Alfalfa is a perennial, flowering plant that produces roots growing up to 30 feet into the earth. Its flowers, leaves and seeds have been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries, both as a general health tonic and to treat several ailments, including kidney conditions and cardiovascular disease. It may also promote menstruation and lactation in women. Consult your doctor to determine if taking alfalfa is appropriate for you.
Effect on Cholesterol
Alfalfa leaves and sprouts are high in fiber and contain compounds called saponins. The combination of these two ingredients may be effective in lowering absorption of cholesterol from ingested food. Medline Plus indicates that alfalfa can lower both total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein, or LDL. LDL is bad cholesterol that may produce fatty deposits on arterial walls when its level in the blood is too high. These deposits, also called plaque, raise the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack and stroke.
Effect on the Urinary Tract
Alfalfa is traditionally used to treat kidney and bladder problems. Both its leaves and seeds have diuretic properties, increasing production of urine and potentially relieving fluid retention. Alfalfa is also rich in zinc and in vitamins A, C and E, components that may help dissolve some types of kidney stones. Drink lots of water or other fluids when taking alfalfa for urinary conditions, aiming for at least 8 glasses of liquid daily.
Effect on the Female Reproductive System
Practitioners of traditional medicine prescribe alfalfa to promote menstrual discharge and to support milk production during lactation. Compounds called alkaloids in alfalfa seeds may be partially responsible for this effect. Alfalfa also contains phytoestrogens, plant components that have properties similar to the hormone estrogen. In a study published in 2003 in "The Journal of Agricultural Chemistry," alfalfa and other legumes were found to interact with estrogen receptors in cultured breast cells.
Recommendations and Precautions
Alfalfa is available in capsules or as compressed tablets from most health food stores. It may be taken several times daily and is generally considered safe for most adults. However, excessive or long-term use of alfalfa seeds may cause symptoms of lupus erythmatosus, an autoimmune disease, in some people. Alfalfa should not be taken during pregnancy or by anyone with a hormone-sensitive disorder. Consult your doctor to discuss your situation and to determine if taking alfalfa is advisable for you.
References
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Alfalfa
- Aurora Healh Care: Alfalfa
- Home Remedies Web: Alfalfa
- Meline Plus: Alfalfa
- Vitamins & Health Supplements Guide: Alfalfa
- "Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry; Evaluation of the Estrogenic Effects of Legume Extracts Containing Phytoestrogens; S. Boue et al; 2003
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