparations made from the grain (oatmeal, colloidal oatmeal) and from long-steeped straw infusions, soothes and protects irritated mucous membranes and skin. This demulcent action is relevant internally (gastrointestinal tract) and externally (skin). The beta-glucan fiber contributes to the mucilaginous quality of oat grain preparations. Colloidal oatmeal is FDA-approved as a skin protectant based on this demulcent/emollient action.
[3, 11, 16]Traditional reputation as a mild mood-elevating herb, particularly in the context of nervous exhaustion and depleted states where low mood accompanies fatigue and burnout. The antidepressant action is considered secondary to and emergent from the trophorestorative effect — as the nervous system is nourished and restored, mood naturally improves. Not a direct pharmacological antidepressant in the SSRI sense. The Eclectic physicians described oat as useful for 'nervous debility' with depression. Some modern research on Avena sativa extract (EFLA 955) has explored acute cognitive and mood effects in healthy adults, with preliminary positive results.
[6, 11, 14]Colloidal oatmeal has been used for centuries as a topical soothing agent for itchy, inflamed, or irritated skin. The FDA approved colloidal oatmeal as a Category I skin protectant in 2003. The mechanism involves avenanthramides (anti-inflammatory, anti-itch via inhibition of histamine and leukotriene release), beta-glucans (film-forming, moisturizing), proteins and lipids (skin barrier support), and the overall colloidal properties (water-holding, pH buffering). Cerio et al. (2010) reviewed the anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic mechanisms.
[3, 17, 18]The cholesterol-lowering effect of oat beta-glucan is one of the most well-established therapeutic actions of any plant constituent, supported by multiple meta-analyses and an FDA-approved health claim (1997). The mechanism involves beta-glucan increasing the viscosity of intestinal contents, binding bile acids and increasing their fecal excretion, reducing cholesterol reabsorption, and possibly modulating hepatic cholesterol synthesis. Requires 3 g/day of oat beta-glucan for a clinically meaningful effect. This action is specific to the grain and oat bran, not to oat straw or milky oat preparations.
[4, 10]Therapeutic Indications
Nervous System
Nervous exhaustion, neurasthenia, and burnout
The primary and most specific indication for milky oats. Nervous exhaustion — variously called neurasthenia, nervous debility, or burnout — represents a state of chronic depletion of the nervous system from prolonged stress, overwork, emotional strain, grief, or illness. Symptoms include fatigue that is not relieved by sleep, difficulty concentrating, emotional lability, irritability, reduced stress tolerance, insomnia, and a general sense of being 'worn out' or 'frayed.' The Eclectic physicians considered Avena sativa one of the most important remedies for this condition. Felter and Lloyd (1898) described oat as 'one of the best nerve-restoring agents in the materia medica' for 'nervous exhaustion, sexual neurasthenia, and the nervousness of chronic alcoholism.' Hoffmann (2003) considers milky oats the primary nervine trophorestorative for this indication. Treatment requires consistent use over weeks to months for full effect.
[2, 11, 13, 14]Convalescence and recovery from illness
Oat in all its forms — nourishing oatmeal, mineral-rich oat straw infusion, and milky oat tincture — is indicated during recovery from acute or prolonged illness, surgery, or any debilitating condition. The nutritive action provides foundational support during a period when the body is rebuilding. The nervous system is often particularly depleted during convalescence, and oat addresses this directly. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia (1983) lists oat as indicated for debility and convalescence. Weiss (1988) describes oat as a roborant (strengthening) nervine for recovery states.
[2, 11, 16]Addiction recovery and substance withdrawal support
Oat has a long history of use in supporting withdrawal from addictive substances, including tobacco, opiates, and alcohol. The Eclectic physicians specifically recommended Avena sativa for 'the nervous debility of chronic alcoholism and the morphine habit.' Anand (1971) published a study suggesting that an alcoholic extract of fresh green oat (Avena sativa) reduced cigarette smoking in a small trial of 26 heavy smokers (average reduction from 19.5 to 5.7 cigarettes/day), though the study had significant methodological limitations and has not been conclusively replicated. Connor and Connor (1975) failed to replicate the smoking cessation effect with dried oat preparations, reinforcing the importance of fresh plant preparations. The rationale for use in addiction recovery extends beyond any single constituent — the nervine trophorestorative action addresses the chronic nervous system depletion that accompanies addiction, while the nutritive action supports overall recovery. Modern practitioners use milky oat tincture as part of comprehensive addiction recovery protocols.
