Alfalfa: Difference between revisions

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==Alfalfa==
{{Speciesbox
 
| image = 75_Medicago_sativa_L.jpg
[[File:Medicago sativa (alfalfa).jpg|alt=Medicago sativa (alfalfa)|thumb|'''Medicago sativa (alfalfa)''']]
| image_caption = ''Medicago sativa''
 
| genus = [[Medicago]]
| parent = Medicago sect. Medicago
| species = sativa
| authority = [[Carl Linnaeus|L.]]
}}
'''Alfalfa''' (''Medicago sativa'') is a perennial [[flowering plant]] in the [[legume]] family ([[Fabaceae]]), renowned for its high nutritional value and diverse agricultural and medicinal uses. Widely cultivated around the world as a [[forage crop]], alfalfa is used to feed [[livestock]], improve [[soil fertility]], and provide [[dietary supplements]] for humans.


'''Alfalfa''' (scientific name: ''Medicago sativa'') is a perennial flowering plant in the legume family. It is known for its exceptional nutritional value and is widely cultivated as a forage crop for livestock. In addition to its use as animal feed, alfalfa also offers numerous health benefits for humans. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, cultivation, uses, and health benefits of alfalfa.
[[File:Medicago sativa (alfalfa).jpg|alt=Medicago sativa (alfalfa)|thumb|'''Medicago sativa (alfalfa)'']]


== Characteristics ==
== Botanical Classification ==
Alfalfa is a hardy plant with a deep root system that allows it to withstand dry conditions. It has a bushy growth habit and can reach a height of 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm). The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they consist of three leaflets. The flowers are small and usually purple or blue in color, arranged in clusters on long spikes. Alfalfa plants also produce pods containing seeds, which are often used for sprouting.
[[File:Sprouted Alfalfa.jpg|alt=Sprouted Alfalfa|Sprouted Alfalfa|thumb]]
 
[[File:Alfalfa Sprouts (3684232481).jpg|alt=Alfalfa Sprouts |Alfalfa Sprouts|thumb]]
== Cultivation ==
== Botanical Characteristics ==
Alfalfa is cultivated in many regions around the world due to its adaptability and nutritional value. Here are some key aspects of alfalfa cultivation:
Alfalfa grows between 30–90 cm (1–3 feet) in height and exhibits a bushy growth habit. Its leaves are [[trifoliate]], each comprising three small [[leaflets]]. The plant produces clusters of purple to blue [[flowers]], and [[seed pods]] that curl in a spiral, each containing several seeds. A deep root system enables alfalfa to tolerate drought and improve [[soil structure]].


== Cultivation and Agronomy ==
=== Climate and Soil Requirements ===
=== Climate and Soil Requirements ===
Alfalfa grows best in temperate climates with well-drained soils. It requires a minimum of 15 inches (38 cm) of annual rainfall or irrigation equivalent. The plant prefers pH-neutral to slightly alkaline soils with good fertility.
Alfalfa thrives in [[temperate]] climates and prefers [[well-drained soil]] with neutral to slightly [[alkaline pH]]. It requires at least 38 cm (15 inches) of annual rainfall or equivalent [[irrigation]].
 
=== Planting and Harvesting ===
Alfalfa is typically propagated through seeds. The seeds are sown in prepared seedbeds and require good soil contact for successful germination. The plants are usually harvested for hay when they reach the early flowering stage. Timing is crucial to ensure maximum nutrient content and digestibility.
 
=== Rotation and Maintenance ===
To maintain the health and productivity of alfalfa fields, rotational planting is recommended. This involves planting alfalfa for a specific period and then rotating to other crops to prevent disease buildup and optimize soil fertility. Regular irrigation, weed control, and pest management are also important for successful cultivation.
 
== Uses ==
=== Livestock Feed ===
Alfalfa is primarily grown as a forage crop for livestock. The high protein content, along with vitamins and minerals, makes it a valuable source of nutrition for cattle, horses, sheep, and other grazing animals. It can be harvested as hay, silage, or pasture, providing essential nutrients for animal growth and production.
 
=== Soil Improvement ===
Alfalfa has a deep root system that can penetrate the soil and break up compacted layers. This helps improve soil structure, aeration, and water infiltration. Additionally, alfalfa's ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere enriches the soil with this vital nutrient, benefiting subsequent crops in rotation.
 
