Alfalfa, also called Lucerne, Guniea grass, Lasunghas or Vilayatigawat (Bot name: Medicago sativa) is an important forage crop in many countries throughout the world. Alfalfa belongs to the plant family Leguminosae, also known as Fabaceae and like all legumes; it has the ability to fix nitrogen from the air. As a result, alfalfa is incredibly high in protein. Beyond its use in animal feed, the seeds of alfalfa can be sprouted and eaten by humans. Alfalfa has entered India from north-west viz. Baluchistan, Afghanistan, Kashmir & other countries approached from the north-west.
Alfalfa or Lucerne is rich in essential enzymes, minerals and vitamins, supports a healthy digestive system and human trials have indicated the use of the herb in menopause. Regular intake of Alfalfa supports hormonal imbalances and relief from morning sickness. Alfalfa supports as anti-oxidant & promotes nourishment to body tissues. By virtue of its deep root system, alfalfa is a rich source of the minerals calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, potassium, Manganese and trace minerals. This may be why Alfalfa is said to help reconstitute bone and is beneficial in weak bone structures. The Lucerne is also used to promote the reduction of pain and inflammation in rheumatism and arthritis. Several studies indicate that the ingestion of alfalfa helps to reduce the intestinal absorption of bad cholesterol and atherosclerotic plaque formation in animals.
There are various health benefits of this plant.
Health benefits of Alfalfa:
- Makes skin radiant
- Helps prevent cholesterol
- Improves hair health
- Used in treatment for digestive problems
- Helps clean the body
- Used to prevent cancer
- Maintains kidney and urinary health
- Reduces extra blood
- Lowers blood sugar
- Prevent kidney stones
Lucerne or Guinea grass also helps to remove toxins and neutralizes acids. Alfalfa may be beneficial for anaemia, menopause, arthritis, gout, stabilizing blood sugar levels, balancing the pituitary gland, and detoxifying the blood and kidneys. Alfalfa is good for cystitis or an inflamed bladder and promotes relief from bloating & water retention.
You can get this plant in various ways like –
- Alfalfa Herb
Alfalfa herb is cultivated as a fodder crop. Used in general debility, sexual debility, dysmenorrhoea, uterine disorders etc.
- Alfa Alfa Herb Cut
Alfalfa herb can be available in various cut sizes. It can be added to tea to enhance health benefits as the herb is full of important vitamins, minerals, fibres. Also found useful as fodder for animals.
- Alfalfa Seeds
Uses:
1. Alfalfa Seeds are bitter, astringent, nutritive, emmenagogue and improve blood cell production.
2. It also lowers bad cholesterol, reduces the incidence of atherosclerotic plaque, maintains healthy blood sugar levels and supports the pituitary gland.
Alfalfa herb contains protein, bioflavonoids, vitamins, fibres, isoflavones, minerals.
Useful as an antioxidant helps to control high blood sugar, lowers cholesterol level, helps to control excessive bleeding, digestion, joint pain and asthma control.
