Alfalfa has been used as an herbal remedy since as early as the sixth century. The plant is rich in vitamins and minerals needed to combat illness. Despite its many healthful benefits, there are potential side effects, some serious, if you consume too much alfalfa leaf tea. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn that you should not use alfalfa products if you are pregnant, for young children or if you have seriously suppressed immune function.
Lowers Glucose Levels
Alfalfa has been shown to reduce blood sugar levels in individuals who use it as a supplement. The high manganese content in alfalfa may help to regulate blood sugar levels in the body. This is good news for people who have diabetes or who are at risk for developing diabetes. However, you should talk to your doctor before drinking alfalfa leaf tea on a regular basis to treat or prevent diabetes.
Lowers Cholesterol
Certain of the chemicals found in alfalfa act to lower cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the body. This keeps the cholesterol from sticking to blood cells and depositing on vessel walls. The results of a 2008 study published in the Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences found that including alfalfa in the diet decreases the buildup of fat in the arteries of animals. Although alfalfa lowers low-density liporotein cholesterol levels by preventing plaque formation, research shows that it also increases the levels of good cholesterol in the body, which is yet another health benefit.
Reduces Cancer Risk
The American Association for Cancer Research refers to a study published in the journal of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention, the findings of which suggest that the isoflavone formononetin in alfalfa sprouts is associated with reduced thyroid cancer risk. Although not clinically proven, preliminary studies imply that alfalfa may bind to some of the carcinogens that enter the body through diet and exposure to environmental hazards. Because of the plant's diuretic and laxative qualities, carcinogens can be eliminated from the body more quickly, and therefore, are less likely to stick to the cell walls, decreasing the risk of cancer.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Alfalfa is not only high in nutritional value, but it also helps to reduce inflammation in the body. These anti-inflammatory properties in combination with the plant's mild analgesic affects may help reduce pain and swelling in the joints. For these reasons, individuals who suffer from arthritis and other painful inflammatory diseases may benefit from drinking alfalfa tea.
References
- Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Effects of Alfalfa On Lipoproteins and Fatty Streak Formation In Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits
- HomeRemediesWeb.com: Alfalfa Health Benefits
- American Dietetic Association: Sprout Safety
- American Association of Cancer Research: Phytoestrogens and Thyroid Cancer Risk
- All4NaturalHealth.com: Health Benefits of Alfalfa
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