=== Human Consumption ===
Alfalfa is also consumed by humans, primarily in the form of sprouts. Alfalfa sprouts are popular additions to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. They are low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. However, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, or individuals taking certain medications should exercise caution when consuming raw sprouts due to potential contamination risks.
 
== Health Benefits ==
Alfalfa offers several health benefits due to its nutrient profile and bioactive compounds. Some potential benefits include:
 
=== Nutritional Value ===
Alfalfa is a good source of essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins (A, C, E, K, and B vitamins), and minerals (calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium). It can contribute to a well-rounded diet, supporting overall health and vitality.
 
=== Antioxidant Properties ===
Alfalfa contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants may contribute to reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain types of cancer.
 
=== Potential Cholesterol-Lowering Effects ===
Some studies suggest that consuming alfalfa may have cholesterol-lowering effects. The fiber and plant sterols present in alfalfa may help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, thereby promoting cardiovascular health.
 
=== Anti-Inflammatory Effects ===
Certain compounds found in alfalfa, such as saponins, may possess anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds have been studied for their potential to reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis and may contribute to overall well-being.
 
==How it is Alfalfa used as a [[supplement]]?==
Alfalfa is utilised for kidney situation, bladder and prostate situation, and to increase urine flow. It is furthermore used for high cholesterol, asthma, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, upset stomach, and a bleeding disorder called thrombocytopenic purpura. persons also take alfalfa as a source of vitamins A, C, E, and K4; and minerals calcium, potassium, phosphorous, and metal.
 
==How effective or useful is Alfalfa?==
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness founded on scientific clues according to the following scale: productive, expected productive, probably productive, probably Ineffective, expected Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.
 
== Gallery ==
<gallery>
File:Alfalfa CDC.jpg|alt=Alfalfa|Alfalfa
File:Sprouted Alfalfa.jpg|alt=Sprouted Alfalfa|Sprouted Alfalfa
File:Alfalfa Sprouts (3684232481).jpg|alt=Alfalfa Sprouts |Alfalfa Sprouts
File:Salad, Romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomato, green pepper, radish, alfalfa sprouts, black olives, lemon juice, salt & olive oil (7765310086).jpg|alt=Salad, Romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomato, green pepper, radish, alfalfa sprouts, black olives, lemon juice, salt & olive oil|'''Salad, Romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomato, green pepper, radish, alfalfa sprouts, black olives, lemon juice, salt & olive oil'''
</gallery>
 
The effectiveness rankings by the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Repository for ALFALFA are as noted below:
 
Insufficient clues to rate effectiveness for any of the following:
* Reducing cholesterol in people with high cholesterol. Taking alfalfa seeds appears to lower total cholesterol and “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in persons with high cholesterol grades.
* Kidney troubles.
* Bladder troubles.
* Prostate troubles.
* Asthma.
* Arthritis.
* Diabetes.
* Upset stomach.
 
More research is required to rate alfalfa for these benefits.
 
==Mechanism of action==
Alfalfa appears to prevent cholesterol absorption in the gut.
 
==How safe is Alfalfa?==
Alfalfa leaves are probably not too risky for most adults. But taking alfalfa kernels long-term is expected UNSAFE. Alfalfa seed goods may origin reactions that are similar to the autoimmune problem called systemic lupus erythematosus.


Alfalfa might furthermore cause some people's skin to become additional sensitive to the sun. Wear sunblock outside, particularly if you are light-skinned.
=== Propagation and Harvesting ===
Alfalfa is typically sown via [[seed]] into prepared seedbeds. Germination requires good soil contact and moisture. Harvesting is generally done during the [[early flowering stage]] to optimize [[nutritional value]].


'''exceptional precautions & warnings:'''
=== Crop Rotation and Management ===
Pregnancy or breast-feeding: utilising alfalfa in larger than nourishment allowances is probably UNSAFE throughout pregnancy and breast-feeding. There is some evidence that alfalfa may act like estrogen, and this might affect the pregnancy.
Alfalfa is commonly rotated with other [[crops]] to prevent [[disease]], manage [[pests]], and maintain soil health. Practices like [[irrigation]], [[weed control]], and [[pest management]] are vital to maintaining high [[yields]].
 
“Auto-immune diseases” such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other situation: Alfalfa might cause the immune scheme to become more hardworking, and this could boost the symptoms of auto-immune infections. There are two case accounts of SLE patients experiencing disease flare after taking alfalfa kernel goods long-term. If you have an auto-immune status, it’s best to bypass utilising alfalfa until more is renowned.
 
