We are all familiar with the delights of a good morning oatmeal--personally, my weekdays aren't the same without it!  Lately, I've brought the joys of oatmeal into my tea blending with oatstaw which gives me the same satisfying nourishment a good bowl of oatmeal does and that comforting taste of earthy grains.

Oatstraw is the leftover part of the oat plant that gets harvested and dried after the grain has been removed.  It's great for the skin and works well as the base for a soothing bath or as a tincture to soothe irritated skin.  Of course, it also makes an excellent tea!  You can find oatstraw at your local health foods store, herb store, or online at Rose Mountain Herbs.

I love drinking this at work because it keeps me fueled and energized through the day more naturally than sugars or caffeine do.  It regulates blood sugar, reduces cholesterol, and is chock full of vitamins A, D, and E; zinc; and magnesium.  Its flavor is slightly sweet in a grassy way. 

Ingredients:

1 heaping tablespoon oatstraw

To brew, pour 8 oz hot water over oatstraw (in strainer or tea bag) and let steep for 3-5 minutes.  Remove strainer and enjoy!  Makes one serving.