Benefits of Alfalfa

Alfalfa, which is primarily known as an important forage plant is equally popular for its health benefits and medicinal properties too. This plant (Medicago sativa) belongs to the pea family and is also known as lucerne or lucerne grass in some parts of Asia. It is a flowering plant that can grow up to one meter in height and produces small purple flowers in clusters. Alfalfa plant has a very deep root system, that can extend to around 4.5 meters. It is because of this feature, that these plants are found to be drought resistant. It is said that, due to the deep root system, alfalfa plant can absorb many such minerals that are not usually found in the surface soil of the earth.

This makes this plant special and hence the name 'alfalfa', which means the father of plants. This plant was named by Arabs, who recognized its benefits, at a very early stage. They found that their horses became strong and fit, after consuming alfalfa and so, included this plant in their diet for its nutritional value. Being highly nutritious, alfalfa is used as herbal medicine, since centuries. It has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicines and ayurvedic medicines, for a variety of aliments.

Alfalfa Nutrition

Even though, alfalfa is mainly grown as a forage crop, it is equally healthy for humans, as it is packed with nutrients. In case of humans, this herb is used in the form of sprouts, tender stems, dehydrated leaves, etc. Alfalfa dietary supplements are also available in the form of tablet, powder or tea. This herb is rich in minerals, like, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and iron. It also contains B vitamins, vitamin C, E and K in fair amounts. Apart from that, alfalfa contains natural form of fluoride, protein, trace minerals, fiber, essential fatty acids and antioxidants too. Intake of this herb is said to be beneficial for absorption of protein, fats and carbohydrate. It is also said to be a blood purifier.

Alfalfa Benefits

Now, you know that alfalfa is packed with nutrients and is very widely used for its health benefits. It has been used as a herbal medicine for a very long time and the traditional Chinese and Indian medicine used it for treating digestive disorders and a variety of other ailments. The following are some of the alfalfa health benefits.

• Alfalfa is said to be beneficial for controlling blood cholesterol, by eliminating bad cholesterol from the body. This prevents plaque formation on the arterial walls, thereby reducing the chances of heart diseases and stroke.
• Benefits of alfalfa include its ability to reduce blood sugar levels. So, this herb is often recommended for diabetics, especially, for those who do not respond to insulin.
• The diuretic property of this herb is one of the important alfalfa benefits. It is found to be effective in eliminating water retention in the body, thereby preventing edema.
• This herb is also found to be useful in alleviating menopause symptoms, as some of the alfalfa constituents act like estrogen.
• It is also used for treating asthma and other respiratory problems.
• It is also used for treating digestive disorders and for detoxification. It is also said to be effective in relieving muscle and joint stiffness and pain.

Now, you have a basic idea about alfalfa benefits. Alfalfa consumption is mainly, in the form of sprouts and supplements. Alfalfa tea is said to be good for strengthening the immune system, to aid digestion, blood purification, etc. However, consumption of raw alfalfa may lead to Salmonella Saintpaul infection which can be caused due to contamination of the alfalfa seeds. It is always advisable to follow the instructions of a qualified herbalist for consuming alfalfa in any form. You may also seek the opinion of your doctor before starting the treatment. It should always be taken in moderate quantities, as overdose may cause breakdown of red blood cells, which is a serious condition. It should be avoided by kidney transplant patients, pregnant and breastfeeding women and those who are taking anti-rejection drugs for kidney transplant patients.