30+ Oats

First cultivated in the Middle East, oats spread further north where they flourished in colder, wetter climates. Oats became a staple food in Scotland and, traditionally, they were used to protect people from faeries. People would carry oats in their pockets, put it on their children's heads at All Hallows and scatter oatcake around the house of a newborn.

The high, starchy glutinous content means they can be used as glue additives. They are also used in body washes, shampoos and creams. Oat humectants, antioxidants, lipids and vitamin E all support skin health. Oat poultices can be soothing for eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Oats are a good source of vitamin E, B vitamins and fibre. They are also a source of calcium and iron. Phytonutrients in oats are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. They support skin and cardiovascular health and healthy blood sugar levels.

Oats are traditionally a breakfast food, e.g. porridge, muesli, granola and overnight oats. They are used in bannock, bread, flapjacks, cakes, cookies, pancakes and energy balls. They can also be added to soup, patties and burgers.