| How does it work?
Fresh oats contains high levels of vitamin B, minerals and other nutrients. These are recognised to be important and beneficial for the proper functioning of the nervous system. The balance of constituents present in oats probably accounts for the restorative benefits in depression, states of debility and exhaustion — and the traditional use as a nerve tonic. Avena Sativa also contains indole alkaloids, the most active of which is known as gramine. These have been shown to relax smooth muscle and exert a sedative action on the nervous system. It is of benefit to those suffering from chronic anxiety, hyperactivity and insomnia. Why is it needed?
The nervous system controls and integrates all the activities of the body - not only on a physical level but also psychologically.
The system may become debillitated and fatigued through factors such as stress, shock and faulty nutrition. In these circumstances a nerve tonic plays a useful role, strengthening, feeding and revitalising the system. As Avena Sativa is such a gentle sedative, it may be used to calm fractious children. It has been successfully used for the clinical treatment of hyperactivity in children, in conjunction with appropriate dietary changes. Avena Sativa has also been used to treat addiction - the most common form in our modern society is the dependence on nicotine. Withdrawal of this, or any other drug, would draw on both the psychological and physical reserves of the individual. Avena sativa (oat) has been used for centuries as both a food and a remedy. Alfred Vogel knew that when the oats are just breaking into flower and the seeds beginning to form, the plant is richest in its active ingredients. The oats used in this tincture were grown organically and harvested at the time of optimum potency. | 
