Cultivated throughout the world as a high-protein feed for cattle, the alfalfa plant (Medicago sativa) belongs to the family of legumes. Harvest involves cutting the entire plant a few inches above the ground, just before the plant blooms. After harvest, supplement manufacturers dry and pulverize the herb for use in capsules and tablets. In addition to the mature plant, tender sprouts from the alfalfa seed may be beneficial when eaten as part of a healthy diet.
Cholesterol
Taken as a supplement, adults over 18 may experience reduced cholesterol levels, reports MedlinePlus, an online medical source from the National Institutes of Health. The standard dose is between 1 and 2 tbsp. of the dried herb daily.
Although this herb is generally safe, MedlinePlus reports rare side effects that include lupus-like symptoms, low blood count, skin inflammation, and an upset stomach, diarrhea or gassiness.
Arteriosclerosis
Although no scientific evidence supports the benefit to humans, MedlinePlus reports improvement of arteriosclerosis (artery-clogging plaque) in animals who consumed alfalfa. Consult your doctor or a certified herbalist about taking alfalfa supplements as a treatment for arteriosclerosis.
Diuretic
The "PDR for Herbal Medicines" reference suggests that alfalfa may act as a mild diuretic, which may be helpful in reducing water retention.
Alfalfa Sprouts
The young sprouts, cultivated from alfalfa seeds, make a tasty addition to salads and other foods. Available in salad bars and the produce section of some groceries, alfalfa sprouts are high in protein and other nutrients, including iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium.
SproutKitchen.com reports the use of alfalfa sprouts to increase milk production in nursing mothers and to ease the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Other potential health benefits include the treating anemia and regulating blood sugar, although no scientific studies support these claims.
References
- "PDR for Herbal Medicines"; Joerg Gruenwald, Ph.D.; 2000
- MedlinePlus: Alfalfa
- Sprout Kitchen: Alfalfa Sprouts
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