What vitamins and minerals are in oatstraw?

December 18, 2025 •

3 min read

Used for centuries as a natural remedy, oatstraw is surprisingly rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall wellness. This unassuming green stalk is a powerhouse of nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and B-vitamins, making it a valuable addition to many herbal tonics.

Quick Summary

Oatstraw is a nutrient-dense herb derived from the green stalks of the oat plant, packed with beneficial vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica. It is often consumed as a tea or infusion for its restorative properties, which can support the nervous system, bone health, and skin vitality.

Key Points

Nutrient-Rich Profile: Oatstraw contains a wide array of vitamins and minerals, including B-vitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and silica.
Nervous System Support: Its B-complex vitamin content and gentle nervine properties help soothe the nervous system, reduce stress, and combat fatigue.
Bone and Connective Tissue Health: Oatstraw is especially rich in calcium, magnesium, and silica, which are all crucial for building and maintaining strong bones, skin, and hair.
Antioxidant Benefits: Vitamins C and E, along with other antioxidants, help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Best Consumed as an Infusion: To maximize the extraction of its minerals, oatstraw is most effective when steeped for several hours or overnight in a strong infusion.
Generally Safe: Oatstraw is considered safe for most people, but those with severe gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should source certified gluten-free versions due to the risk of cross-contamination.
Taste and Versatility: The mild, slightly sweet flavor of oatstraw tea makes it a versatile ingredient that blends well with other herbs.

A Closer Look at the Vitamins in Oatstraw

Oatstraw, the dried green stalk of the Avena sativa plant, is a nutritional treasure trove that has been a staple in herbal medicine for generations. When harvested at the right time, during its 'milky' stage, the plant is rich with vital nutrients. Among its most notable components are a variety of vitamins, which contribute to its reputation as a nourishing and restorative herb.

B-Complex Vitamins

Oatstraw contains several B-complex vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), and B6 (pyridoxine). These vitamins are crucial for energy production, nerve function, and supporting the nervous system, which is why oatstraw is considered a calming nervine. During times of high stress or fatigue, these B vitamins help replenish a depleted system and nourish the nerves.

Antioxidant Vitamins

Beyond the B-complex, oatstraw also provides antioxidant vitamins such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Vitamin E is particularly important for its role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, while Vitamin C is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. The presence of these antioxidants supports overall cellular health and helps the body combat free radical damage.

The Rich Mineral Content of Oatstraw

While its vitamin profile is impressive, the mineral content of oatstraw is arguably its most celebrated feature. A strong overnight infusion can be a particularly rich source of these bioavailable minerals, making it a potent tonic for various bodily systems.

Calcium: As one of the best anti-osteoporosis herbs, oatstraw is rich in calcium, a mineral essential for strong bones and teeth. Regular intake helps support bone density and is especially important for women during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Magnesium: This mineral works synergistically with calcium, and oatstraw contains significant amounts of it. Magnesium is vital for nerve and muscle function, and its presence in oatstraw contributes to the herb's relaxing and calming effects.
Silica: This trace mineral is a key component for the health of connective tissues, including skin, hair, and nails. The high silica content in oatstraw helps to strengthen these tissues, which is why it is often included in remedies for skin conditions.
Iron: Essential for blood health and energy levels, iron is another mineral found in oatstraw. It aids in replenishing a system depleted by stress and fatigue.
Potassium and Zinc: Oatstraw also contains potassium and zinc, which are involved in numerous metabolic processes and immune functions.

How to Extract Nutrients from Oatstraw

To get the most out of oatstraw's vitamins and minerals, the method of preparation is key. A simple, short-steeped tea will offer some benefits, but a long, overnight infusion is far more effective at extracting the nutrient-dense components. The longer steeping time allows for a more potent medicinal and nutritive brew.

Comparison of Herbal Teas: Oatstraw vs. Others


Feature	Oatstraw	Chamomile	Green Tea	Ginger Tea
Primary Benefit	Nutritive tonic, nervous system support	Calming, anti-anxiety	Antioxidant, stimulating	Digestive aid, anti-inflammatory
Vitamin Profile	Rich in B-complex, C, E, K	Contains trace vitamins	Contains Vitamin C	Contains some vitamins
Mineral Profile	High in Calcium, Magnesium, Silica, Iron	Minimal mineral content	Lower mineral content	Contains minerals like potassium
Best For	Chronic stress, bone health, skin health	Insomnia, relaxation	Energy boost, anti-inflammation	Nausea, digestion

Conclusion: A Nutritive and Restorative Tonic

In summary, oatstraw is much more than just a byproduct of oat grain production. It is a potent and gentle herbal tonic that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Its rich profile of B-complex vitamins, antioxidants, calcium, magnesium, and silica makes it an excellent ally for anyone looking to support their nervous system, strengthen bones, and enhance skin health. Whether consumed as a long, nutrient-rich infusion or incorporated into a herbal blend, adding oatstraw to your regimen can provide deep and sustained nourishment for the body and mind. While it is generally well-tolerated, individuals with severe gluten sensitivity or celiac disease should ensure they use a certified gluten-free product due to potential cross-contamination. Embracing this humble herb can be a simple yet profound step towards nurturing overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oatstraw tea is used as a nutritive tonic to support overall health. Its high mineral content and soothing properties make it beneficial for the nervous system, stress reduction, bone health, and nourishing skin and hair.

To make a potent oatstraw infusion, steep about one ounce of dried oatstraw in a quart jar of boiling water. Cover and let it sit for at least 4-8 hours or overnight. Strain the plant material and drink the liquid hot or cold.

Yes, oatstraw is considered a nervine, which means it has a calming and nourishing effect on the nervous system. Its B-vitamins and magnesium content help to soothe frazzled nerves and replenish the body during times of stress and fatigue.

While oatstraw itself does not inherently contain gluten, there is a risk of cross-contamination with other gluten-containing grains during harvesting and processing. Individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity should seek products that are explicitly certified as gluten-free.

Many herbalists consider oatstraw a safe and nourishing herb for pregnancy due to its rich mineral content, particularly calcium. However, pregnant individuals should always consult a healthcare practitioner before consuming any herbal teas or supplements.

Oatstraw is the dried green stalk of the oat plant, harvested before the grain ripens. Milky oats refers specifically to the immature seed tops harvested when they exude a milky substance. While both are nutritive, milky oats are generally considered more active for acute nervous system support, while oatstraw is a long-term restorative tonic.

Yes, oatstraw's high silica content is excellent for skin and hair health, as it supports connective tissues. A strong infusion can be consumed or added to a bath to help soothe irritated, dry, or itchy skin.