Alfalfa in herbal medicine: Properties of alfalfa

Scientific name

Medicago sativa

Family

Leguminosae

Origin

Plant grown everywhere, mainly as a fodder

Synonyms

Parts Used

Drug consisting of the leaves

Chemical constituents

• Saponins (medicagenic acid and ederagenin);
• Soluble and insoluble fibers;
• Phytoestrogens (cumestrol);
• Vitamins (B, E, D, provitamin A, K);
• Pigments with antioxidant activity;
• Mineral salts.

Alfalfa in Herbal Medicine: Properties of Alfalfa

Alfalfa, grown in agriculture as fodder for livestock, is considered a valid restorative remedy. It is taken as a source of vitamins and minerals or as a preventive supplement against certain cancerous degeneration of intestinal cells. Widely used during convalescence, all "Alfalfa are ascribed to stimulating properties of appetite and hepato-biliary functions.
The infusion and hydroalcoholic extracts not titrated in active principles are not recommended.
For external use, alfalfa is used for its nourishing, elasticizing and emollient dermofunctional properties.