Alfalfa

Biological Name: (Medicago sativa L.)

Family: Leguminosae; (beans and peas)

Other Names:

Alfalfa, Chilean Clover, Buffalo Grass, Father of All Foods (Al-fal-fa), Buffalo herb, lucerne, purple medic.

 

Active Compounds:

• Up to 50% protein,
• Beta carotene, chlorophyll and octacosanol.
• Saponins, sterols, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, acids,
• Vitamins (A, B1, B6, B12, C, D, E, K, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, folic acid,
• Amino acids, sugars,
• Minerals (Ca, K, P, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu),
• Trace elements and other nutrients

Uses based on scientific evidence:

High cholesterol
Reductions in blood levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein ("bad cholesterol") have been reported in animal studies and in a small number of human cases. High-density lipoprotein ("good cholesterol") has not been altered in these cases. Although this evidence is promising, better research is needed before a firm conclusion can be reached (MedlinePlus).

Atherosclerosis (cholesterol plaques in heart arteries)
Several studies in animals report reductions in cholesterol plaques of the arteries after use of alfalfa. Well-designed research in humans is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn (MedlinePlus).

Diabetes
A small number of rat studies report reductions in blood sugar levels following ingestion of alfalfa. Human data are limited, and it remains unclear if alfalfa can aid in the control of sugars in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia (MedlinePlus).

 

Traditional Uses in Herbal Medicine (some of these uses have not yet been scientifically tested and verified):

• Immune disorders:
  Allergies, Breast cancer, Cervical cancer, Hay fever, Rheumatoid arthritis.
  
• Digestive disorders:
  Appetite stimulant, Gastrointestinal tract disorders, Indigestion, Stomach ulcers.
  
• Lung disorders:
  Asthma, Cough.
  
• Skin disorders:
  Boils, Insect bites, Skin damage from radiation, Wound healing.
  
• Uro-genital disorders:
  Bladder disorders, Diuresis (increasing urination), Kidney disorders, Prostate disorders.
  
• Nutritional uses:
  Antioxidant, Convalescence, Nutritional support, Scurvy, Vitamin supplementation (vitamins A,C,E,K).
  
• Gynaecological / Mestrual / Pregnancy:
  Increasing breast milk, Estrogen replacement, Menopausal symptoms, Uterine stimulant.
  
• Cardio-vascular disorders:
  Blood clotting disorders.
  
• Hepatic / Liver problems:
  Jaundice.
  
• Other:
  Convalescence, gum healing after dental procedures. (MedlinePlus)