Oats
| Oats in TCM:Explore the properties of Oats according to Chinese
Nutrition and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):
Temperature: warm
Channels: LU, LI, ST, SP, HT, KD
Flavors: sweet
Tonifies: qi, blood
Special Properties:
circulates qi
In terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Oats are known for their ability to tonify qi and blood. They also help to circulate qi and calm the spirit.
In general the ancient Chinese medical texts cite that oats enter the Lung, Spleen, Stomach, Heart, Large Intestine, and Kidney. The flavor of Oats is sweet, and oats are considered to be warm in temperature. Oats are rich in silicon and phosphorus, and help to renew the bones and connective tissues.
Oats can restore nervous and reproductive systems, strengthen the spleen-pancreas, build and regulate qi, strengthen cardiac muscles, and remove cholesterol from the digestive tract and arteries.
Oats can be used to treat dysentery, diabetes, hepatitis, nervous and sexual debility, indigestion, swelling, and abdominal bloating.
Oat water acts as an internal antiseptic when drunk regularly. A poultice of oats can be used to relieve itching, and also helps to heal and beautify the skin. To prepare oat water simmer 2 tablespoons of oat groats (or flakes) in 1 quart of water for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Longer cooking time will increase the thickness of the water and add nourishing properties. Strain before drinking at room temperature.
"Oats in any of its more common forms - oatmeal, steel-cut oats, or whole oat groats - are also ideal for preventing infections and contagious diseases, especially in children (HWWF 469)."
Editors Note: Caution - Oats are warming and may cause some digestive inflammation especially in cases with the diagnosis of heat in the large intestine. Use cautiously in cases in cases where digestive discomforts such as gas and bloating are experienced.
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