You might be wondering if Alfalfa is good for you. A common forage crop cultivated in the US and Canada for livestock, It is most often used for grazing, hay, and silage. Also commonly called Lucerne, it is also incredibly beneficial for humans.
A flowering plant of the pea family, Alfalfa resembles clover, with clusters of purple flowers. It is also considered a herb. Alfalfa has lots of iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, trace minerals, as well as Vitamin K.
Antioxidant-rich, alfalfa is a super immune booster. It not only helps to remove toxins from the body, but it also helps stabilize blood sugars, detoxify the blood, lower cholesterol, and much more.
Alfalfa is a cheap, powerful, and effective herb that should be in every household’s Herbal Apothecary.
It is always best to buy a good quality herb when taking for medicinal purposes. I recommend Mountain Rose Herbs. They are passionate about organic agriculture and ship to the US and Canada. Unfortunately, they do not ship internationally at this time.
You can also harvest your own. If you have access to good quality, organic alfalfa, then pick and dry your own.
What is Alfalfa good for in the body?
Detoxifies Blood and Kidneys
The potency of the nutrients and minerals in Alfalfa makes it helpful in detoxing the blood and the kidneys. It is best to refrain from drinking coffee if you are taking this to support your kidneys.
Helps in Arthritis and Rheumatism
Because Alfalfa is an anti-inflammatory, it can also help to relieve symptoms associated with Arthritis and Rheumatism. It has traditionally been one of the best home remedies for this.
Helpful for Allergies
Alfalfa can be helpful in reducing symptoms of seasonal allergies such as hay fever. It has antihistamine properties and has been very helpful for a lot of people.
Scientific proof of these claims is lacking, but if you suffer from severe allergies, Alfalfa is a cheap remedy to try. Take four or five tablets three or four times daily.
Dissolves Kidney Stones
Alfalfa is only one way that you can help your body break up kidney stones. Vitamins A, C, E, and zinc help to dissolve kidney stones, and Alfalfa powder, tablets, and sprouts all contain these nutrients. Alfalfa sprouts are very alkaline and will help your body break up kidney stones.
Prevents Tooth Decay
Alfalfa actually contains natural fluoride and may be helpful in preventing tooth decay. There are even claims of it helping to rebuild decayed teeth. The body is capable of repairing itself when supplied with the right nutrients.
A blood thinner (so don’t use with other blood thinners)
If you need a blood thinner, use Alfalfa instead of the common blood thinners. Talk to your doctor about using Alfalfa, and go back and do blood work.
Studies prove that Alfalfa is an effective blood thinner without any of the side effects.
Increases Milk Supply in Breastfeeding Mothers
Not only does Alfafa increase, sustain, and produce good quality breast milk, it can also be helpful in reducing symptoms of Morning Sickness during pregnancy.,
Lowers Cholesterol
Alfalfas ability to lower cholesterol is the best-studied benefit to date. Not only can alfalfa help you to go off your cholesterol medication, but you will also have fewer side effects.
While more studies are needed, Alfalfa should be your first go-to if you get diagnosed with high cholesterol. It has been proven to help 2 out of ten patients, but as with everything, do your own research, talk to your doctor, and make an informed decision.
You can take alfalfa in tablet form, tea, or sprout the seeds. If you don’t care for the taste of sprouts, then take tablets.
Are Alfalfa Sprouts Good For You?
Alfalfa sprouts are not only good for you, but it is also great at strengthening your body. Sprouting is remarkable,, all you need are seeds and water. But you have to be careful you don’t add too much water, as that can cause mold and rot.
Take care to thoroughly drain your seeds. Alfalfa seeds have a high concentration of many minerals and are antioxidant-rich. Sprouting them makes them accessible to your body.
They will boost your immune function. Several practitioners are recommending large quantities of sprouts to help heal cancers. Alfalfa has many fresh enzymes that feed and heal the body.
Is Alfalfa An Antinflammatory?
This study reveals that the above-ground parts of alfalfa have antiinflammatory parts, and may be useful to prevent inflammation in the body.
Are Alfalfa Tablets Safe During Pregnancy?
Alfalfa tablets are not only safe during pregnancy, but it can also help prevent hemorrhaging during childbirth.
It raises Vitamin K levels in pregnant women, which is essential for proper clotting. Drinking a pregnancy tea that contains Alfalfa is very healthy for pregnant women.
Who Should Not Take Alfalfa?
Those with an autoimmune disease should not take Alfalfa, such as lupus or cases of gout.
Using Alfalfa in large doses could cause the breakdown of red blood cells, anemia, or photosensitivity. Also, postpartum moms should wait at least a week before taking Alfalfa, as it increases milk production and could cause too much engorgement.
Diabetics should also be careful with taking alfalfa because it can cause low blood sugar.
Conclusion
Alfalfa is a nutrient powerhouse and is considered safe for a variety of health ailments. Full of beneficial nutrients, it will help to support your body. The benefits of alfalfa are many.
References: