Medicago sativa Fabaceae Also called Lucerne

Reaching a height of around 60cm, alfalfa is a perennial herb that grows wild on the edges of fields. It bears purple-blue flowers in summer and its seedpods are coiled spirals. Besides its medicinal use, it is cultivated as livestock Jeed and its young sprouts are enjoyed in salads.

Parts used

Leaves

The leaves are harvested up to five times every growing season, just as the plant starts to flower.

They are used to make tinctures and dry or liquid extracts.

Constituents

Alfalfa is an excellent source of dietary nutrients for the body including protein, calcium and vitamins. It also contains saponins, which dissolve fats, coumarins, phenols, tannins and unsaturated fatty acids. Alfalfa is rich in phytoestrogens that mimic the action of the female hormone, oestrogen.

Medicinal uses

Due to its oestrogenic effects, alfalfa regulates periods, and stimulates milk-flow in breastfeeding women. Experiments carried out by clinical nutritionists in 1982 showed that eating alfalfa helped to protect monkeys that were on a high cholesterol diet from atherosclerosis. They also proved the effectivenes~ of alfalfa in decreasing blood cholesterol levels.

In 1990, researchers in Northern Ireland showed that alfalfa affects the metabolism of glucose and, like coriander, eucalyptus and juniper; it also reduces excessive thirst and blood sugar levels.

Alfalfa's fortifying effects are well known and, due to its ability to stimulate the appetite, the plant is often given to induce weight gain and also as a restorative during convalescence. Alfalfa can help to reduce exhaustion and nervous agitation. In India, alfalfa is used in poultices to treat boils; in Colombia it is used to treat coughs. It may have a therapeutic effect on gastric ulcers, and has been used in the treatment of kidney stones.

Cautions

Alfalfa has shown no signs of toxicity to date

Do not use to treat lupus (a chronic inflammatory disease that causes a scaly red rash on the face). . Not recommended for people with other autoimmune disorders or rheumatic conditions.

If pregnant or breastfeeding, do not consume larger amounts than you would eat in a normal meal.

Alfalfa may induce sensitisation to sunlight, so when using it, it is wise to avoid sunbathing.

Do not exceed prescribed doses.

Preparation and Dosages

For Internal Use

• TO TREAT exhaustion, nervous agitation, convalescents, low body weight in children TINCTURE (1:4 in 25% alcohol) Put 20 drops into a glass of water. Drink three times a day after meals.

If Symptoms Persist Consult a Doctor

Cultivation

• Plant in a sunny position in a light, well-drained soil. The blue flowers are rich in nectar and attract bees.