Alfalfa

DEFINITION

Alfalfa is a herb with the botanical name of Medicago sativa. Alfalfa has several
other names including Lucerne, Medicage and Purple Medick.

DESCRIPTION

Alfalfa grows naturally in the Mediterranean region and is cultivated widely and
reaches up to 50cm in height. It has a light taste and little odour. The flowers are
blue-violet in colour and bloom from July to September. All of the plant is used and contains acids, alkaloids, amino acids, saponins and other constituents such as carbohydrate.
It is possible to grow your own sprouts at home.

INTERACTIONS

Herbal supplements can alter the effects of certain drugs, including prescription medications.
Always tell your Doctor about any prescription medications, non-prescription medications,
herbs or other dietary supplements you are taking. Alfalfa should be avoided by people taking
anticoagulant medications such as warfarin because Alfalfa may enhance the drug's action in
the body.

MEDICAL USE

Always consult your Health Professional to advise you on dosages and any possible medical
interactions.

Alfalfa is suggested to increase the general health and help the natural body defence
mechanism. The herb contains vitamin K, which reduces the clotting time of blood. Chlorophyll
is also present in Alfalfa. Alfalfa may be of benefit in women with heavy periods.
High levels of cholesterol may be lowered by taking this herb. Alfalfa is used by the body for
digestion of food and weight control. It also is thought to lessen tiredness and acidity.

NOTES

- A substance in Alfalfa supplements (L-canavanine) may aggravate the symptoms of lupus
erythematosus, so it is advisable that people with this disease avoid these supplements.
- Alfalfa seeds should not be ingested during pregnancy and lactation.

DISCLAIMER : The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or naturopath before following any medical regimen to see whether it is safe and effective for you.