The perennial herb Alfalfa has been around for centuries, in fact it is known as the "father of plants".
Alfalfa plants have an amazing root system that reaches down as far as 20 feet. As a result they are able to tap into nutrients and trace minerals far below the earths surface making alfalfa a very nutrient rich plant. Because of its valuable nutrients and minerals, it has been used by the Chinese for centuries to treat several health conditions.
Benefits:
- Cures kidney problems, and relieves fluid retention and swelling.
- Cures auto-immune disorder.
- Heals arthritis and helps reduce associated swelling and inflammation.
- Nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular and urinary system.
- Cleanses the blood, liver and bowel.
- Lowers cholesterol levels. The fibers and chemicals in alfalfa seem to stick to cholesterol, preventing it from remaining in the blood or depositing itself on arterial walls.
- Rids the body of harmful cholesterol.
- Prevents strokes.
- Heals whooping cough.
- Seeds of the alfalfa plant are used topically as a poultice for boils and wounds.
- The manganese in alfalfa is believed to lower blood sugar levels, making it ideal for diabetics.
- Relieves constipation.
- Contains essential enzymes that help with digestion.
- Helps to fight cancer by helping to bind carcinogens in the colon, and is effective in their speedy elimination.
- Helps with drug and alcohol dependency because of its alkalizing properties, which promote detoxification.
- Because of the high vitamin A content Alfala is good for the eyes.
Nutrients found in Alfalfa:
Alfalfa contains all of the nutrients needed by the human body. These include:- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Trace elements
- Amino acids
- Digestive enzymes
- Phytoestrogens
- Saponims
- Sterols
- Alkaloids
- Flavonoids
- Coumarin
- Acids
- Proteins - 18.9% making it a very high source or protein.
- Sugars
- Fiber
Vitamins, Minerals and Trace Elements
Alfalfa is rich in vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. The chart below lists the many nutrients found in alfalfa.| Vitamins, Minerals and Trace Elements in Alfalfa | ||
| Vitamins | Minerals | Trace Elements |
| A | Calcium | Nickel |
| D | Phosphorus | Lead |
| E | Potassium | Strontium |
| K | Chlorine | Palladium |
| U | Sodium | |
| C | Sulfur | |
| B1 | Copper | |
| B2 | Magnesium | |
| B6 | Manganese | |
| B12 | Iron | |
| Niacin | Cobalt | |
| Biotin | Boron | |
| Panthothanic acid | ||
| Inocitole | Molybdenum | |
Folic acid
| ||
Start adding alfalfa to your diets and enjoy the benefits. Throw fresh sprouts on your sandwich, in a fresh green salad, add a handful into your blender along with fruit and yogurt for a yummy smooth, just be creative to get those greens in. Adding sprouting seeds to your long term storage is a great way to add living food to your diet.
The benefits of alfalfa are gained in supplement form, fresh sprouts, fresh alfalfa grass and tea. To sprout your own seeds, you will need a sprouting tray and sprouting seeds. You can find these at many health food stores, Alison's Pantry, or online at Amazon
Always speak to a physician before taking any dietary supplements.
Pregnant women should not use alfalfa as it can cause miscarriage.
References:
http://herbs.lovetoknow.com/Alfalfa_Nutrients
http://www.homeremediesweb.com/alfalfa_health_benefits.php
http://www.all4naturalhealth.com/benefits-of-alfalfa.html#INV
