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Alfalfa

Medicago sativa

Alfalfa is more than just the best Little Rascal, its a nutritional, therapeutical, and medicinal plant that has been consumed for centuries. Alfalfa is utilized from tip to top, taking advantage of the aerial parts, seeds, and sprouting seeds. Each part used serves its purpose, but, generally speaking, they treat symptoms relating to menopause and menstruation, and high cholesterol. So, now you know, the next time you reach for breakfast, you can skip the bowl of Cheerios and reach for alfalfa instead.

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For thousands of years, alfalfa has been eaten for animal feed and human consumption. One of the earliest records, dated 550 BCE, shows that in an attempt to conquer Athens, the King of Persia brought alfalfa to Greece. It was cultivated for centuries for its nutritional and medicinal properties.

Alfalfa is a perennial herb growing to nearly 3 feet tall. It boasts 3-pronged leaves, vibrant flowers ranging in color from yellow to indigo, and helix-shaped seed pods. Alfalfa is grown as a fodder crop in temperate climates, and is harvested in summer. Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, alfalfa is now naturalized and cultivated around the world. In the wild, it prefers to make its home in meadows and, even, cultivated areas.

Uses

Food alfalfa has been consumed for thousands of years by humans and animals alike

Therapeutical seeds are taken to help lower cholesterol levels

Menstruation & Menopause Relief with estrogenic activity, alfalfa is useful in treating symptoms of menstruation and menopause

Parts used

Aerial parts

Seeds

Sprouting Seeds

Key Actions

Estrogenic

Constituents

Isoflavones

Coumarins

Alkaloids

Vitamins

Porphyrins

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References

  • Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 233-34.
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