What is Alfalfa?
Alfalfa has a long history of dietary and medicinal use. Alfalfa is usually taken by eating part of the plant. There is a risk of lupus due to a certain chemical in alfalfa seeds and sprouts that is not found in the leaves.
Side Effects
Stomach discomfort, diarrhea, gas, gout, headache, more bowel movements, skin rash, itching, breathing problems, skin color changes, sweating, blood sugar changes, bleeding, bruising, lupus-like effects, antinuclear antibodies in the blood, muscle pain, fatigue, wound/skin healing changes, infections, kidney problems, changes in number of blood cells, low blood potassium, high thyroid hormone levels, estrogen-like effects, miscarriage, sunburn.
Reactions / Interactions
Anti-estrogen drugs (like Tamoxifen), estrogens (like Premarin or birth control pills), blood thinners (like warfarin (Coumadin)), aspirin, pain relievers/ non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), alcohol, thyroid drugs, seizure medications, cholesterol-lowering drugs, or herbs and supplements with similar effects.
What is Alfalfa?
Alfalfa has a long history of dietary and medicinal use. Alfalfa is usually taken by eating part of the plant. There is a risk of lupus due to a certain chemical in alfalfa seeds and sprouts that is not found in the leaves.
Side Effects
Stomach discomfort, diarrhea, gas, gout, headache, more bowel movements, skin rash, itching, breathing problems, skin color changes, sweating, blood sugar changes, bleeding, bruising, lupus-like effects, antinuclear antibodies in the blood, muscle pain, fatigue, wound/skin healing changes, infections, kidney problems, changes in number of blood cells, low blood potassium, high thyroid hormone levels, estrogen-like effects, miscarriage, sunburn.
Reactions / Interactions
Anti-estrogen drugs (like Tamoxifen), estrogens (like Premarin or birth control pills), blood thinners (like warfarin (Coumadin)), aspirin, pain relievers/ non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), alcohol, thyroid drugs, seizure medications, cholesterol-lowering drugs, or herbs and supplements with similar effects.
Safety
Avoid alfalfa if allergic to alfalfa, clover or grass. Avoid if history of lupus. Use cautiously with stroke or hormone conditions (like breast tenderness, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, menstrual problems) or diabetes. Avoid with aspirin or any aspirin products, ibuprofen, blood-thinners (like warfarin), or if history of thyroid disease, gout, blood clots, seizures, liver, or kidney disease. Avoid before any surgery/dental/diagnostic procedures that may have a risk of bleeding, and avoid use immediately after these procedures. Alfalfa may be contaminated with dangerous bacteria (like E. coli, salmonella, listeria). Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Dosage
Adults (18 years and older)
Dried herb, tablets, liquid extract and seeds are available.
Children (18 years and younger)
Not enough scientific data available.
Evidence
Condition: Atherosclerosis Grade: C
Condition: Diabetes Grade: C
Condition: High cholesterol Grade: C
Disclaimer: These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
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While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy. The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.
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