Alternative Health

A Remedy For
Appetite loss

Although Alfalfa has also been used as a treatment for diabetes, thyroid conditions, arthritis, and water retention, only its effect on appetite has been clinically verified.

What It Is; Why It Works
In Chinese and Indian medicine, Alfalfa has been used for digestive problems for thousands of years. It has gained popularity in the West recently for its apparent cholesterol-lowering effect. Discovery of an estrogen-like action in animal tests has also led to its use as a remedy for the symptoms of menopause. In addition, the plant is a good source of vitamins A, B1, B6, C, E, and K, as well as calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc.

As a grain product, Alfalfa is used primarily as animal fodder. Only the leaves–and sometimes the seeds–are used medicinally.

Avoid If…
At customary dosage levels, Alfalfa leaf poses no problems. However, overindulgence in Alfalfa seeds or sprouts could conceivably trigger systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a painful arthritis-like condition. Avoid the sprouts if you have SLE.

Special Cautions
Use of Alfalfa leaf requires no special precautions.

Possible Drug Interactions
No interactions have been reported.

Special Information If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
No harmful effects are known.

How to Prepare
Alfalfa can be found in crushed-leaf form, and in tablets and capsules.

Typical Dosage
A dosage of 0.5 to 1 gram of Alfalfa leaf daily is sometimes recommended. Since potency of commercial products may vary, follow the manufacturer’s directions whenever available.