Oats (Avena sativa): Nourishing Skincare and Herbal Medicine

Introduction to Oats (Avena sativa)

We've all heard of oats as breakfast porridge but here is a little look at their properties in skincare and medicine! Oats are a highly regarded botanical for both skincare and herbal medicine, known for their soothing, anti-inflammatory, and deeply nourishing properties. Used for centuries to calm irritated skin, support the nervous system, and promote overall well-being, oats—especially oat straw and flowering tops—are a must-have herbal ally for beauty, health, and vitality.

One of my quick go to breakfasts is porridge made with organic oat milk , I add a tablespoon of milled seeds from DhillonsFlourMill.com with chia, pumpkin and flaxseed, and a spoonful of wheatgerm from yourhealthstore.co.uk I add frozen berries or chopped dried fruits, a combination of prune, apricot and apple is my favourite at the moment from the fruit and veg shop in Dulverton that I picked up on holiday, and sometimes a dollop of tahini or cashew nut butter, that goes so well if you add a little cacao as well!

Avena sativa - Oats

Active Constituents and Medicinal Actions

Oats owe their therapeutic properties to a range of beneficial compounds, including:

• Beta-glucans – Deeply hydrating, soothing, and immune-boosting

• Avenanthramides – Potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds

• Silicic Acid & Minerals (Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Silica) – Strengthen skin, hair, and connective tissues

• Saponins – Natural cleansers that help remove impurities from the skin

• Polysaccharides – Help retain moisture and support skin barrier function

• Alkaloids & Flavonoids – Calm the nervous system and reduce stress

Medicinal Actions

Oats provide a range of benefits for internal and external health, including:

• Soothing & Hydrating for Skin – Helps relieve dryness, eczema, and irritation

• Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant – Protects against environmental damage

• Nervine & Adaptogenic – Supports the nervous system and reduces stress

• Strengthens Hair & Nails – Provides essential minerals for growth

• Digestive Support – Aids in gut health and soothes inflammation

  
  

External Uses of Oats (Skincare & Haircare)

1. Skincare Benefits

• Relieves Itchy, Dry, or Irritated Skin: Oats are renowned for soothing conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and rashes.

• Moisturizes & Protects: Oat beta-glucans form a protective barrier, locking in hydration.

• Gently Exfoliates: Oat saponins naturally cleanse and remove dead skin cells.

• Calms Redness & Sensitivity: Ideal for sunburns, allergic reactions, or sensitive skin.

2. Hair & Scalp Health

• Strengthens Hair: Oats provide silica and minerals that improve hair texture and strength.

• Balances Scalp Moisture: Helps soothe dry, itchy scalps and prevent dandruff.

• Adds Shine & Softness: Oat rinses leave hair silky and manageable.

How to Use

• Oatmeal Bath Soak: Add ground oats to warm bath water to soothe irritated skin.

• Oat Facial Mask: Mix oat flour with honey and yogurt for a calming skin treatment.

• Oat Hair Rinse: Steep oats in water and use as a conditioning rinse for soft, shiny hair.

  
  

Internal Uses of Oat Flowering Tops (Herbal Medicine)

1. Nervous System & Emotional Well-being

• Restores the Nervous System: Oat tops act as a nervine, helping with stress, anxiety, and burnout.

• Supports Deep Sleep: Helps promote restful sleep and relaxation.

• Balances Mood & Energy: Ideal for those experiencing nervous exhaustion or depression.

2. Digestive & Cardiovascular Support

• Supports Gut Health: Oats soothe inflammation in the digestive tract.

• Heart-Healthy: Oat beta-glucans help lower cholesterol and support circulation.

• Gently Detoxifying: Helps remove toxins and supports liver function.

How to Use

• Oatstraw Infusion: Steep oat tops in hot water overnight for a mineral-rich tonic. Oat flowering tops feature in our Chamomile and Orange Tea!

• Oat Tincture: Take a few drops daily to nourish the nervous system.

• Oatmeal Porridge: A classic way to benefit from oats’ nutrients internally.

  
  

DIY Oat Skincare & Herbal Recipes

1. Nourishing Oat & Honey Face Mask

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons finely ground oats

• 1 tablespoon raw honey

• 1 tablespoon yogurt

Instructions:

• Mix ingredients into a paste and apply to clean skin.

• Leave on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

3. Oatstraw Nervous System Tonic

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried oat tops (Avena sativa)

• 4 cups boiling water

Instructions:

• Steep overnight and strain.

• Drink 1–2 cups daily for nervous system support.

Our Oat Bath Soak with Magnesium and Sea Salt and organic rose, lavender and essential oils

Oats (Avena sativa) are a powerful natural remedy for skincare, hair health, and holistic wellness. Whether used externally to hydrate, soothe, and nourish the skin, or taken internally to calm the nervous system, support digestion, and improve overall well-being, oats are an invaluable herbal ally. Checkout the website for more oaty products, including our oat m*lk soaps, and Cacao drinks!

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Kate x

Medical Herbalist and Founder of The Drovers Daughter

How do you incorporate oats into your skincare or wellness routine? Share your favorite uses in the comments below!