Hormone-sensitive status such as breast cancerous disease, uterine cancerous disease, ovarian cancerous disease, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids: Alfalfa might have the identical effects as the feminine hormone estrogen. If you have any condition that might be made poorer by exposure to estrogen, don’t use alfalfa.
 
Diabetes: Alfalfa might help reduce blood sugars (rarely hypoglycemia). If you have diabetes and take alfalfa, monitor your blood sugar levels nearly.
 
Kidney transplant: There is one report of a kidney transplant rejection following the three-month use of a supplement that contained alfalfa and very dark cohosh. This conclusion is more expected due to alfalfa than very dark cohosh. There is some clues that alfalfa can boost the immune scheme and this might make the anti-rejection pharmaceutical cyclosporine less effective.


== Agricultural and Dietary Uses ==
=== Forage Crop ===
Alfalfa is among the most valuable [[forage crops]] due to its high [[protein]], [[vitamin]], and [[mineral]] content. It is fed to cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and other [[ruminants]] as [[hay]], [[silage]], or [[pasture]].
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=== Soil Enrichment ===
Alfalfa roots [[fix nitrogen]] in the soil via [[rhizobia]] bacteria, enhancing fertility. The deep root system also improves [[aeration]] and water infiltration, making it beneficial in [[sustainable agriculture]].


==Are there interactions off Alfalfa with medications?==
=== Human Consumption ===
Humans consume alfalfa primarily as [[alfalfa sprouts]], a popular addition to [[salads]] and [[sandwiches]]. Sprouts are rich in [[vitamins]] A, C, and K, as well as [[calcium]] and [[iron]]. However, raw sprouts can pose a risk of [[foodborne illness]] for vulnerable populations.


Major interactions that require you to not take this combination.
== Health Benefits and Nutrition ==
=== Nutrient Profile ===
Alfalfa is rich in [[protein]], [[fiber]], [[vitamins]] (A, C, E, K, and B-complex), and [[minerals]] like [[calcium]], [[magnesium]], [[potassium]], and [[iron]].


Warfarin (Coumadin)
=== Antioxidant Properties ===
Alfalfa comprises large amounts of vitamin K. Vitamin K is utilised by the body to help body-fluid clot. Warfarin (Coumadin) is utilised to slow blood clotting. By helping the blood clot, alfalfa might decrease the effectiveness of warfarin (Coumadin). Be certain to have your body-fluid checked frequently. The dose of your warfarin (Coumadin) might need to be altered.
Alfalfa contains [[flavonoids]] and [[phenolic compounds]] that help scavenge [[free radicals]], potentially reducing the risk of [[chronic diseases]] like [[cardiovascular disease]] and certain [[cancers]].


''Moderate risk of interactions that you should be careful while taking Alfalfa''
=== Cholesterol and Inflammation ===
Some studies suggest alfalfa may lower [[LDL cholesterol]] and reduce [[inflammation]], benefiting those with [[arthritis]] or [[heart disease]]. [[Saponins]] in alfalfa are believed to play a role in these effects.


''Birth command pills (Contraceptive drugs)'''
== Supplementation and Traditional Uses ==
Some birth command tablets contain estrogen. Alfalfa might have some of the identical consequences as estrogen. But alfalfa isn't as strong as the estrogen in birth command tablets. Taking alfalfa along with birth command tablets might decline the effectiveness of birth command tablets. If you take birth command pills along with alfalfa, use an additional pattern of birth control such as a condom.
Alfalfa is used as a [[dietary supplement]] for conditions such as [[kidney disease]], [[bladder disorders]], [[diabetes]], [[arthritis]], and [[high cholesterol]]. It's also taken for its high [[vitamin K]] content and [[phytoestrogen]] activity.


Some birth control pills encompass ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel (Triphasil), ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone (Ortho-Novum 1/35, Ortho-Novum 7/7/7), and other ones.


''''Estrogens'''
== Nutritional Composition ==
Large allowances of alfalfa might have some of the identical consequences as estrogen. But even large allowance of alfalfa aren't as powerful as estrogen tablets. Taking alfalfa along with estrogen pills might decline the consequences of estrogen pills.
{{Food infobox
| class = FinalFood
| description = Alfalfa seeds, sprouted, raw
| energy = 96
| protein = 3.99
| fat = 0.69
| carbs = 2.1
| fiber = 1.9
| sugars = 0.2
| calcium = 32
| iron = 0.96
| sodium = 6
| vitamin-C = 8.2
| vitamin-A = 155
| fatty-acids = 0.069
| cholesterol = 0
}}


Some estrogen tablets include conjugated equine estrogens (Premarin), ethinyl estradiol, estradiol, and other ones.
=== Mechanism of Action ===
Alfalfa may reduce cholesterol absorption in the [[intestines]] and modulate [[estrogen receptors]], accounting for both its lipid-lowering and hormonal effects.


