Scientific Name: Medicago sativa
Leguminosae
AKA: Chilean Clover, Father of All Foods, Buffalo Grass, Buffalo Herb, Purple Medic, Lucerne
Parts Used: Leaves - Aerial parts - sprouting seeds
Active Compounds: A good source of protein, it contains up to 50% in addition to having a good amount of beta carotene, octacosanol, and chlorophyll. Contains amino acids, saponins, isoflavins, sugars, sterols, acids, minerals (Ca, K, P, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu), coumarins, alkaloids, porphyrins, and vitamins (A, B1, B6, B12, C, D, E, K, niacin, biotin, folic acid, pantothenic acid).
Background: Darius, King of Persia, reportedly brought Alfalfa to Greece when he was in a battle over Athens. The Chinese have used it for centuries to aid in the digestive system and to treat certain ailments associated with the digestive process.
Ancient Indian doctors also used the herb to treat internal digestive ailments, and also used it for pain relief for arthritic patients. Early Americans used it in much the same way, but also found it useful for treating scurvy and urinary problems, in addition to menstrual symptoms.
Applications: Nutrition/Cardiovascular/Astringent
Nutrition: Many people use Alfalfa for nutritional needs, since it's been known to stimulate the appetite. Very ill patients often need it because it is easily assimilated and full of nutrients. The ashes of the leaves are 99% pure calcium.
Menstruation: With numerous estrogenic qualities, women over the years have used Alfalfa to relieve pain and symptoms associated with their period.
Astringent: Alfalfa is used topically to help heal infections after surgery, or caused from bed sores.
Cardiovascular: Known to reduce cholesterol and aid in preventing heart disease and stroke, Alfalfa has been studied recently to for its ability to help diabetic patients who do not respond well to insulin.
Description:
Found throughout the year, the herb is located in fields in both cultivated and wild areas of Asia, Europe, and North Africa. It is harvested in summer months after having grown to approximately 1 to 3 feet. It has bluish-purple or yellowish flowers that grow from a tall, erect and smooth stem. The seed pods appear spiraled.
Dosage:
Capsules: To treat high cholesterol or diabetes, you should take 2 capsules of alfalfa powder with each meal.
Topical Juice: To treat infections, use blender to blend raw alfalfa spouts and either drink 4-6 ounces or apply directly to the site of the infection.
Safety:
Do not use if you have an autoimmune disease.
More Bulk Herbs and Spices Information:
Alfalfa leaf
Aloe
Angelica Root
Alkanet
African Bird pepper
Anise Seed
Allspice
For educational purposes only
This alfalfa information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This alfalfa information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
