Alfalfa is the dried leaf belongig to the pea family.it is available as dried leaf, tablets, capsules, extracts, health drinks, tea, and in other forms.The name alfalfa means "Father of all Foods." It has been called the King of plants . Alfalfa leaf has been used in tea and dietary supplements to help increase appetite and vitality, reduce water retention, and as a stimulant for digestion and bowel action. It is a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and preventing absorption of cholesterol from the diet. Its use for loss of energy due to indigestion, dyspepsia, anemia, loss of appetite, and poor assimilation began in the early 1900s with American physicians who specialized in herbal medicine. Dr. Ben A. Bradley of Hamlet, Ohio, wrote in 1915: I find in Alfalfa, after about seven years' clinical tests in my practice and on myself, a superlative restorative tonic.... It rejuvenates the whole system by increasing the strength, vim, vigor, and vitality of the patient." It is a good source of carotene (Vitamin A) and a little known vitamin – Vitamin K, the blood clotting vitamin which has been known to help peptic ulcers. Has eight of the essential amino acids and the highest chlorophyll content of any plant. Alfalfa has been thoroughly studied as an animal feed but not as an herbal medicine for humans. Animal studies suggest it can prevent high cholesterol in animals on high-fat diets. Compounds in the plant may decrease intestinal absorption of cholesterol and reduce atherosclerotic plaque. Alfalfa is high in protein and contains vitamins A, B1, B63 B 12, C, E, and K1, along with the minerals calcium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. Cautions Moderate use of alfalfa products is not associated with side effects. A case of allergic reaction (from contamination with grass pollen) in alfalfa tablets has been reported. Eating alfalfa seeds or sprouts has been linked to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a condition characterized by inflammation of connective tissue. In two instances, alfalfa sprouts caused the recurrence of SLE in individuals who had been treated for the condition. Those diagnosed with SLE should avoid alfalfa products. Consuming large quantities of the seeds has also produced reversible blood abnormalities. The compound responsible for ill effects is canavanine. Not to be taken during pregnancy and also contraindicated in autoimmune diseases or when using blood thinning or anticoagulant medication such as warfarin. A medical practitioners advice should be sought before eating massive alfalfa. Prevents tooth decay and helps rebuild decayed teeth, contains natural fluorides. Modern technology has developed a way to extract and preserve chlorophyll before it degrades so that we may have its many benefits. The most common starting material is freshly cut alfalfa. The high beta-carotene content of alfalfa acts to strengthen the epithelial cells of the mucous membranes of the stomach and could be responsible for it reported effects on ulcers. Its blood-purifying properties have been attributed to the chlorophyll content, but is probably due to other factors. The most popular use of alfalfa in herbology is in arthritis formulas. Primarily as a detoxifier of the blood. The high molecular weight alcohols (octacosanol) help to reduce cholesterol and serum lipids while the coumarin derivatives provide an antothrombotic effect. The flavonoids relax the smooth muscles and alkaloids reduce blood sugar levels. These systemic effects are accompanied by the regulating effects the saponins have on colonic flora. Contains bitter compounds that enhance the efficiency of digestion by increasing appetite and the assimilation of nutrients. These compounds also lower blood pressure and balance estrogenic hormones. Alfalfa is an excellent herbal source of vitamin A, vitamin C, niacin, and vitamin B-1. The herb has been used to treat debility, anorexia, arthritis, weak digestion, hypertension and gout. Lowers cholesterol and reduces risk of heart disease. Also acts as an appetite stimulant, digestive aid, anti-carcinogen, breath freshener, anti-fungal, tonic, anti-haemorrhagic. Contains saponins which may aggravate anemia. You can find it at local grocery store, or grow from seeds. Capsules also available at herbal stores. Caution - Seeds are toxic and should not be consumed. Seeds can cause miscarriage. Leaves generally considered safe, but should be avoided by anyone with anemia.

Alfalfa recipes