[8, 9, 11, 14]Cognitive function and mental performance
A proprietary green oat extract (EFLA 955, also known as Neuravena) has been studied for acute cognitive effects in healthy adults. Kennedy et al. (2011) conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study in 37 healthy adults aged 60-74, finding that a single dose of 1600 mg EFLA 955 significantly improved delayed word recall and executive function (letter cancellation speed) compared to placebo. Berry et al. (2011) demonstrated that a single dose of 800 mg EFLA 955 improved attention and concentration in healthy adults aged 40-65 performing a demanding cognitive battery (COMPASS). These are acute, single-dose studies and do not directly demonstrate long-term nootropic effects. The mechanism is proposed to involve inhibition of phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) and monoamine oxidase-B (MAO-B) by oat constituents.
[6, 7]Insomnia of nervous exhaustion (difficulty sleeping from depletion)
Oat is not a sedative in the conventional sense — it does not directly induce sleep the way valerian or passionflower might. Rather, it addresses insomnia that arises from nervous exhaustion and depletion: the individual who is 'tired but wired,' too exhausted to function but too depleted to sleep. By nourishing and restoring the depleted nervous system over time, milky oats helps re-establish the natural capacity for restful sleep. This is a long-term, constitutional approach to insomnia rather than an acute sleep aid. Often combined with acute sleep-promoting herbs (passionflower, valerian, hops) in formulas that address both immediate sleep difficulty and underlying nervous depletion.
[11, 13, 14]dermatological
Eczema, atopic dermatitis, and pruritus (topical)
Colloidal oatmeal (finely ground Avena sativa grain suspended in water) is FDA-approved as a Category I over-the-counter skin protectant for the temporary protection of minor skin irritation and itching due to eczema, rashes, poison ivy/oak/sumac, insect bites, and other causes. The mechanism involves multiple components: avenanthramides inhibit histamine-induced itch signaling and reduce inflammatory cytokine production; beta-glucans form a protective film and retain moisture; proteins and lipids support the damaged skin barrier; and the colloidal suspension provides pH buffering. Cerio et al. (2010) reviewed the pharmacological basis for the anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic effects of colloidal oatmeal. The German Commission E approved oat straw externally for 'inflammatory and seborrheic skin diseases, especially those accompanied by itching.' Oat straw baths are a traditional European remedy for eczema, hives, and generalized pruritus.
[1, 3, 18]Dry, irritated skin and minor skin wounds
Colloidal oatmeal-containing lotions, creams, and bath products are widely used for general dry skin care, neonatal skin care, and as adjunctive treatment for various dermatological conditions. The emollient and moisture-retaining properties support skin barrier repair. Used extensively in pediatric dermatology for infant eczema and cradle cap. Oat straw baths are a traditional hydrotherapy for generally irritated, dry, or inflamed skin.
[3, 18]Cardiovascular System
Hypercholesterolemia (elevated cholesterol — oat grain / beta-glucan)
The cholesterol-lowering effect of oat beta-glucan is supported by the highest level of regulatory and scientific evidence available for any herbal/food-based intervention. The FDA authorized a health claim in 1997: 'Soluble fiber from foods such as oat bran, rolled oats (oatmeal), and whole oat flour, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.' A daily intake of 3 g or more of oat beta-glucan is required. Whitehead et al. (2014) meta-analysis of 28 RCTs confirmed significant reductions in total cholesterol (mean -0.30 mmol/L), LDL cholesterol (mean -0.25 mmol/L), and non-HDL cholesterol. EFSA also approved a health claim for oat beta-glucan and cholesterol reduction. This indication applies to oat grain consumption (oatmeal, oat bran), not to oat straw or milky oat preparations.
[4, 10]Musculoskeletal System
Connective tissue weakness, brittle nails, and hair health
The high silicic acid content of oat straw supports connective tissue integrity, including the health of hair, skin, nails, and bones. Silicon is an essential trace element for collagen synthesis and cross-linking. Oat straw infusion, steeped for several hours to maximize silicic acid extraction, is traditionally recommended for brittle nails, thinning hair, and weak connective tissues. This is a long-term nutritive approach requiring consistent use over months. Often combined with Equisetum arvense (horsetail) and Urtica dioica (nettle) for connective tissue support.
[11, 16]Digestive System
Gastrointestinal irritation and nervous digestive complaints
The demulcent and nutritive qualities of oat soothe irritated gastrointestinal mucosa. Oatmeal has long been recommended as a bland, soothing food during gastritis, peptic ulcer disease recovery, and irritable bowel conditions. The beta-glucan fiber supports healthy bowel function and prebiotic activity. Oat straw infusion provides a gentle, mineral-rich fluid for individuals with sensitive digestive systems. The nervine tonic action addresses the nervous component of functional digestive complaints (nervous stomach, stress-related IBS symptoms).
