Alfalfa is also known as lucerne, or Medicago sativa. As a member of the pea family, it is a legume, with roots extending up to 30 feet into the earth. For this reason it is able to absorb minerals that run deep in the ground, making the seeds extremely nutrient-rich. According to the online site Home Remedies, alfalfa is considered the richest land-source plant in trace minerals. Used by Native American and Chinese traditional medicine for centuries, alfalfa seeds contain vitamins and minerals including A, B1, B6, C, K, folic acid, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, carotene, iron, zinc, manganese, magnesium and silicon. Before consuming alfalfa seeds, be sure to consult with your health-care practitioner about any contraindications, especially if you are pregnant.
Arthritis
Alfalfa seeds contain compounds that inhibit inflammation, helping to ease the symptoms of painful joints. According to Home Remedies, adding 1 tsp. of alfalfa seeds to a cup of boiling water makes an effective anti-inflammatory tea when taken every day over the course of two weeks. Because alfalfa seeds are so rich in minerals, they also help to strengthen bones.
Lowering Cholesterol
According to the online herbal encyclopedia Mother Nature, alfalfa seeds contain saponins that help to prevent the absorption of cholesterol, preventing it from being deposited in blood vessels. In this regard, alfalfa seeds help prevent fatty deposits from accumulating in the body while also assisting in eliminating toxins and other harmful elements. HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, which is "good" cholesterol, is not affected. Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center reports that there have been several small, uncontrolled trials showing the positive effect that alfalfa has on lowering cholesterol levels in humans.
Fluid Retention
Alfalfa seeds contain chemicals that have a mild diuretic effect on the body, helping to reduce swelling while sweeping debris from the blood, liver and bowels. All 4 Natural Health reports that fluid retention in the kidneys can be treated with alfalfa seed tea. Because of its cleansing action, alfalfa seed can have a positive affect on the digestive and urinary system in general, as well as on the glands. As documented by Home Remedies, due to their high A, C, E, and zinc content, sprouted alfalfa seeds also may help to dissolve kidney stones.
Antioxidant
With its vitamin- and mineral-rich content, alfalfa seeds are a rich source of antioxidants and help to increase the activity of virus-killing cells. By helping to prevent the breakdown and destruction of DNA, they are strong candidates for helping assuage the effects of aging. Juicing for Health claims that by drinking a juice made of the sprouted seeds, you may be able to fortify the body by supplying it with an easily digestible way to absorb these antioxidants.
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