Herbs

Alfalfa Herb

Alfalfa Herb Picture

Botanical Name: Medicago sativa

A legume, alfalfa is a member of the pea family and is widely grown in Europe, North and South America, Asia and Australia. It grows upto 50 cms in height. It has rich green alternate leaves, purplish flowers and adapts itself to widely varying conditions of soil and climate.

Benefits of Alfalfa

The main benefit of alfalfa is as a food supplement. The seeds and sprouts of the plant are an excellent source of beta carotene, vitamins C, D, E, K and several of the B-vitamins. Alfalfa is especially also rich in minerals including iron, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, magnesium and silicon.

Alfalfa has been found to reduce heart diseases and prevent fluid retention. Alfalfa acts as a tonic, stimulant, appetizer and diuretic, and can assist in the relief of urinary disorders, arthiritis and high blood pressure. It also helps the growth of hair to a remarkable extent. Alfalfa juice, as a rich source of chlorophyl, is useful in respiratory disorders and discomforts, particularly those relating to the sinuses and the lungs.

Alfalfa supplements, sprouts and other methods of uses

Alfalafa is available in tablet form and as sprouts. It is generally a very safe supplement. The seeds are useful in the form of sprouts. They are delicious and nourishing in salads and soups as well as in sandwiches. Alfalfa can be used in the form of juice extracted from its leaves. It is also used extensively in the form of tea, which is made from seeds as well as the dried leaves of the plant. The tea is prepared by boiling alfalfa seeds in an enamel pan with the lid on, for half an hour. It is strained, squeezing or pressing The seeds dry, and allowed to cool. Cold or hot water and honey maybe added to taste before use.

Alfalfa Sprouts Picture

Taking juice of alfalfa with carrot juice, intensifies the benefits of each juice and is highly recommended.

Alfalfa Side Effects

Alfalfa can aggravate systematic lupus erythematosis, an inflammatory disease.

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