Also Know As - Medicago sativa, lucerne, holy-hay, buffalo herb and trefoil.
Overview - First discovered by the Arabs, who dubbed alfalfa, this valuable plant, as the "father of all foods." According to an early Oriental herbarium, alfalfa tops the list of 896 plants cited, and originated in Persia. Alfalfa (M. sativa), a native of Asia, didn't reach North America until around 1850 or 1860. Native Americans adapted alfalfa quickly for human use, as well as for animals. In England and South Africa it is called Buffalo herb.
Medicinal Uses - Alfalfa leaf is sometimes used to support healthy lactation in women, due to its high nutritional profile. It is also a valuable plant to use for helping to optimize female hormonal balance. It contains weak acting phytoestrogens (plant estrogens), which are useful in either hypo or hyper-estrogenic states. By competing for receptor site bonding with the stronger estrogens, the weaker ones keep the negative effects of excess estrogen in check, but if there is deficient estrogen, provide it in a mild form as well as dense nutrients. There is also some compelling research that indicates Alfalfa leaf may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Additionally the rich mineral content could promote the healthy growth of hair, skin and nail tissue, while also providing a source of antioxidants.
Active Constituents - Flavones, isoflavones, sterols, and coumarin derivatives, protein and vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K, calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc.
Parts Used - Seeds and all the aboveground parts of the plant as a bulk herb for teas.
Suggested Preparations and Dosages - The usual dose of alfalfa for tea is 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup, steeped in boiling water for 10 to 20 minutes.
Precautions - Alfalfa has been known to aggravate lupus and other auto-immune disorders. Avoid alfalfa is you have an auto-immune problem.
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