[11, 16]Energetics
Temperature
warm
Moisture
moist
Taste
Tissue States
cold/depression, dry/atrophy
In traditional Western herbal energetics, oat is classified as neutral to slightly warm and distinctly moistening. It is sweet and bland in taste, reflecting its deeply nutritive and demulcent nature. The warming tendency is mild — oat is not a hot herb but gently increases metabolic warmth and vitality. The moistening quality is pronounced: oat nourishes dry, depleted tissues, replenishes vital fluids, and soothes dry mucous membranes and skin. This makes oat specifically indicated for dry/atrophy tissue states (dryness, depletion, wasting, withering) and cold/depression tissue states (deficiency, exhaustion, underfunction). It is the quintessential herb for the individual who is 'burnt out,' dried up, depleted, and exhausted — someone who has run themselves down through chronic stress, overwork, or prolonged illness. Unlike cooling nervines such as passionflower or skullcap (which settle excess heat and excitation), oat works by gently feeding and moistening depleted tissue. It is more akin to ashwagandha in its nourishing, building, restorative quality than to a calming sedative herb. Combines well with other nutritive and restorative herbs such as Withania somnifera (ashwagandha), Astragalus membranaceus, and Urtica dioica (nettle leaf) for deeply depleted constitutions.
Traditional Uses
European folk medicine and household remedy
- Oatmeal porridge and gruel as a convalescent food for the sick and debilitated
- Oat straw baths for rheumatism, gout, and skin conditions (eczema, itching, chilblains)
- Oat straw tea as a calming, nourishing beverage for nervous complaints and sleeplessness
- Oat straw stuffed into pillows as a folk remedy for rheumatic pain
- Oat grain poultices applied to boils, abscesses, and skin irritation
- Oatmeal water (strained oat porridge liquid) as a demulcent drink for sore throats and digestive irritation
"Oat has been a staple food and household remedy throughout Northern and Western Europe for centuries. The use of oat straw baths for skin conditions and rheumatic complaints is deeply embedded in Germanic folk medicine traditions and was formally recognized by the German Commission E. Oatmeal porridge and gruel served as the primary convalescent food in British and Northern European households, given to the sick, the elderly, and children as a nourishing, easily digestible food. The famous 18th-century physician Dr. Samuel Johnson may have mocked oats as 'a grain which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people,' but this Scottish reliance on oats reflected centuries of empirical recognition of its nutritive and restorative value. Oat straw tea was a common domestic remedy for nervousness, sleeplessness, and general debility across rural Europe."
Eclectic medicine (19th-early 20th century American)
- Nervous exhaustion and neurasthenia (primary indication)
- Nervous debility of chronic alcoholism and opium/morphine addiction
- Sexual neurasthenia and spermatorrhea (nervous sexual debility)
- Insomnia from worry, overwork, or nervous debility
- Convalescence from febrile and debilitating diseases
- Cardiac debility of nervous origin (weak heart from exhaustion)
- Chorea (involuntary movements) and tremors of nervous origin
- Night sweats and nervous perspiration
"The Eclectic physicians of America were among the strongest advocates for Avena sativa as a therapeutic agent. Felter and Lloyd, in King's American Dispensatory (1898), provide an extensive entry describing oat as 'a stimulant to the nerve centres' and 'one of the best nerve-restoring agents in the materia medica,' comparing its mode of action favorably to Phosphorus. They considered it specific for 'nervous exhaustion, sexual neurasthenia, and the nervousness of chronic alcoholism and of the morphine habit.' The specific indications given by the Eclectics included: 'Nervous debility; nerve-waste from worry or over-exertion, mental or physical; sleeplessness, especially in alcoholics and opium habitues; nervous palpitation of the heart; nervous headache of debility.' Ellingwood (1919) described it as a 'direct restorer of the nerve-centers' useful in 'general nervous debility, nervous exhaustion, the nervous debility of convalescence, and the nerve-weakness accompanying disorders of nutrition.' The Eclectics insisted on a fresh plant preparation (tincture of fresh green oat in the milky stage) for maximum therapeutic effect, a position that anticipated and aligned with modern clinical herbalism's emphasis on fresh milky oat tincture."
Ayurvedic and Unani medicine
- Oat grain as a nourishing food for convalescence and weakness
- Oat preparations for nervous debility and insomnia
- Oat as a demulcent for urinary and gastrointestinal irritation
"While oat is not a classical Ayurvedic herb (it is not native to the Indian subcontinent), it has been incorporated into traditional Indian medical practice, particularly in Unani medicine, as a nutritive and restorative agent. In Ayurvedic terms, oat would be classified as sweet (madhura rasa), heavy (guru), and unctuous (snigdha), reducing Vata dosha (the principle of dryness and nervous instability) and increasing Kapha (the principle of moisture and stability). This Ayurvedic energetic profile aligns perfectly with the Western energetic classification of oat as warming, moistening, and nutritive, indicated for dry/depleted and cold/deficient states. Modern Ayurvedic practitioners in India use oat grain and oat preparations as nutritive tonics and rasayanas (rejuvenative agents) for debility and nervous weakness."
[11]
Modern Western clinical herbalism (20th-21st century)
- Fresh milky oat tincture as the premier nervine trophorestorative for nervous exhaustion and burnout
- Oat straw nourishing infusion (long-steeped, 4-8 hours) for mineral replenishment, connective tissue support, and gentle nervous system nourishment
- Milky oat tincture as part of addiction recovery protocols (tobacco, alcohol, opiates)
- Oat straw in formulas for menopausal nervousness and bone health (silicic acid content)
- Foundation herb in recovery-focused formulas for chronic fatigue and post-viral debility
- Oat straw baths for childhood eczema and atopic dermatitis
"Modern Western clinical herbalists have built upon the Eclectic tradition to establish milky oats (fresh Avena sativa tincture) as perhaps the single most important nervine trophorestorative in the Western materia medica. David Hoffmann (2003) writes: 'Oats is one of the best remedies for feeding the nervous system, especially when under stress.' The distinction between fresh milky oat tincture (strongly trophorestorative) and dried oat straw infusion (nutritive and mineral-rich, but less trophorestorative) is considered fundamental by practitioners including Hoffmann, Rosemary Gladstar, and others. Susun Weed popularized the long oat straw infusion — an ounce of dried oat straw steeped in a quart of boiling water for 4-8 hours — as a mineral-rich nourishing tonic. Mills and Bone (2000, 2013) classify Avena as a nervine tonic, placing it among the key herbs for nervous system restoration. The emphasis on fresh milky oat preparations reflects a broader principle in herbal medicine: that certain plants require fresh processing to preserve their full therapeutic potential."
Modern Research
Acute cognitive effects of green oat extract (EFLA 955) in older adults
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study evaluating the acute cognitive effects of a wild green oat extract (EFLA 955/Neuravena) at doses of 800 mg and 1600 mg in 37 healthy adults aged 60-74, using the Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) computerized assessment battery.
Findings: The 1600 mg dose significantly improved delayed word recall accuracy (P = 0.04) and letter cancellation speed (a measure of executive function/attention, P = 0.03) compared to placebo. The 800 mg dose showed a trend toward improved performance on some tasks but did not reach statistical significance for primary outcomes. No significant effects on mood were observed. The onset of cognitive effects was observed within 1-6 hours post-dose.
Limitations: Single-dose, acute study — does not assess chronic or long-term effects. Small sample size (n=37). Specific population (healthy older adults 60-74). Proprietary extract (EFLA 955) — results may not generalize to other oat preparations. Only two doses tested. No mechanistic data in this study. Crossover design susceptible to period and carry-over effects.
[6]
Effects of green oat extract on attention and concentration in middle-aged adults
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study evaluating the effects of a single dose of 800 mg EFLA 955 (Neuravena) wild green oat extract on cognitive function in healthy adults aged 40-65, using the COMPASS (Computerised Mental Performance Assessment System) cognitive test battery.
Findings: A single 800 mg dose of EFLA 955 significantly improved performance on tasks assessing concentration and attention (Rapid Visual Information Processing speed and accuracy) compared to placebo. Effects emerged during a demanding multi-tasking framework. Numeric working memory and executive function tasks also showed trends toward improvement. No significant adverse effects reported.
Limitations: Single-dose study. Small sample size. Proprietary extract. Specific cognitive test battery used. Acute effects only — no information on sustained or cumulative benefits. The clinical meaningfulness of small improvements in computerized cognitive test scores for real-world function is uncertain.
[7]
Avena sativa extract and cigarette smoking reduction
Small clinical study evaluating the effect of a fresh alcoholic extract of Avena sativa (green oat) on cigarette consumption in 26 chronic heavy smokers (smoking 15+ cigarettes/day for at least 5 years). The oat extract was administered as tincture drops over 28 days.
Findings: Subjects receiving the oat extract showed a significant reduction in mean daily cigarette consumption from 19.5 to 5.7 cigarettes/day (P < 0.001). This reduction was maintained at 2-month follow-up. The placebo group showed no significant change. The author proposed that the effect might relate to modulation of dopaminergic pathways, though the mechanism was not investigated.
Limitations: Very small sample size (n=26). Poorly described methodology by modern standards. Not double-blinded in the modern sense. No information on blinding verification. Published in 1971 — predates modern clinical trial standards. The impressive magnitude of effect has raised questions about reproducibility. Connor and Connor (1975) failed to replicate the effect using a dried oat preparation, though the use of dried rather than fresh material is a potentially critical difference.
[8]
Failure to replicate smoking cessation effect with dried oat preparation
Attempted replication of Anand (1971) using a dried Avena sativa preparation rather than the fresh extract used in the original study, in chronic smokers.
