[This article contains information on medicinal herbalism, read our Medical Disclaimer here.]
Botanical name: Medicago sativa
The word alfalfa is derived from the Arabic phrase "al-fac-facah" which means "father of all foods" because it is so rich in vitamins and minerals.
Family Fabaceae, the pea family
Origin South-Central Asia, first cultivated in ancient Iran.
Botany The alfalfa plant grows an extensive root system deep under the Earth's surface. This is what allows the plant to absorb more vitamins and minerals than others.
Parts Used Leaves, stems, seeds, and sprouts.
Energetics Cold or neutral, clears heat and dries dampness.
Taste Bitter, salty
Organs and Meridians Stomach, spleen, and kidneys
Nutrition
Naturally high in vitamins and minerals, including A,D,E,K, B vitamins, biotin, calcium, folic acid, iron, magnesium, potassium. High in protein, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Has the highest nutritional value of any hay, so it's often used to feed livestock.
Phytochemistry:
Isoflavones- has structural similarities to estrogens
L-canavanine is a non-protein amino acid, an L-arginine antagonist and therefore an antimetabolite. High amounts are found in alfalfa seeds. L-canavanine is a documented antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and antineoplastic agent.
Therapeutic actions:
Alterative: gradually restoring proper functioning to the body's metabolism to bring about balance.
Analgesic: relieves or diminishes pain
Anti-bacterial: destroy or inhibit the growth of bacteria.
Anti-fungal: destroys fungal infections
Anti-viral: destroy and inhibit the spread of viruses
Anti-tumor: Prevents and inhibits the formation of tumors
Depurative: helps to purify the body, particularly the blood
Diuretic: increases the secretion and expulsion of urine
Galactagogue: promote the production and flow of breast milk in nursing mothers.
Uses
Digestive System
Bitter property stimulates appetite
High in nutrients
Reproductive System
Alfalfa is a restorative tonic on the female reproductive system
Breastfeeding
Galactagogue and estrogenic properties increase breast milk production in new mothers.
Menstruation
May help relieve menstrual cramps due to estrogenic properties
Endometriosis
May help relieve endometriosis symptoms due to estrogenic properties
Menopause
May help relieve symptoms of menopause due to estrogenic properties
Here’s where i source my alfalfa
Psychological and Metaphysical uses
Gender essence: Feminine
Planet: Venus
Element: Earth
Powers: Prosperity, anti-hunger, money
Keep in the home to protect against poverty and hunger. Keep in a jar in the cupboard, or burn alfalfa and scatter the ashes for this purpose. Alfalfa is used in money spells.
Safety:
There is some evidence that alfalfa increases the function of the immune system, and can be dangerous for those who have auto-immune diseases. Those who have multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions where a hyper-active immune system is a undesirable symptom, should not consume alfalfa more than what could be commonly found within food.
Alfalfa may cause some skin types to become extra-sensitive to the sun. Wear sunscreen always, but especially when consuming alfalfa regularly.
Due to the phytoestrogen within alfalfa, excessive consumption (that which is more than what could be common used in food) may be unsafe for those who are pregnant or nursing.
Drug interactions
Warfarin or other blood thinning medications. Due to the high content of vitamin K in alfalfa, which the body uses to help blood clotting, alfalfa will cause the medication to not work properly.
Birth control. The estrogen in alfalfa may cause birth control pills to not work effectively.
Application
Leaves make a pleasant tasting tea. Tea infusion: 1 tsp to 1 cup water.
Add liberally to salads.
Liquid extract of dried leaf. Take 30-40 drops, 3-5 times per day. At 1:5 ratio.
Grow alfalfa sprouts! A great way to add nutrients to your daily meals.
Sincerely,
Emilee Wright
A Mercurial Consciousness