Benefits of Alfalfa
Medicago sativa
Many of the benefits of alfalfa have been known for centuries. Alfalfa is a plant grown across the world mainly to feed livestock. It has been used by the Chinese since the sixth century to treat many health conditions and has become a common ingredient in modern herbal remedies.
The plant is richer in minerals than other food plants because its roots grow deep into the soil. The roots can penetrate as far as 125 feet into the subsoil and absorb calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. Alfalfa can contain up to 10 times more of these minerals than other food grains.
Alfalfa is rich in vitamins A, B6, C, D, E, K, P, and U. It contains alkaloids, isoflavones, coumarins, sterols plus eight essential enzymes.
It is available in tablet form, capsules, seeds, liquid extract and dried leaves. The seeds and leaves are used to make a norishing tea. Fresh alfalfa sprouts can be included in blended vegetable drinks or smoothies. Many people enjoy eating the fresh sprouts in salads and sandwiches.
Alfalfa is used to:
- Promote strong bones
- Rebuild decayed teeth
- Freshen the breath
- Improve appetite and increase weight
- Relieve indigestion
- Relieve constipation
- Lower bad cholesterol (LDL)
- Cure peptic ulcers
- Reduce swelling by acting as a mild diuretic
- Lower blood pressure
- Stimulate growth of connective tissue
- Encourage the healing of wounds
- Increase the flow of milk in nursing mothers
To make alfalfa tea pour one cup boiling water over two or three teaspoons of dried alfalfa seeds or leaves. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes and then strain. This tea can be enjoyed several times throughout the day.
For a good diuretic tea combine three parts alfalfa, two parts couchgrass, and one part wild carrot. Pour one cup boiling water over one or two teaspoons of this mixture. Let steep for 10 minutes and strain. Drink 1/2 cup three times a day.
Even though there are multiple benefits of alfalfa, there are some people who should not take it. Alfalfa should be avoided by pregnant women because in animal studies it has been shown to tighten the uteris. Since alfalfa has blood clotting properties, it should not be consumed by anyone who is on blood thinning medication such as Wayfarin or even aspirin. Anyone with a urinary tract infection or diarrhea should avoid alfalfa.
Some people may experience episodes of gas the first week of taking alfalfa. If this occurs, cut back on the amount consumed for a few days.
Another concern is mothers who are nursing and have a baby with jaundice. Alfalfa taken by the mother will increase the amount of time it takes for the jaundice to go away.
