Origin, Distribution and Composition
Alfalfa is nutritionally one of the most versatile herbs yet discovered. It is leguminous herb which grows upto 50cms in height. It is rich green alternate leaves, purplish flowers and adapts itself to widely varying conditions of soil and climate.
Alfalfa appears to have been discovered by the Arabs who called it kings of king of plants and the father of all foods. They have used it for centuries to feed thoroughbred horses. The Persians recognized it as a healing grass.
Alfalfa is native of Europe. It is now widely cultivated in the temperate regions, the subtropics and it higher altitudes in the tropics. It is grown throughout India.
Alfalfa is a valuable source of vitamin A, B, D, E and G. it also has some vitamin C and K. the rich quality, quantity and proper balance of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, chlorine, sodium, potassium and silicon is of special value Alfalfa. All these elements are needed for proper functioning of the various organs in the body.
Investigations made by US department of agriculture have revealed that Alfalfa contains one and half times more proteins than grains like wheat and corns and that is carbohydrate contain in only half of that found in grains. The Alfalfa protein contains amino acids such as Arginine, lysine, Threonine, and tryptophan. These amino acids supplement any deficiencies due to lack of essential nutrients in the diet.
Alfalfa is one the richest sources of dietary fiber and chlorophyll. These nutrients have induced nutritional authorities of experiment with Alfalfa as a ready form of easily digestible food as and a protein concentrate for supplementing protein deficient food such as vegetables.
Healing power and Curative Properties
The seeds, leaves and the stem of alfalfa plant have important properties derived from the roots of the plant which reach up to 12 meters in to subsoil and absorb the elusive trace minerals from the depths. The most important of these trace minerals is manganese which is vital to human digestive system in its manufacture of insulin.
Alfalfa is an outstanding alkalizing food. It contains 130 to 142 mg. of alkali forming elements in every 100 grams. These make it a valuable remedy for several ailments. It is slightly laxative, digestive, and diuretic and serves an excellent tonic. It augments the peristalsis or movement of the bowels, improves digestion and ensures better assimilation of foods. Alfalfa builds for healthy and vigorous old age and resistance to infection.
Dropsy
An effective diuretic, alfalfa acts gently upon the kidneys. It can be successfully employed in the treatment of the inflammation of the bladder and the dropsy, a disease marked by accumulation of fluid in the body.
Heart Disorders
Alfalfa in the form of juice has been found very effective in most arterial problems and heart disease. Only fresh leaves of the plant may be used for this purpose. The juice of fresh alfalfa however is strong and potent and is best taken with carrot juice. in this combination the individual benefits of each juice are intensified.
Respiratory Disorders
Alfalfa juice, as a rich source of chlorophyll, is useful in respiratory disorders and discomforts, particularly those relating to the sinuses and the lungs.
Stomach Disorders
The seeds of alfalfa known as king of sprouts are of immense value in the maintenance of health. Their daily use helps build up immunity to stomach distress. Alfalfa in the form of tea provides vital alkalizing benefits for hyperacidity. It tends to control the flow of hydrochloric acid, aiding the action of gastric enzyme, pepsin. The addition of mint to alfalfa tea helps settle disturbed stomachs after a rich meal. It also refreshes to palate and makes an excellent morning drink.
Arthritis
Alfalfa tea especially made from the seeds is if great value in arthritis as it helps alkalize the food residues in the body. Six or seven cups of it should be taken daily by arthritics for at least two weeks.
Hair disorders
The juice of alfalfa in combination with those of carrot and lettuce, if taken daily, helps the growth of hair to remarkable extent. Such combination of juices is rich in elements which are beneficial for the roots of the hair.
High Blood Pressure
The herb is an effective remedy for high blood pressure. It contains all the elements necessary for softening the hardened arteries, which characterize high blood pressure.
Methods of uses:
Alfalfa is used in many ways or forms. The seeds are useful in the form of sprouts. They are delicious and nourishing in salads and soups as well as in sandwiches. Alfalfa can be used in the form of juice extracted from its leaves. It is also used extensively in the form of tea which is made from seed as well as from the dried leaves of the plant. The tea is prepared by boiling alfalfa seeds in an enamel pan with the lid on, for half an hour. It is strained, squeezing or pressing the seeds dry, and allowed to cool. Cold or hot water and honey may be added to taste before use.
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