Findings: No significant reduction in cigarette smoking was observed with the dried oat preparation. The authors concluded that either the original effect was not robust or that the specific preparation (fresh vs. dried) was a critical variable.
Limitations: Critical methodological difference from the Anand study: the use of dried rather than fresh plant material. If the active constituents (potentially avenacosides or other labile compounds in the milky latex) are destroyed by drying, a negative result with dried material does not disprove the effect of fresh preparations. Small study. Limited details available.
[9]
Bioactivity of avenanthramides: anti-inflammatory and anti-atherogenic effects
Study investigating the anti-atherogenic properties of avenanthramide-enriched extracts from Avena sativa using a hamster model of diet-induced atherosclerosis.
Findings: Avenanthramide-enriched oat extract significantly reduced atherosclerotic lesion development in hamsters fed an atherogenic diet compared to control. Avenanthramides, particularly avenanthramide C, inhibited smooth muscle cell proliferation and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine production (IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1) in vascular endothelial cells in vitro. The authors proposed that avenanthramides may contribute to cardiovascular protection through combined anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative mechanisms.
Limitations: Animal model — direct extrapolation to humans is uncertain. The avenanthramide-enriched extract used may not reflect concentrations achievable through dietary oat intake alone. In vitro anti-inflammatory data requires confirmation in human studies. The atherogenic diet model does not perfectly mirror human cardiovascular disease development.
[17]
Oat beta-glucan and cholesterol reduction: systematic review and meta-analysis
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials examining the effect of oat beta-glucan on blood cholesterol concentrations in adults with or without hypercholesterolemia.
Findings: Oat beta-glucan at doses of 3 g/day or more significantly reduced total cholesterol (mean reduction -0.30 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.39 to -0.20), LDL cholesterol (mean reduction -0.25 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.31 to -0.19), and non-HDL cholesterol. HDL cholesterol and triglycerides were not significantly affected. The cholesterol-lowering effect was dose-dependent and more pronounced in individuals with elevated baseline cholesterol. The mechanism involves beta-glucan increasing intestinal viscosity, reducing bile acid reabsorption, and thereby upregulating hepatic LDL receptor expression.
Limitations: Heterogeneity among trials in terms of beta-glucan source, dose, molecular weight, and food matrix. Most studies were relatively short-term (4-12 weeks). The effect applies specifically to oat beta-glucan (primarily from grain) and cannot be extrapolated to oat straw or milky oat preparations. Individual variability in response is substantial.
[10]
Colloidal oatmeal as skin protectant: review of pharmacological mechanisms
Review article examining the pharmacological basis for colloidal oatmeal's anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, and skin-protective effects, with particular focus on the role of avenanthramides.
Findings: Colloidal oatmeal exerts its skin-protective effects through multiple mechanisms: (1) Avenanthramides inhibit NF-kB activation and reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine release (IL-8, TNF-alpha), providing anti-inflammatory and anti-itch effects; (2) avenanthramides directly inhibit histamine-induced vasodilation and itch signaling; (3) beta-glucans and starches form a protective film, retain moisture, and reduce transepidermal water loss; (4) proteins and lipids support the damaged epidermal barrier; (5) saponins provide gentle cleansing without disrupting the skin barrier; (6) the overall preparation buffers skin pH toward physiological values. Clinical studies have confirmed efficacy in atopic dermatitis, radiation-induced dermatitis, and general pruritus.
Limitations: Narrative review, not systematic. Some mechanistic data is from in vitro studies that may not fully reflect in vivo conditions. The composition of colloidal oatmeal preparations varies between manufacturers, which may affect consistency of results.
[18]
Review of avenanthramide bioactivity and health benefits
Comprehensive review of the chemistry, bioavailability, and biological activities of avenanthramides, the unique phenolic compounds of oat (Avena sativa).
Findings: Avenanthramides are bioavailable in humans, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1-2 hours after ingestion. They demonstrate antioxidant activity 10-30 times greater than other phenolic compounds in oat. Biological activities include: anti-inflammatory effects (NF-kB inhibition, reduced cytokine production), anti-atherogenic effects (inhibition of smooth muscle cell proliferation, reduced endothelial adhesion molecule expression), anti-pruritic effects (inhibition of histamine release and itch signaling), and potential cancer-preventive effects (inhibition of proliferation in cancer cell lines). Bioavailability is sufficient for systemic effects at achievable dietary intakes.
Limitations: Many studies cited are in vitro or animal studies. The extent to which in vitro concentrations reflect achievable plasma concentrations in humans requires further clarification. Long-term clinical studies confirming health benefits are limited. The relative contribution of avenanthramides versus other oat constituents to whole-food health effects is difficult to parse.
