Oats (Avena sativa) are a whole grain. The hulled kernels, called groats, are the common edible form. Oat straw, made from the leafy tops and stems, appears in teas and liquid extracts.
Whole oats provide dietary fiber, mainly beta-glucan, which aids digestion and supports healthy cholesterol levels. You can eat oatmeal or add oats to foods for general nutrition, heart health, and digestive support. Oat straw extracts are sometimes taken for stress support or as a mild nerve tonic. Products vary widely in strength, so follow label directions or consult a practitioner.
Key caution: Oats contain gluten-like proteins. People with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should choose certified gluten-free oats. Food amounts of oats have no known major drug interactions.