Alfalfa Supplement

Alfalfa is actually a forage plant but these days, alfalfa is gaining popularity in all parts of the world because of its health benefits and medicinal properties. Not only the sprouts, tender stems and dehydrated leaves of this medicinal herb, but also the dietary supplements of alfalfa are being used to treat various medical conditions. Alfalfa supplements are available in the form of tablets, powder, extracts, liquid or tea.

Health Benefits

Alfalfa is packed with saponins, vitamins A, C, D, E, B6 and K and it is also high in chlorophyll. It is also rich in niacin, biotin, folic acid, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. It contains lots of amino acids and several other nutrients. Alfalfa supplements are used to treat a number of ailments. Regular intake of these supplement helps reduce the level of uric acid in the body. People with gout may find alfalfa supplement helpful as it eases the joint pain. The supplement can be effective in bringing down fever, improving urine flow and treating jaundice, fluid retention, kidney stones, and night blindness.

Alfalfa exhibits antibacterial, antioxidant and antifungal properties which can prove to be beneficial for those who suffer from diabetes, ulcers, kidney diseases, bladder problems, prostate conditions, asthma, and hay fever. It helps improve your digestive health. It also promotes weight loss. Alfalfa supplement helps stabilize blood pressure levels. This supplement is also used for detoxification of the body. By eliminating toxins from the body, it helps boost your energy level significantly. It reduces fatigue and increases your stamina. The supplement promotes fast healing of intestinal ulcers, gastritis and liver disorders. It helps get rid of bladder stones fast. Those undergoing cancer treatments may take alfalfa dietary supplement for fast recovery from the side effects of cancer treatment. These supplements are also taken for lowering cholesterol levels. They also promote blood clotting.

In spite of several health benefits of alfalfa supplements, you should follow instructions of your physician regarding the dosage. These nutritional supplements should be taken in limited quantity only. Overdose of the supplement can result in side effects, some of which are given below.

Side Effects

While healthy individuals may not notice any side effects of alfalfa supplements, taking these supplements during pregnancy is considered unsafe. The uterus may start contracting, resulting in miscarriage or early labor. Alfalfa sprouts contaminated with Salmonella and E. coli can cause diarrhea. Sprouting alfalfa seeds at home is very easy. Homemade alfalfa sprouts can be added to various foods. The supplements may sometimes lead to lupus like symptoms. Prolonged use or overdose may cause muscle pain leading to increased fatigue. It may also cause abnormal immune system function and kidney problems. Alfalfa supplements may interfere with some of the routine medications and may lead to toxicity.

People with certain medical conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus should not take alfalfa supplements or alfalfa in any other form. Those diagnosed with high cholesterol, diabetes should take the supplements carefully, after consulting a doctor. These supplements exhibit diuretic properties so should not be taken by those who are already on diuretics. They might increase the pressure on kidneys as too much of water will be thrown out of the body. As these supplements may interfere with birth control pills, they may cancel the effect of pills and increase chances of pregnancy.

There are several such conditions; wherein consumption of these supplements can prove to be harmful. You also need to avoid taking certain other supplements if you want to take alfalfa supplements. So one should consult a physician before opting for the supplements. The physician can help select the best alfalfa supplement and can also tell you about the correct alfalfa dosage. When used carefully, and in moderation, these supplements can provide you with a range of benefits.