Avena sativa
The botanical name for oats. Avena sativa extracts are often added to “male enhancement” and testosterone-boosting bodybuilding supplements, due to claims that they reduce SHBG (sex-hormone binding globulin) and increase libido. Unfortunately, there is zero credible science behind these claims.
Nonetheless, oat extracts have therapeutic uses. Oats are rich in beta-glucan: a soluble fiber that can help reduce serum cholesterol and improve postprandial glucose/insulin response. Oats also contain polyphenolic compounds known as “avenanthramides”, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Avenathramides may also increase nitric oxide (NO) production (which would lend credence to the aphrodisiac claims), although this has not been confirmed by studies in animals or humans.
