Alfalfa benefits
Alfalfa is a perennial flowering plant commonly referred to as M. sativa L. It is found natively in various countries throughout the world. It has been increasing in its popularity as a dietary supplement for humans in recent years in the United States. This plant is able to absorb minerals from the soil much better than other plants and as a result it is a rich source of vitamins and minerals like vitamins A, C, E, K, B1, B6, niacin, folic acid, calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc and many others. The alfalfa plant is also very high in protein, isoflavones, sterols and more. Alfalfa has been traditionally used as feed for dairy and beef cattle, horses, and dairy goats. However, it has many benefits for human consumption as well. As a plant, it improves soil structure and fixes nitrogen levels in the soil. It is an integral component of many crop rotations in the United States and also used successfully as a pasture crop.
There are numerous claims about alfalfa benefits. It is now being used as a dietary supplement to enhance the health of humans because of all of the nutrients the plant contains. It is claimed that supplementing with alfalfa can help treat various health problems. Eating alfalfa bean sprouts gives a generous supply of fiber and vitamins and protein. Alfalfa benefits the heart and vascular system and may help treat hypertension. Supplementing the diet with alfalfa can help to lower cholesterol levels in the blood as well as decrease the amount of cholesterol the body absorbs in the intestines.
Alfalfa benefits for such health conditions as arthritis, diabetes, digestive problems, kidney and bladder problems, prostate conditions, ulcers, hay fever and asthma are claimed. It can also be used to prevent atherosclerosis and blockage of the arteries by cholesterol. Alfalfa can benefit people who have chronic fatigue syndrome as well. This is because it corrects vitamin and mineral deficiencies that may be the cause of chronic fatigue. The anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants in alfalfa help to give relief to arthritis sufferers. People who have intestinal ulcers can help heal them with the use of alfalfa. It can also help people who have gastritis or liver disorders. It should be noted that while there have been many claims of healthful alfalfa benefits there have been no official scientific studies done to substantiate them.
Chinese healers have traditionally used alfalfa leaves to cleanse the digestive system and to treat people who have bladder or kidney stones for 1500 years or more. It can be successfully used to improve the urine flow and treat jaundice. It is even added to soups and used as a diuretic. This plant has also been used to make tea for use as a bowel stimulant and digestive aid. Drinking the tea can help improve the appetite as well.
Alfalfa first began to be used for its many health benefits in the U.S. in the early 1900s by doctors who specialized in herbal medicine. It is used to treat anemia because of its high iron content. It can help correct loss of appetite, indigestion, and dyspepsia. It has been claimed to help rejuvenate the body and increase strength and vitality. Alfalfa is very beneficial for women. It can be used as an estrogen replacement for women going through menopause as alfalfa grass is a phytoestrogen. Alfalfa supplements help relieve premenstrual syndrome as well. Nursing mothers can increase breast milk production if they supplement with alfalfa.
To get the most benefit from alfalfa supplements look for products that contain extracts from the leaves and sprouts as the main ingredient. It is best to avoid the supplements that include the alfalfa seeds. Alfalfa supplements are easily found in most health food stores and online. Individuals who are taking prescription medications should consult with their doctor before supplementing with alfalfa. This is especially true for people who are taking blood thinners because of the vitamin K found in alfalfa which helps with blood clotting.
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