Alfalfa is a common sight growing in farm fields across North America and other places. Farmers include this legume with grasses to add extra nutrition for livestock, and people eat alfalfa sprouts and make them into juice. The plant also has a long history of medicinal uses, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health. Consult a qualified health care provider before beginning any herbal therapy.
Alfalfa Potential
Studies with animals and humans indicate alfalfa supplements may reduce levels of blood sugar and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, the so-called bad cholesterol, according to the NIH. Additionally, some animal research shows that alfalfa consumption decreases cholesterol plaque in arteries that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. The NIH says more research is necessary to confirm these benefits.
Alfalfa Tea for Arthritis
In some parts of the world, including the southern Appalachian region of the United States, alfalfa is a folk remedy for symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. HolisticOnline.com recommends drinking alfalfa leaf tea rather than taking other alfalfa supplements for this treatment. The leaves contain the important minerals but have insignificant amounts of an amino acid, L-canavanine, that is present in alfalfa seeds and to a lesser extent in sprouts. L-canavanine can cause serious side effects in some people when taken in large amounts. The NIH cautions that no research supports the use of alfalfa for treating arthritis.
Gout Contraindication
Alfalfa is contraindicated for people with gout, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. This type of arthritis typically causes intense pain in one joint and develops rapidly, then dissipates over a few weeks. Alfalfa contains a high level of purines, a substance that can result in excess uric acid production in the body. This can lead to the formation of crystals in the joints, which cause gout attacks.
Other Contraindications and Interactions
People allergic to grasses or legumes should not take alfalfa supplements, cautions the NIH. Anyone with a history of lupus or who have family members with lupus also should not take alfalfa supplements. Because alfalfa may lower blood sugar, individuals taking medications to regulate blood sugar may need to monitor blood sugar more closely if also taking alfalfa supplements. Alfalfa contains vitamin K, which can interfere with the effects of anticoagulant medication. Alfalfa sprout extracts show estrogenic properties in laboratory testing, so patients with estrogen-sensitive cancers such as breast or ovarian cancer should not take alfalfa. Alfalfa supplements also may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills and hormonal therapy.
Side Effects
Alfalfa supplements generally are not associated with side effects. Some people experience abdominal discomfort, gas, and more frequent stools or diarrhea, according to the MSKCC. If dermatitis develops, it may be an allergic reaction to alfalfa. Food poisoning has occurred due to bacteria on fresh sprouts. Alfalfa tablets have been linked to flare-ups of lupus and symptoms similar to lupus, according to the NIH. This may be due to the L-canavanine content. Some symptoms may be similar to arthritis, including joint inflammation, pain and swelling, and there also may be muscle pain, fatigue, kidney abnormalities and abnormal immune system function.
