Is Alfalfa Effective for Allergies?

Alfalfa has been christened the father of all plants for a reason. It is one of the most nutritious herbs that has been around, and helps with a lot of health conditions. Recent developments online indicate that it may be good for allergies. However, there is no medical research to back this claim and its increasing popularity as an anti-allergen is based on user experiences. Finally, its benefits and effects may vary among different individuals, and it should be taken only after consulting a doctor regarding your specific condition. While understanding whether alfalfa is effective for all kinds of allergies is rather difficult, there are certain reasons why people have attained allergy relief after taking alfalfa supplements. These reasons have been discussed here.

How does Alfalfa Help Treat Allergies?

Alfalfa has a multitude of vitamins and minerals that are absorbed by its deep penetrating roots which go 20 feet below the soil. Moreover, it has a huge chlorophyll content that is beneficial for anyone who consumes this herb. The properties of alfalfa specific to allergy relief have been enlisted here.

• It is known to have antihistamine properties that help provide relief from allergies that cause a runny nose, itchiness, as well as continuous sneezing.
• It is also known to strengthen the immune system thereby increasing resistance to allergens and the side effects of exposure to them.

Those of you seeking relief from allergies but are sick of prescription drugs (because of the side effects they cause, such as drowsiness and weakness) may resort to this natural method of treating allergies. Alfalfa may be consumed in the form of nutritional supplements, tea, seeds or sprouts; whatever you find yourself comfortable with.

When is Alfalfa Unsafe?

As beneficial as it is, there are certain circumstances under which you should refrain from consuming this herb.

• It is known to activate the immune system, and if you already suffer from an autoimmune condition such as multiple sclerosis, you should avoid its intake.
• You should keep in mind that if you are allergic to grass or mold, it may not be a good choice as you may develop an allergy to this herb itself. If you do happen to take it and realize that your symptoms are worsening, you should discontinue its intake immediately.
• Finally, the USFDA has stated that children and the elderly should not consume alfalfa as its sprouts and seeds contain a variety of bacteria that can affect their health further and weaken it.
• Excessive consumption of this herb can also cause thinning of the blood and anemia. If you already have a blood clotting problem, you should avoid its consumption.

So it can easily be established that the relationship between alfalfa and allergies may differ from person to person. You may have to take it and then figure whether it suits your body or not. You should also know however, that alfalfa can benefit your body apart from allergies too. It helps treat joint pains caused by conditions such as arthritis, stomach and digestive problems (because it has over eight types of digestive enzymes), bloating and water retention, headaches, lowers cholesterol levels, and generally helps detoxify the body.

It cannot be stated enough that you must consult your doctor before you add any different medicine or food to your diet, particularly if you are already suffering from other health conditions. Do not compromise with your health under any circumstance by following online reports or other such details. Since this claim is not backed by medical research, and since the USFDA does not regulate the production of herbal medicines, you should be as careful as possible when consuming these.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informational purposes only and does not intend to make any claims regarding the effectiveness of alfalfa for allergies.