PROPER NAME:	Medicago sativa
COMMON NAMES:	Alfalfa, Al Falfa, Lucerne, Buffalo Herb, Purple Medic, Silverleaf, Milkvetch
PARTS USED:	Leaves, flowering tops, root
FORMS:	Tea, tablets, capsules, fresh
CLAIMS:	Remedy for various types of arthritic conditions including rheumatoid arthritis. Advocates also claim that large quantities of tablets taken before meals will prevent the absorption of cholesterol, thus benefiting the heart and blood vessels. The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and beta-carotene. Claims are made for the capability of the tea in treating diabetes, boosting a sluggish appetite, and acting as a general tonic. Alfalfa has also been stated to have estrogenic activity, in which it is recommended to help stimulate milk production. Other advertised claims include use for upset stomachs, urinary tract infections, ulcers, anemia, and a natural laxative and diuretic.
DOSAGE:	Capsules or tablets: Take 3 to 6 daily Dried Herb: Mix 1 tablespoon with 8 ounces of warm water. Drink 1-cup tea daily Fresh: Toss alfalfa sprouts in salads For relief from rheumatoid arthritis, take 9 to 18 alfalfa tablets daily
SIDE EFFECTS:	It has been known since 1981, that eating very large quantities of alfalfa seeds daily could produce reversible blood abnormalities in human beings. Subsequent studies of normal monkeys fed alfalfa seeds or sprouts have shown that systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an inflammatory connective tissue disease, can be induced. There is some evidence that alfalfa may trigger lupus in sensitive individuals. It seems likely that a nonprotein amino acid, L-canavanine, may be responsible for causing the blood abnormalities and in inducing or reactivating lupus in persons having a predisposition to that condition. Saponins of alfalfa root are hemolytic and may interfere with the utilization of vitamin E.

ALFALFA REFERENCES:
Alfalfa (on-line). (2001). Available Internet: www.best.com/~timj/herbage/A311.htm

Balch, JF., Balch, PA. (1992). Prescription for Dietary Wellness, Using Foods to Heal. Garden City Park, NY: Avery Publishing Group, Inc.

Duke, JA. (1997). The Green Pharmacy. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press.

Gursche, S. (1997). Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. Burnaby, BC: Alive Publishing, Inc.

Mindell, E. (1992). Earl Mindell’s Herb Bible. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster/Fireside.

Tyler, VE. (1993). The Honest Herbal, A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies. 3rd ed. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Press, Inc.

Disclaimer:
This article is intended to provide basic information only. It is not a recommendation for use or endorsement of any product listed, by the Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association. Please consult your physician or a health professional before taking any medications or supplements.

Looking for previously posted Complementary Nutrition topics or our Cultural Food Pyramids and Recipes? Visit our archives in the General Nutrition Information Section.