Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
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The "father of all foods" is considered alfalfa, and it is deserving of the moniker. This herb has been utilized for gastrointestinal issues, jaundice, and issues with blood clotting in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine. According to some researchers, it has also been applied to help nursing moms produce more milk.

It is a member of the Leguminosae family, usually referred to as the Fabaceae and goes by the Latin name Medicago sativa.

Common Names

  • English name: Bastard Medic, Alfalfa
  • Hindi name: Lusanghas
  • Sanskrit name: Ashvabala
  • Kannada name: Vilaayitihullu, Lusarnesoppu
  • Tamil name: Kutiraimacal

Morphology

It can reach a height of 50 cm with this leguminous herb. Its flowers are purple, alternating, and clove-shaped. The apex and occasionally the base of the 5 to 20-mm long leaves are dentate. Fruits are golden to brown in color and have ten to twenty seeds each. Its extensive root system absorbs nutrients from the body, contributing to its high mineral and vitamin content.

Habitat

This herb is indigenous to parts of Europe and Southwest Asia. It is extensively grown in temperate and subtropical areas. Additionally, it is grown throughout India.

Nutrients Present in Alfalfa 

Aside from vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, Medicago sativa is particularly high in vitamin K. Minerals including silicon, calcium, manganese, chlorine, and sodium are also present. All of these are necessary to keep the body's important organs operating correctly. Its manganese content enhances the production of insulin for healthy digestion. It contains the most chlorophyll and is frequently used to create liquid chlorophyll, which is highly nutritious. Additionally, it contains eight known digestive enzymes that improve the body's fundamental nitrogen exchange and allow meals to be adequately absorbed.

Medicinal Uses

  • Both blood purification and allergy relief are accomplished by Medicago sativa.
  • Vitamin K-rich leaves aid in good blood clotting and the treatment of jaundice.
  • It reduces morning stiffness and offers relief from all forms of arthritis.
  • It lowers cholesterol and blood pressure due to the high concentration of alkaloids present.
  • It enhances milk production when nursing and is used as a vitamin K supplement.
  • It remineralizes the teeth and stops tooth decay in its tracks.
  • The greatest laxative, digestive aid, and tonic for the body increasing peristaltic movements thanks to its alkaline qualities.
  • As a diuretic, it helps the body get rid of excess water.

Health Benefits

  • Dropsy or Edema - It is a powerful diuretic that is gentle on the kidneys and beneficial in treating urinary diseases including inflammation and dropsy that are brought on by the body's tendency to retain urine and retain water.

  • Stomach-Related Disorders - Alfalfa seeds are revered as the "King of Sprouts" and are extremely beneficial for preserving bodily health. Regular usage of this herb provides immune support and strengthens the immune system, which helps to prevent stomach discomfort. Its alkalizing ability lessens hyperacidity and regulates the stomach's production of HCl (hydrochloric acid).

  • Heart-Related Disorders - Its juice has been discovered to be useful in treating artery issues and other heart-related issues. Its fresh leaves are also used to stop the absorption of harmful cholesterol and stop the development of atherosclerotic plaques. It has the potential to lessen the intestinal absorption of both exogenous and endogenous cholesterol when combined with carrot juice. Its leaf extract is extremely effective and powerful.

  • Arthritis - Alfalfa plays a significant part in arthritis by aiding in the body's natural process of alkalinizing dietary waste. For at least two weeks, consume 6 to 7 cups of it daily.

  • Respiratory Disorders - As a result of this herb's abundance of chlorophyll, it is effective in treating respiratory conditions, particularly sinusitis.

  • High Blood Pressure - This herb has all the beneficial components that are required to maintain blood pressure and ease clogged arteries.

  • Hair-Related Disorders - Daily consumption of alfalfa, carrots, and lettuce enhances hair development. This mixture of these hair ayurvedic products contains a number of essential components that provide strength to the hair's roots.

Parts Used

Seeds and leaves

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