[19]
Preparations & Dosage
fresh-plant-tincture
Strength: 1:2, 75-95% ethanol (fresh plant)
Harvest fresh milky oat tops during the brief milky stage when the unripe grain exudes white latex upon squeezing. Tincture IMMEDIATELY (within hours of harvest) in high-proof alcohol. Chop the fresh tops finely, pack firmly into a jar, and cover with 75-95% ethanol (190-proof grain alcohol is ideal). The ratio is typically 1:2 (1 part fresh plant by weight to 2 parts menstruum by volume). Macerate for 4-6 weeks, agitating daily. Press and filter. The resulting tincture should be a rich, green color with a slightly viscous, mucilaginous quality. This is the most therapeutically prized oat preparation in clinical herbalism.
3-5 mL (approximately 60-100 drops) 3 times daily. For acute nervous exhaustion or during withdrawal support: up to 5 mL every 3-4 hours. The dose is relatively generous compared to many other tinctures, reflecting oat's gentle and nutritive nature.
3 times daily for trophorestorative effect. May increase to 4-5 times daily during acute need.
Best used consistently over extended periods (4-12 weeks minimum) for full trophorestorative effect. Many herbalists recommend 3-6 months of consistent use for deep nervous system restoration. Safe for long-term use.
Under professional guidance. Children 6-12: 1-2 mL, 2-3 times daily.
THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PREPARATION DISTINCTION IN OAT HERBALISM. The fresh milky oat tincture is vastly preferred by clinical herbalists for nervous system restoration. The milky latex, containing steroidal saponins and other labile compounds, oxidizes and degrades rapidly — it cannot be preserved by drying. A dried oat straw tincture is NOT therapeutically equivalent to a fresh milky oat tincture. The Anand (1971) smoking cessation study used a fresh preparation; Connor and Connor (1975) failed to replicate using a dried preparation. The Eclectic physicians emphasized the fresh preparation. High-proof alcohol is necessary to preserve the fresh plant constituents; lower-proof menstrua do not adequately stabilize the milky latex. Commercially available fresh milky oat tinctures (from companies like HerbPharm, Gaia Herbs, Avena Botanicals) are preferable to DIY preparations unless the practitioner has direct access to fresh oats at the milky stage.
nourishing-infusion
Strength: 25-30 g dried oat straw per 1 liter water, steeped 4-12 hours
Place 25-30 g (approximately 1 ounce) of dried oat straw in a quart (approximately 1 liter) glass jar. Pour boiling water over the herb to fill the jar. Cover tightly and steep for a minimum of 4 hours, ideally overnight (8-12 hours). This extended steeping time is essential for extracting the full mineral content, particularly silicic acid, calcium, and magnesium. Strain through a fine mesh strainer, squeezing the herb to extract all liquid. The resulting infusion will be dark, rich, and mineral-dense — quite different from a standard short-steeped tea. Refrigerate and drink within 24-48 hours.
1 quart (approximately 1 liter) daily, divided throughout the day. Drink at room temperature or gently warmed (do not reboil).
Daily. Best used consistently as a nourishing daily beverage.
Safe for indefinite long-term use. Herbalists typically recommend daily use for at least 2-3 months to see the full mineral-nourishing effects.
Under professional guidance. Children 6-12: 1-2 cups (250-500 mL) daily.
This preparation method was popularized by herbalist Susun Weed and has become standard practice among modern Western herbalists. The long steeping time distinguishes a nourishing infusion from a standard tea — short steeping (5-15 minutes) extracts only a fraction of the mineral content. The resulting liquid is rich, dark, and slightly viscous. The taste is mild and pleasant — slightly sweet, grassy, with a mineral quality. This is primarily a MINERAL AND NUTRITIVE preparation, not a trophorestorative in the same way as fresh milky oat tincture. It provides silicic acid for connective tissue support, calcium and magnesium for nervous system and bone health, and gentle nourishment. Excellent as a daily tonic beverage during convalescence, menopause, pregnancy (considered safe), and any state of depletion.
Infusion (Tea)
Strength: 1-3 g dried oat straw per 250 mL water
Pour 250 mL of boiling water over 1-3 g (approximately 1-2 teaspoons) of dried oat straw. Cover and steep for 10-15 minutes. Strain.
One cup (250 mL), 2-3 times daily.
2-3 times daily.
May be used long-term.
Children 6-12: half adult dose under professional guidance.
