Alfalfa, also called lucerne, is a common forage crop in many countries and is used as silage and hay for livestock. It comes from the Arabic word al-fasfasa, meaning ‘fresh fodder.’ There have been reports that alfalfa leaf preparations were used in the relief of kidney and prostate disorders. It is also a commercial source of chlorophyll and carotene.
Alfalfa description and composition
Alfalfa belongs to the family Fabaceae and is native to America, Europe, China, south Africa and the middle east. The primary reason for cultivation is to produce feed for dairy cows due to its high protein content and digestible fiber, but it has found medicinal value over the years.
Alfalfa contains saponins, phytoestrogens (coumestans and isoflavones), vitamins A, C, E, and k1, minerals calcium, magnesium, and potassium, chlorophyll, and carotenoids.
The roots of alfalfa go deep into the soil, making it drought resistant, and the outer roots branch outward and aid the plant in fixing nitrogen through nodules that support nitrogen-fixing bacteria. The leaves grow as trios and are greenish in color, narrow, and toothed towards the tip. The flowers are purplish in color and occur in clusters with notable spirals. The stems are thin, branching, and flexible.
Alfalfa cultivation
Alfalfa does well in temperate/subtropical regions with deep, well-drained loamy soils of neutral pH of 6.8-7.5. It requires full sun. Alfalfa is propagated from seeds; sometimes farmers inoculate seeds with rhizobium bacteria to encourage nitrogen fixing. Loosen the soil first before sowing, and sow close to the surface because it needs light to grow. Consistently water the soil, but not too much to avoid waterlogging.
Alfalfa is harvested when a tenth of the plants’ strands have open flowers. Use a shear, sickle, or scythe to cleanly cut the top part (leaves, young flowering tops) about 10 centimeters from the soil. Dry the alfalfa and store it in breathable bags or small bales as long as they stay dry. Avoid leaving moisture content, as it encourages mold, and direct sunlight degrades vitamin content.
ALFALFA BENEFITS AND USES
Alfalfa Traditional uses
Ancient Arabs used it as a diuretic in various bladder problems. The leaves were also used for relieving dyspepsia and as an antiasthmatic. It has also been herbally used to reduce arthritis inflammation and lower sugar. It was also used to promote lactation traditionally.
Alfalfa Benefits and pharmacological profile
Anti-inflammatory- in vitro studies found a chloroform extract of alfalfa to reduce stimulation of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor that modulate inflammation. Choon choi 2013
Anxiolytic effect-methanolic extract of 100 mg/kg produced an anxiolytic effect in mice. Sing Bora 2012
Aids in cholesterol reduction-the saponins and fiber bind in vitro to cholesterol, reducing reabsorption and lowering cholesterol. Alfalfa seeds help to normalize serum cholesterol concentrations in patients with type 2 hyperlipoproteinemia. Al Sanafi 2021
Reduces blood sugars- The manganese content in a serving of 62.5 g/kg decreases hyperglycemia, as studied in diabetic mice. A study of aqueous extract 250-500 mg/kg for 4 weeks in diabetic rats also reduced fasting glucose levels. Farsani 2026
Menopausal relief– it was found to reduce hot flushes and night sweats in menopausal women when used in combination with sage, a direct effect of the phytoestrogens found within alfalfa. De Leo 1998
Antioxidant- Chlorophyl acts as a scavenger of free radicals in the body, supports antioxidant defense, and protects cells from oxidative and inflammatory damage. Raeeszadeh 2021
Alfalfa Dosing
Powders– dried leaves dried and crushed
Tablets/capsules– powdered leaves are compacted into tablets
Teas- 2 teaspoons of dried powder mixed with 200 ml of water and boiled for 10 minutes.
5-10 grams of dried herbs (leaves) thrice a day.
Seeds (40 grams) three times a day for high cholesterol.
Alfalfa Side-effects and Interactions
Common side effects, especially if not well cleaned and prepared, are:
- Diarrhea and abdominal cramping
- Bacterial infections like salmonella
- Hyperkalemia
- Gas, bloating and loose stools in high doses due to saponin content
Avoid in autoimmune diseases due to the presence of L-canavanine, which interferes with the immune system.
Avoid use in pregnancy due to possible uterine stimulation.
NB-Alfalfa often harbors pathogens like Escherichia coli and salmonella; hence, it should be thoroughly cleaned and prepared before consumption.
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