Oatstraw is a by-product of the commercial cultivation of oats, the
cereal grain most of us are familiar with cooked in water or milk and
served for breakfast. The straw, or leafy stalk, of this ancient grain,
is an important agricultural crop that serves as green fertilizer,
fodder for grazing animals and as bedding for horses and cattle. At one
time, oatstraw was a popular stuffing for mattresses and chairs.
Also known as wild oats, oatstraw is very nutritious, providing
significant amounts of soluble fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals.
Reputedly, horses become energized and high spirited after grazing on
the plant. In fact, this is where “sowing your oats” comes from, an
expression that refers to wild behavior in people.