==Interaction of Alfalfa with medications that decrease the immunity (Immunosuppressants)==
== Effectiveness and Safety ==
Alfalfa might increase the immune system. By expanding the immune system, alfalfa might decline the effectiveness of medications that decline the immune system.
=== Effectiveness Ratings ===
According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, alfalfa is rated "Insufficient Evidence to Rate" for most uses, including:
* Lowering [[cholesterol]]
* Treating [[asthma]]
* Managing [[diabetes]]
* Easing [[digestive problems]]


Some medications that decline the immune scheme encompass azathioprine (Imuran), basiliximab (Simulect), cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), daclizumab (Zenapax), muromonab-CD3 (OKT3, Orthoclone OKT3), mycophenolate (CellCept), tacrolimus (FK506, Prograf), sirolimus (Rapamune), prednisone (Deltasone, Orasone), corticosteroids (glucocorticoids), and other ones.
=== Safety Profile ===
Alfalfa [[leaves]] are likely safe when consumed in normal food amounts. However, long-term use of alfalfa [[seeds]] is considered unsafe due to links with [[systemic lupus erythematosus]]-like symptoms.


==Interaction of Alfalfa with medications that boost sensitivity to sunlight (Photosensitizing drugs)==
=== Precautions ===
Some medications can boost sensitivity to sunlight. Large doses of alfalfa might furthermore boost your sensitivity to sunlight. Taking alfalfa along with medication that boost sensitivity to sunlight could make you even more sensitive to sunlight, expanding the chances of sunburn, blistering or rashes on localities of skin exposed to sunlight. Be certain to wear sunblock and protective apparel when expending time in the sun.
* '''Pregnancy and breastfeeding''': Avoid high doses due to [[estrogenic]] effects.
* '''Autoimmune diseases''': May stimulate the immune system and worsen conditions like [[lupus]] or [[rheumatoid arthritis]].
* '''Hormone-sensitive conditions''': Avoid in [[breast cancer]], [[endometriosis]], and related disorders.
* '''Diabetes''': May lower [[blood sugar]]—monitor glucose closely.
* '''Kidney transplant''': May reduce the effectiveness of [[immunosuppressive drugs]].


Some pharmaceuticals that origin photosensitivity include amitriptyline (Elavil), Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), norfloxacin (Noroxin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), ofloxacin (Floxin), levofloxacin (Levaquin), sparfloxacin (Zagam), gatifloxacin (Tequin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (Septra), tetracycline, methoxsalen (8-methoxypsoralen, 8-MOP, Oxsoralen), and Trioxsalen (Trisoralen).
== Drug Interactions ==
=== Major Interactions ===
* '''[[Warfarin]] (Coumadin)''': Alfalfa’s high [[vitamin K]] may reduce the effectiveness of [[anticoagulants]].


==Are there interactions with herbs and supplements?==
=== Moderate Interactions ===
'''Vitamin E'''
* '''[[Contraceptives]]''': Alfalfa may reduce [[estrogen]] effectiveness in [[birth control pills]].
Alfalfa might hinder with the way the body takes in and values vitamin E.
* '''[[Estrogens]]''': May interfere with [[hormone therapy]].
* '''[[Immunosuppressants]]''': May counteract drugs like [[cyclosporine]] and [[tacrolimus]].
* '''[[Photosensitizing drugs]]''': Alfalfa may increase sensitivity to sunlight when combined with certain antibiotics or antidepressants.


Are there interactions with foods?Return to top
== Herbal and Nutrient Interactions ==
There are no renowned interactions with nourishment.
* '''[[Vitamin E]]''': Alfalfa may impair [[absorption]] and [[bioavailability]] of vitamin E.


What dose is used?Return to peak
== Dosing Information ==
The following doses have been investigated in technical study:
* For high cholesterol: 5–10 grams of dried [[herb]] or [[infusion]], three times daily.
* Liquid extract (1:1 in 25% alcohol): 5–10 mL, three times daily.


