Benefits of Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a livestock foraging crop and is also known as Lucerne. Its native is Southeast Asia. It is used as a cover crop and green manure. This plant is similar to clover. Alfalfa is cultivated as a livestock fodder. Its extract is used in beverages, baked goods and prepared foods. Alfalfa sprout is used in South Indian cuisines. Commonly Alfalfa seeds are used as a supplement to lower Cholesterol level.  

Kingdom: Plantae

Order: Fabales

Families: Fabaceae

Genus: Medicago

Species: Medicago sativa

Nutritional value of Alfalfa:

The important nutritional elements of Alfalfa are Thiamine (vitamin B₁), Riboflavin (B₂), Niacin (B₃), Pantothenic acid (B₅), Vitamin B₆, Folate (B₉), vitamin C, vitamin K, Calcium, Iron, Pottasium, Manganese, Mangnesium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Sodium and Zinc.

Health Benefits of Alfalfa:

It lowers cholesterol levels, improve respiratory conditions, improve digestion, develop immunity level, reduce inflammation and detoxify the body.

Words of caution: Excessive raw alfalfa consumption made adverse effects on the body due to high content of canavanine and saponins. Children, elders, persons suffering with lupus and pregnant woman should avoid consuming Alfalfa sprout. Before adding it as a nutrient regimen consults with a nutritionist or a medical professional. 
   
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