Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a flowering plant, also known as as lucerne in the UK, Australia and New Zealand and as lucerne grass in south Asia. Alfalfa has been used as a medicine for over 1,500 years. It contains protein and vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. It also contains calcium, potassium, carotene, iron, and zinc. Traditionally, Chinese physicians used alfalfa to treat several conditions. They used young alfalfa leaves to treat disorders related to the digestive tract and the kidneys. Ayurvedic physicians used the leaves for treating poor digestion. alfalfa was also believed to be helpful towards people suffering from arthritis and water retention. Today Alfalfa is used as a homeopathic medicine.

Alfalfa is suggested for treating anemia, diabetes, arthritis, to extend appetite and contribute towards weight gain, as a diuretic for increased urination, for indigestion and bladder disorders. Alfalfa can also be used as an estrogen replacement in order to increase breast milk and to mitigate premenstrual syndrome, as a dietary supplement, and to lower blood cholesterol levels.

There are many health benefits of Alfalfa. It is believed to:

• Cure kidney problems, and relieve fluid retention and swelling.
• Cure auto-immune disorders.
• Heal arthritis.
• Nourish the digestive, skeletal, glandular and urinary system.
• Cleanse the blood, liver and bowel.
• Lower cholesterol levels.
• Reduce blood sugar levels. It is condidered a natural treatment for Diabetes.
• Prevent strokes.
• Heal whooping cough.
• Help dissolve kidney stones.
• Treats Hair loss and Balding.
• Possible side effects of Alfalfa.

Possible side effects of Alfalfa

Excessive consumption of alfalfa could cause red blood cells breakdown, an extremely serious situation. Also read about Alfalfa during pregnancy and breast-feeding.