Family: Leguminosae, other members include beans and peas
Parts used: leaves and flowers, sprouts can also be eaten but the healing properties lie in the leaves
Alfalfa means - father of all foods. This is very fitting since it has the largest array of vitamins and minerals which feed every body system and in turn brings balance to the body. This is one herb that cannot be given a list of what it does (although I have tried to do that here) because it does so many things. I find myself putting this into many blends as I feel directed by the spirit, even though it may not "fit" into a certain category. So keep that in mind when learning about and using this "King of Herbs".
Herbal Actions
- alterative
- astringent
- bitter
- diuretic
- nutritive
- pectoral
- refrigerant
- tonic
Medicinal Properties
- aids in arthritis and gout
- inflammation
- blood cleansing and building
- anemia
- gastritis
- digestive problems
- ulcers
- liver cleansing, helps with disorders and to strengthen and aid the liver
- aids in water retention conditions due to diuretic properties
- detoxifies kidneys, aids in cystitis and inflamed bladder conditions
- eczema
- hemorrhoids
- asthma
- reduces blood cholesterol levels and plaque deposits on artery walls = heart disease and stroke prevention
- helpful in controlling high blood sugar
- constipation
- body and breath odor
- bleeding gums
- infections
- burns, cuts, bruises and prevention of scar tissue from forming
- athlete's foot and other fungal infections
- tonic for wasting conditions
- stimulates white blood cell production
- binds carcinogens in the colon and helps speed their elimination = cancer fighter and prevention
- alkalizes and detoxifies the body
Woman's Health
- estrogen- deficiency osteoporosis
- menopause conditions
- endometriosis
- increase milk supply and nourishment in breastfeeding women
Nutrition
- one of the most mineral rich food known (due to the 30 foot tap root, which can go as deep as 125 feet)
- digestive-aiding enzymes
- 8 of the essential amino acids
- calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, folic acid, silicon, and many other minerals
- virtually all know vitamins
- highest chlorophyll content of any plant
- all minerals are balanced in alfalfa's whole form which promotes absorption
Methods of Use
- tincture
- tea (infusion)
- powdered (capsules, sprinkle, pills)
- fresh
In the Garden
- I have just purchased organic sprouting seeds and use them to sow in my garden in the fall. I just toss a small handful around and come spring when it pops up, thin to about 18" apart.
- Harvest once it starts blooming by cutting down to 3 inches, then dry. Or you can gather fresh as you want it and include in salads or other culinary creations.
Recipes
Resources
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies
Herbs to the Rescue
The New Healing Herbs
Prescription for Nutritional Healing
A Handbook of Native American Herbs
Where to Get Alfalfa
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