BY MOUTH:
== Keto Friendliness ==
For high cholesterol: a typical dose is 5-10 grams of the herb, or as a steeped struggled tea, three times a day. 5-10 mL of a liquid extract (1:1 in 25% alcoholic beverage) three times a day has also been utilised.
With only 0.2g of net [[carbohydrates]] per 100g, alfalfa sprouts are an ideal food for a [[ketogenic diet]]. They are rich in [[protein]] and [[vitamins]], while being low in [[calories]].


== Keto friendliness of {{PAGENAME}} ==
== Other Names ==
[[File:Keto-meter-one.png|alt=Ketometer 1 - very keto friendly|thumb|Ketometer 1 - very keto friendly]]
Feuille de Luzerne, Herbe aux Bisons, Lucerne, Luzerne, Medicago, Purple Medick, Sanfoin, Phytoestrogen.
With a net carbohydrates of just about 0.2 per 100 grams, alfalfa sprouts are one of the most keto friendly foods you can get. Rich in protein, vitamin A and with just about 100 calories, alfalfa sprouts are a healthy addition to any [[ketogenic diet]].


==Other names==
== Gallery ==
Feuille de Luzerne, impressive Trèfle, Herbe aux Bisons, Herbe à Vaches, Lucerne, Luzerne, Medicago, Medicago sativa, Phyoestrogen, Phyto-œstrogène, Purple Medick, Sanfoin.
<gallery>
File:Alfalfa CDC.jpg|alt=Alfalfa|Alfalfa
File:Salad, Romaine lettuce, cucumber, tomato, green pepper, radish, alfalfa sprouts, black olives, lemon juice, salt & olive oil (7765310086).jpg|alt=Salad with alfalfa sprouts|Salad with alfalfa sprouts
</gallery>


Also see [[Supplement]]
== See Also ==
{{Food infobox
* [[Legume]]
|class = FinalFood
* [[Forage crops]]
|description = Alfalfa seeds, sprouted, raw
* [[Sprouting (food)]]
|energy = 96
* [[Dietary supplement]]
|protein = 3.99
|fat = 0.69
|carbs = 2.1
|fiber = 1.9
|sugars = 0.2
|calcium = 32
|iron = 0.96
|sodium = 6
|vitamin-C = 8.2
|vitamin-A = 155
|fatty-acids = 0.069
|cholesterol = 0
|ingredients =
|fdc = 168384
}}
 
== References ==
<references />


== External Links ==
== External Links ==
* [https://www.agronomy.org/ Alfalfa Production and Management Resources]


[https://www.agronomy.org/ Alfalfa Production and Management Resources] - Information on alfalfa cultivation and management practices.
== See Also ==
[[Legume]]
[[Forage crops]]
[[Sprouting (food)]]
[[Category:Plants]]
[[Category:Plants]]
[[Category:Agriculture]]
[[Category:Agriculture]]
Line 190: Line 143:
[[Category:Nutrition]]
[[Category:Nutrition]]
[[Category:Health]]
[[Category:Health]]
 
[[Category:Dietary supplements]]
== Further Reading ==
{{nt}}
 
Doe, J. (2018). ''Alfalfa Farming: The Complete Guide to Growing and Managing Alfalfa''. Createspace Independent Publishing Platform.
Smith, R.L., & Smith, S.N. (2017). ''Alfalfa: Ecology, Production and Disease Management''. CABI.
== External Links ==
 
[https://extension.umn.edu/forage-legume-management/alfalfa University of Minnesota Extension - Alfalfa Production and Management] - Comprehensive information on alfalfa production, management, and disease control.
[https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4162345/ Alfalfa and Its Role in Human Health] - Research article exploring the potential health benefits of alfalfa consumption.
{{usdastb}}

Latest revision as of 10:34, 26 March 2025

Medicago sativa

Medicago sativa

Medicago sativa
Scientific classification
Kingdom
Phylum
Class
Order
Family
Genus Medicago
Species sativa
Binomial name Medicago sativa
Binomial authority
Synonyms

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a perennial flowering plant in the legume family (Fabaceae), renowned for its high nutritional value and diverse agricultural and medicinal uses. Widely cultivated around the world as a forage crop, alfalfa is used to feed livestock, improve soil fertility, and provide dietary supplements for humans.

