Guest guest Posted August 7, 2006 Report Share Posted August 7, 2006 Alfalfa ~Medicago sativa L.~ Common Uses: High Cholesterol (Hypercholesterolemia) Menstruation and Menopause Discomfort Active Constituents: Saponins, Triterpenoidal Glycosides Adverse Effects: Diarrhea and Stomach Upset (rare), Photosensitivity (teroretical), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) Reactivation, Cautions/Contraindication: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Pregnancy and Lactation (Seeds only) Drug Interactions: Anti-Coagulants (possible), Hormone Replacement Therapy and Birth Control Pills Doses: Dried Herb: 5- 10 g three times daily, Liquid Extract: (1:1 to 25% alcohol), 5-10 mL three times daily. Description: Alfalfa is native to Eastern Mediterranean Europe and the Middle East and was first mentioned in literature by Pliny (AD 23-79) as being introduced to Greece by Darius, King of Persia (550-486 BC). Alfalfa can now be found throughout the world. Originally cultivated by the Greeks and Romans, alfalfa is currently produced primarily as a fodder crop in North America. This perennial herb, with clover like, three lobe leaves and spiraling seed pods, grows to approximately 36 inches or 1 meter. Its flowers range in color from purplish blue to yellow. Parts Used: While sprouted seeds are commonly eaten, the aerial parts are used medicinally. Traditional Use: Although alfalfa has been used medicinally in Traditional (to treat digestive disorder) and Ayurvedic Medicine (for digestive conditions, as a diuretic and in the treatment of arthritis), it is not often mentioned in North American textbooks of herbal medicine. Current Medicinal Use: Modern day herbalists consider alfalfa to be a good general tonic, due largely to its reputation as an excellent source of vitamins, minerals and protein. While more research is needed, alfalfa may be effective in reducing high cholesterol levels. Evidence from traditional use suggests that alfalfa may also be helpful in managing menopause and menstrual discomfort. ~Source Natural Medicine Guide to the 50 Most Common Medicinal Herbs by Heather Boon, BScPhm, PhD and Michael Smith, BPharm, MRPharmS, ND~ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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