Stop reaching for the caffeine and sugary snacks. You can skip the crashing and burning that these pick-me-ups cause and instead find lasting energy that'll keep you going throughout the day with just a little oat straw.

 

What is oat straw?

 

Oat straw comes from green oats, also known as Avena sativa. It has been used to support brain health since the Middle Ages, and its proponents say it can reduce the risk of heart disease, increase energy, reduce anxiety and improve physical and possibly even sexual performance.

 

How does it work?

 

While its exact mechanism of action isn't known, oat straw is believed to have several functions. Studies suggest oat straw increases brainwaves called alpha-2 waves, which are more prominent during wakefulness. It may also increase nitric oxide and suppress inflammatory cytokines in artery walls, which can increase blood flow to the brain and help you feel more alert. In fact, one study showed that volunteers who consumed oat straw performed significantly better on cognitive tests.

 

What else can it do?

 

Legend has it that the phrase "sow your wild oats" actually refers to oat straw! A couple of studies have shown that oat straw may also increase libido and enhance sexual experience – at least for men and possibly also for women.

 

Where can I get oat straw?

 

You can buy oat straw in multiple forms, including in a hay-like form, as a powder, an extract or as a supplement. It usually costs $5 to $15. Look for it at your local health foods store or online.How should I eat it?Oat straw is simple and easy to incorporate into your diet. You can sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of powdered oat straw on oatmeal, or make your own energy drink by combining two teaspoons of powdered oat straw, water, lemon and ginger. The simplest way to take it is as a supplement – try 1,500 mg per day.