Medicago sativa (alfalfa)
'Medicago sativa (alfalfa)

Botanical Classification[edit]

Sprouted Alfalfa
Sprouted Alfalfa
Alfalfa Sprouts
Alfalfa Sprouts

Botanical Characteristics[edit]

Alfalfa grows between 30–90 cm (1–3 feet) in height and exhibits a bushy growth habit. Its leaves are trifoliate, each comprising three small leaflets. The plant produces clusters of purple to blue flowers, and seed pods that curl in a spiral, each containing several seeds. A deep root system enables alfalfa to tolerate drought and improve soil structure.

Cultivation and Agronomy[edit]

Climate and Soil Requirements[edit]

Alfalfa thrives in temperate climates and prefers well-drained soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It requires at least 38 cm (15 inches) of annual rainfall or equivalent irrigation.

Propagation and Harvesting[edit]

Alfalfa is typically sown via seed into prepared seedbeds. Germination requires good soil contact and moisture. Harvesting is generally done during the early flowering stage to optimize nutritional value.

Crop Rotation and Management[edit]

Alfalfa is commonly rotated with other crops to prevent disease, manage pests, and maintain soil health. Practices like irrigation, weed control, and pest management are vital to maintaining high yields.

Agricultural and Dietary Uses[edit]

Forage Crop[edit]

Alfalfa is among the most valuable forage crops due to its high protein, vitamin, and mineral content. It is fed to cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and other ruminants as hay, silage, or pasture.

Soil Enrichment[edit]

Alfalfa roots fix nitrogen in the soil via rhizobia bacteria, enhancing fertility. The deep root system also improves aeration and water infiltration, making it beneficial in sustainable agriculture.

Human Consumption[edit]

Humans consume alfalfa primarily as alfalfa sprouts, a popular addition to salads and sandwiches. Sprouts are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. However, raw sprouts can pose a risk of foodborne illness for vulnerable populations.

Health Benefits and Nutrition[edit]

Nutrient Profile[edit]

Alfalfa is rich in protein, fiber, vitamins (A, C, E, K, and B-complex), and minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Antioxidant Properties[edit]

Alfalfa contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help scavenge free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.

Cholesterol and Inflammation[edit]

Some studies suggest alfalfa may lower LDL cholesterol and reduce inflammation, benefiting those with arthritis or heart disease. Saponins in alfalfa are believed to play a role in these effects.

Supplementation and Traditional Uses[edit]

Alfalfa is used as a dietary supplement for conditions such as kidney disease, bladder disorders, diabetes, arthritis, and high cholesterol. It's also taken for its high vitamin K content and phytoestrogen activity.


Nutritional Composition[edit]

Alfalfa seeds, sprouted, raw
Portion 100 g
Fiber, total dietary 1.9 g
Calcium, Ca 32 mg
Iron, Fe 0.96 mg
Vitamin A, IU 155 IU
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid 8.2 mg
Protein 3.99 g
Total lipid (fat) 0.69 g
Carbohydrate, by difference 2.1 g
Energy 96 kcal
Sugars, total including NLEA 0.2 g
Cholesterol 0 mg
Sodium, Na 6 mg
Fatty acids, total saturated 0.069 g

Mechanism of Action[edit]

Alfalfa may reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestines and modulate estrogen receptors, accounting for both its lipid-lowering and hormonal effects.

Effectiveness and Safety[edit]

Effectiveness Ratings[edit]

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, alfalfa is rated "Insufficient Evidence to Rate" for most uses, including:

Safety Profile[edit]

Alfalfa leaves are likely safe when consumed in normal food amounts. However, long-term use of alfalfa seeds is considered unsafe due to links with systemic lupus erythematosus-like symptoms.

Precautions[edit]

Drug Interactions[edit]

Major Interactions[edit]

Moderate Interactions[edit]

Herbal and Nutrient Interactions[edit]

Dosing Information[edit]

  • For high cholesterol: 5–10 grams of dried herb or infusion, three times daily.
  • Liquid extract (1:1 in 25% alcohol): 5–10 mL, three times daily.

Keto Friendliness[edit]

With only 0.2g of net carbohydrates per 100g, alfalfa sprouts are an ideal food for a ketogenic diet. They are rich in protein and vitamins, while being low in calories.

Other Names[edit]

Feuille de Luzerne, Herbe aux Bisons, Lucerne, Luzerne, Medicago, Purple Medick, Sanfoin, Phytoestrogen.

Gallery[edit]

  • Alfalfa
    Alfalfa
  • Salad with alfalfa sprouts
    Salad with alfalfa sprouts

See Also[edit]

External Links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://wikimd.com/index.php?title=Alfalfa&oldid=6537513"