Amazing Alfalfa

Discovered by Arabs, Alfalfa (Medico sativa) is believed to be an amazingly valuable herb. So much so that Arabs fed these to their horses in expectance of making them stronger. Since 6th century it has been used as part of traditional Chinese medicines to treat fluid retention, swelling and kidney stones. The leaves of the plant are enriched with nutrients like Vitamin E, Vitamin K and proteins.

They also include minerals calcium, magnesium and potassium. The leaves carry carotene as well which is useful against cancer and heart diseases. With additional presence of 8 amino acids the plant is having multiple health benefits. Its medicinal preparations include Alfalfa powder extracts and liquid preparations.

The herb is effective as a natural diuretic and laxative. Urinary tract infections are treated traditionally using preparations made from this herb. Disorders of kidney, bladder and prostate have also observed relief by this herb. In ayurvedic medicines, it is used to boost breast milk production and to treat anemia. It even stimulates appetite and due to its oestrogenic action it is helpful in menstruation related problems.

It is a good nutritional source for vitamins, chlorophyll and minerals. It detoxifies and alkalizes the body. The herb even bears an anti-fungus agent and boosts the proper functioning of Pituitary gland function. The seeds are not normally used in the preparation since it carries a toxic amino acid-L-canavanine.

The marketed preparations of alfalfa include pellets/pills of different potencies. The herb is also available in the form of powder extract is prepared from dried leaves of the plant. Research is now going on that alfalfa stems have the potential to be biofuels for Woodstoves.

There are various companies which manufacture and market various forms of Alfalfa preparations. One is Neu-Regen, Juvecal Tonic; another is Standfast alfalfa. The internet can provide you with information on the nearest alfalfa preparation supplier.