Alfalfa
(Medicago sativa)
Also know as Lucerne
Botanical Information
A green herbaceous plant, two to three feet high with short spikes of small purple pea-like flowers.
Working with Alfalfa
Part(s) Used
Herb
Herb Forms
Tinctures, tablets, capsules, teas, bulk herb, powder.
Affects
Alfalfa is a nutrient herb which stimulates the appetite, helps nourish the skin, hair, and nails, and is beneficial during convalescence. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and chlorophyl and may have cancer protective properties. Studies have shown that alfalfa has the ability to lower serum cholesterol. Alfalfa contains phytoestrogens and makes a gentle substitute for estrogen after menopause. Alfalfa tea is used traditionally to stimulate the supply of breast milk in nursing mothers. Alfalfa has a taste of SALTY, BITTER and a temperature of WARM.
Cautions
Has a slight blood thinning effect.
