Alfalfa

Discover the Health Benefits of Alfalfa Supplements

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the legume family, though it is usually considered an herb. Alfalfa is cultivated in many countries around the world but is said to have originated in south-central Asia. Its name is rooted in Arabic, meaning "father of all foods". Indeed, alfalfa packs quite a nutritional wallop, containing over 300 nutrients and phytonutrients, including beta carotene, vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B6, C, E, and K. It's also one of the most mineral-rich foods supplying ample amounts of calcium, iron, copper, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and sulfur. In addition, alfalfa is an excellent source of protein since 50% of its total weight is protein (essential amino acids).

Typically consumed either in sprout form or as a supplement, it has been popular for a very long time, and with good reason. Thanks to its rich nutritional profile and high antioxidant content, alfalfa helps protect the body’s cells and tissues against free radical damage. In fact, the antioxidant activity of alfalfa is said to be one of the highest in the legume family. This is why it is often used to help prevent oxidation-associated diseases including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cognitive decline. Last but certainly not least, alfalfa contains coumestrol, a compound that mimics the activity of estrogen, which is why alfalfa is often recommended to help prevent/slow down the loss of bone density and promote bone remineralization. Alfalfa (and coumestrol) are also frequently used as a substitute for hormone therapy in the treatment of menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.

Comprehensive Health Advantages of Alfalfa

• Alkalinizes the Body
• Boosts Antioxidant Defences
• Natural Deodorant
• Relieves Menopausal Symptoms
• Supports Detoxification

How Alfalfa Supports Detox and Nutritional Health

Low-calorie, nutrient-dense alfalfa may be recommended to enhance overall nutritional profile, as well as to treat hypercholesterolemia thanks to its concentration in saponins, bitter compounds that have been shown to bind cholesterol to bile salts, thus reducing serum cholesterol levels (by up to 17% according to research). Because of its high-fibre content, it may also be used to help regulate glycemia by slowing the absorption of glucose in the intestines, to better manage diabetes and other blood sugar metabolism conditions. Alfalfa may also be suggested to detoxify the body, cleanse the digestive system, as well as treat water retention, urinary tract disorders, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections (UTI’s). Thanks to the presence of phytoestrogens, alfalfa is also of considerable benefit to tempering menopausal symptoms such as irregular periods, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, sleep issues, mood changes, as well as weight gain and slowed metabolism. Last but certainly not least, it is a potent galactagogue that may be used by nursing mothers to stimulate breast milk production.

Guide to Choosing Alfalfa Supplements

Alfalfa supplements are readily available in herbal tea form, as well as in tablets, liquid tinctures, and powder form, in a variety of potencies. The dosing range for alfalfa supplements can be anywhere from 5 to 10g, three times daily, according to the conditions being addressed.

Final Considerations for Using Alfalfa Supplements

Alfalfa pairs especially well with other detoxifying and cleansing plants such as burdock, sarsaparilla, dandelion, elderberry, cilantro, and mullein, as well as with black cohosh, wild yam, red clover, ginseng, and skullcap for menopausal symptom support.

Alfalfa is considered safe and well-tolerated, though certain people may experience side effects due to the high fibre content, primarily gastrointestinal side effects including gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea. Because of its estrogenic effects, alfalfa should not be used by those with hormone-sensitive cancers or a family history of such cancers.

Alfalfa can also interact with certain medications such as anticoagulants, diabetes medications, hormonal contraceptives, immunosuppressant drugs, and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Speak to your doctor before use if you are taking any of these medications.