A standard tea-length infusion of oat straw is a pleasant, mild beverage with gentle calming properties, but it extracts only a fraction of the mineral content available through the long nourishing infusion method. Suitable as a gentle daily nervine tea. The German Commission E monograph for internal use describes this standard preparation. Can be combined with other nervine and tonic herbs in blends.
bath-preparation
Strength: 100 g dried oat straw per bath; or 1-2 cups colloidal oatmeal
Add 100 g of dried oat straw to 3 liters of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Strain the decoction and add to a full bath. Alternatively, place oat straw in a muslin bag and hang it under the running bathwater. For colloidal oatmeal baths: add 1-2 cups of colloidal oatmeal (finely ground oat grain) directly to warm bathwater and stir to disperse evenly. Soak for 15-20 minutes.
100 g oat straw per bath, or 1-2 cups colloidal oatmeal. 2-3 baths per week or as needed.
2-3 times weekly for chronic skin conditions. Daily if needed during acute flares.
Continue as long as needed. Safe for long-term regular use.
Reduce quantities proportionally for smaller baths. Colloidal oatmeal baths are widely used in pediatric dermatology for infant eczema — use 1/3 to 1/2 cup per baby bath.
German Commission E approved indication: external use of oat straw in baths for inflammatory and seborrheic skin diseases, especially those accompanied by itching. Oat straw baths are a traditional European hydrotherapy for eczema, hives, pruritus, chicken pox, and general skin irritation. Colloidal oatmeal baths are FDA-approved for temporary relief of itching and minor skin irritation. The combination of anti-inflammatory avenanthramides, demulcent beta-glucans, and skin-protective lipids makes oat baths one of the safest and most effective topical treatments for pruritic skin conditions.
colloidal-oatmeal-topical
Strength: FDA Category I skin protectant. Commercial products contain 0.007-5% colloidal oatmeal.
Colloidal oatmeal is oat grain ground to an extremely fine powder (particle size typically < 150 micrometers) that remains suspended in water. Available commercially in lotions, creams, cleansers, and bath products. For DIY: grind whole oats in a blender or food processor to a very fine powder; test by adding to water — true colloidal oatmeal should make the water milky and feel silky, not gritty. Apply colloidal oatmeal lotion or cream to affected skin areas as needed.
Apply topically as needed. For baths: 1-2 cups per full bath. For paste/poultice: mix with water to form a thin paste and apply to affected area, leave 15-20 minutes, rinse gently.
As needed. Lotions and creams may be applied multiple times daily.
Safe for continuous long-term use.
Safe for use in infants and children. Widely used in pediatric dermatology.
Colloidal oatmeal is one of very few botanical preparations to achieve FDA monograph status as an over-the-counter drug ingredient. It is classified as a Category I skin protectant, meaning it is 'generally recognized as safe and effective' (GRASE). Indicated for temporary protection and relief of minor skin irritation and itching due to: eczema, rashes, poison ivy/oak/sumac, insect bites, and other causes. The Aveeno brand (originally 'Avena') was founded in 1945 specifically to market colloidal oatmeal preparations and remains a leading brand in this category.
Safety & Interactions
Class 1
Can be safely consumed when used appropriately (AHPA Botanical Safety Handbook)
Contraindications
Oats do not contain gluten (gliadin) per se, but they contain a related prolamin protein called avenine. The majority of celiac patients (approximately 88-92%) tolerate pure, uncontaminated oats safely. However, a minority of celiac patients (estimated 8-12%) mount an immune response to avenine itself. Additionally, commercial oat products are frequently cross-contaminated with wheat, barley, or rye during growing, transport, or processing. For celiac patients, only certified gluten-free oats (grown, transported, and processed separately from gluten-containing grains) should be used. This concern applies primarily to oat grain products. Oat straw and milky oat tincture preparations may carry lower risk of gluten cross-contamination, but should still be sourced from certified gluten-free oat crops if the patient has celiac disease. For oat straw infusions and milky oat tinctures used at typical herbal doses, the amount of avenine exposure is minimal.
True IgE-mediated allergy to oat is rare but has been documented, primarily in children. Symptoms may include urticaria, angioedema, gastrointestinal symptoms, or rarely anaphylaxis upon ingestion or topical contact. Patients with known oat allergy should avoid all oat preparations including topical colloidal oatmeal products.
Drug Interactions
| Drug / Class | Severity | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Oral medications taken concurrently with oat bran or high-dose oat beta-glucan (General — applies to all oral medications) | minor | Oat beta-glucan, as a viscous soluble fiber, may slow gastric emptying and reduce the rate (though generally not the extent) of absorption of co-administered oral medications. This is a class effect of soluble fibers, not specific to oat. |
| Insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents (Antidiabetic medications) | minor | Oat beta-glucan slows carbohydrate digestion and glucose absorption, potentially producing modest blood glucose-lowering effects that could be additive with antidiabetic medications. |
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
likely safe
Lactation
likely safe
PREGNANCY: Oat is a common food with a long history of safe consumption during pregnancy. Oat grain (oatmeal) is widely recommended as a nutritious food during pregnancy. Oat straw nourishing infusion is considered safe during pregnancy by most herbal authorities and is commonly recommended for its calcium, magnesium, and mineral content. Milky oat tincture at standard doses is generally considered safe during pregnancy, though data specific to concentrated tincture preparations during pregnancy is limited. There are no known teratogenic or uterotonic effects. LACTATION: Oat is widely consumed as food during lactation without concerns. Oatmeal is traditionally and popularly recommended as a galactagogue (to increase breast milk production), though controlled clinical evidence for this effect is limited. Oat straw infusion is considered safe during lactation. No known adverse effects on nursing infants.
Adverse Effects
References
Monograph Sources
- [1] German Commission E (Bundesinstitut fur Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte). Commission E Monograph: Avenae stramentum (Oat Straw) — Positive for external use; Avenae herba (Green Oat Herb). Bundesanzeiger (Federal Gazette) (1987)
- [2] British Herbal Medicine Association. British Herbal Pharmacopoeia: Avena sativa. British Herbal Medicine Association, Bournemouth (1983) : 30-31
- [3] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Skin Protectant Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use; Final Monograph. 21 CFR Part 347. Federal Register (2003) ; 68 : 33362-33381
- [4] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Food Labeling: Health Claims; Soluble Fiber from Certain Foods and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease. 21 CFR Part 101. Federal Register (1997) ; 62 : 3584-3601
- [5] ESCOP (European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy). ESCOP Monographs: Avenae herba / Avenae fructus. Thieme, Stuttgart (2009)
Clinical Studies
- [6] Kennedy DO, Jackson PA, Forster J, Khan J, Grothe T, Perrinjaquet-Moccetti T, Haskell-Ramsay CF. Acute effects of a wild green-oat (Avena sativa) extract on cognitive function in middle-aged adults: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subjects trial. Nutr Neurosci (2017) ; 20 : 135-151 . DOI: 10.1080/1028415X.2015.1101304 . PMID: 26618715
- [7] Berry NM, Robinson MJ, Bryan J, Buckley JD, Murphy KJ, Howe PR. Acute effects of an Avena sativa herb extract on responses to the Stroop Color-Word test. J Altern Complement Med (2011) ; 17 : 635-637 . DOI: 10.1089/acm.2010.0450 . PMID: 21711202
- [8] Anand CL. Effect of Avena sativa on cigarette smoking. Nature (1971) ; 233 : 496 . DOI: 10.1038/233496a0 . PMID: 4940436
- [9] Connor J, Connor T, Marshall PB, Reid A, Turnbull MJ. The pharmacology of Avena sativa. J Pharm Pharmacol (1975) ; 27 : 92-98 . DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.1975.tb09415.x . PMID: 235643
- [10] Whitehead A, Beck EJ, Tosh S, Wolever TM. Cholesterol-lowering effects of oat beta-glucan: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr (2014) ; 100 : 1413-1421 . DOI: 10.3945/ajcn.114.086108 . PMID: 25411276
Traditional Texts
- [11] Hoffmann D. Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT (2003) : 536-537
- [12] Mills S, Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine. Churchill Livingstone, Edinburgh (2000)
- [13] Bone K, Mills S. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine, 2nd Edition. Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier, Edinburgh (2013)
- [14] Felter HW, Lloyd JU. King's American Dispensatory (18th edition, 3rd revision): Avena. Ohio Valley Company, Cincinnati (1898)
- [15] Ellingwood F. American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy: Avena Sativa. Ellingwood's Therapeutist, Chicago (1919)
- [16] Weiss RF. Herbal Medicine (translated from Lehrbuch der Phytotherapie, 6th German edition). Beaconsfield Publishers, Beaconsfield, England (1988)
Pharmacopeias & Reviews
- [17] Sur R, Nigam A, Bhatt D, Bajaj A, Dhilly M, Bhatt DK. Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Arch Dermatol Res (2008) ; 300 : 569-574 . DOI: 10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x . PMID: 18461339
- [18] Cerio R, Dohil M, Jeanine D, Magina S, Mahe E, Stratigos AJ. Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice. J Drugs Dermatol (2010) ; 9 : 1116-1120 . PMID: 20865844
- [19] Meydani M. Potential health benefits of avenanthramides of oats. Nutr Rev (2009) ; 67 : 731-735 . DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00256.x . PMID: 19941618
- [20] Collins FW. Oat phenolics: avenanthramides, novel substituted N-cinnamoylanthranilate alkaloids from oat groats and hulls. J Agric Food Chem (1989) ; 37 : 60-66 . DOI: 10.1021/jf00085a015
- [21] Hostettmann K, Marston A. Saponins (Chemistry and Pharmacology of Natural Products). Cambridge University Press, Cambridge (1995)
Last updated: 2026-03-01 | Status: published
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