The scientific or botanical name for Alfalfa is Medicago Sativa. It descends from the Fabaceae (Pea family) family. The name Alfalfa is derived from the Arabic term Al-fac-facah, “father of all foods”. The genus name, Medicago, refers to ancient Media of western Persia, where this plant is thought to have originated; the genus name could be interpreted to mean “sowed by the Medians”. The species name, Sativa, means “cultivated”; it is normally given to plants that have been in cultivation since ancient times.

There are many health benefits of Alfalfa plant. The physiological effects include alterative, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, galactagogue, nutritive, stomachic, phytoestrogenic, tonic. The constituents of Alfalfa are chlorophyll, betaine (a digestive enzyme), electrolytes, fiber, protein, beta-cerotene, vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, octacosanol, calcium, chromium, copper, phosphorous, manganese, iron, zinc, silicon, fluorine, isoflavones, coumarins, alkaloids, and steroidal saponins.

Alfalfa’s Medicinal Uses

Alfalfa is a superb nutritive, healthy food and also develops the body’s absorption of nutrients. It is particularly beneficial for people who are convalescing, and it can be used as a nutritive tonic during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. It is so rich in chlorophyll that it is grown commercially as a source of this nutritive compound.

Alfalfa is used to cure anemia, arteriosclerosis, arthritis, blood pressure problems (high or low), bruising, celiac disease, high cholesterol, colitis, diabetes, fatigue, fever, indigestion, jaundice, menopause symptoms, menstrual problems, obesity, osteoporosis, peptic ulcers, and varicose veins. It also helps get rid of surplus uric acid from the human body.

Topically, Alfalfa is used as a moistening bath herb, facial steam, hair wash, and poultice for wounds.

Alfalfa’s Edible Uses

Alfalfa’s young leaves and flowers may be consumed as salad greens or potherbs. Seed sprouts can be added to salads. Alfalfa is often added to other teas to improve their taste and nutrient value. Its taste resembles the smell of summer-cut hay.

Alfalfa’s Other Uses

It is a sign of rich soil wherever Alfalfa grows in large quantity. In their search for nutrients deep in the soil, its roots can reach 120 feet in depth. Alfalfa often is planted in uncultivated fields and then turned under to enrich and fix nitrogen in the soil.

Cows produce more milk and chickens lay more eggs when Alfalfa is an ingredient of their diet. Green cuttings of Alfalfa are said to frighten bedbugs. Alfalfa has long been thought to attract prosperity.

Important note: Alfalfa is believed to be safe and harmless. Nevertheless, there has been some worry about the safety of eating big amounts of the sprouts, which contain the alkaloid canavanine. For that reason, people with lupus or rheumatoid arthritis are advised to keep away from eating Alfalfa sprouts; the leaves and flowers, however, are safe for eating. Those undergoing blood-thinning medication should keep away from Alfalfa.