In her book, Weeds That Heal, Racheal Weaver describes Alfalfa as the "Father Of All Foods". She goes on to describe how Alfalfa's long root system provides minerals in large amounts such as iron, calcium magnesium, postassium, plus trace minerals and vitamin K. Alfalfa helps remove toxins in the body while neutralizing acids.
Here are some of the uses alfalfa can be used for: allergies, anemia, appetite, arthritis, digestion, kidney problems, lowers cholesterol, rheumatism, morning sickness, stomach ulcers, and a blood cleanser. Alfalfa is also used in relief for bloating and water retention. What caught my eye is it can help with unstable blood sugar and help to balance pituitary gland function.
During the coarse of my work day, I ask patients about their health history. If diabetic, I ask if they know their A1C level (an inflammatory marker). A level of 6.5 and over signifies higher than normal range. This matters because if the sugar levels are not controlled, healing is very slow, circulation is compromised, and big problems can result.
Did you know that our small pituitary gland tucked away in the middle of the brain controls the hormone levels of the thyroid and adrenal glands? The pitutiary gland also plays an important role in growth and development, espeically during puberty. Sometimes a tumor or growth will devleop on the pituitary gland that could either block messages to stimuate production of a hormone or could send messages to secrete too much hormone.
So let's get back to alfalfa. With the spring approaching, fields will be filled with alfalfa. I personally ordered seeds to sprout. They are quite easy to do and are useable in about 5 days. After they sprout, I place them in the refrigerator and add to sandwiches and salads. The sprouts are quite tasty. Even my skeptical husband likes them. If you are trying to regulate blood sugar, you can sprinkle some seeds on every meal you eat, or take an alfalfa supplement. Using the sprouts or seeds will also help that pituitary gland, which provides energy and balance in the body.
With spring also brings allergies. Believe it or not, alfalfa could rid you of your seasonal allergies. One story tells of a mother whose son had severe seasonal allergies. She took him to the doctor, but medications were not helpful. This mother began to look into natural remedies and began using alfalfa tablets. Reporting in just a week, her son felt better and was symptom free for the rest of the season. She gave him 4-5 tablets 3-4 times a day. Luckily, alfalfa supplements are one of the least expensive supplements out there. They can be found at your local healthfood store. I have two members of my immediate family that suffer from seasonal allergies. I have my supplements bought, and I'm ready to take on the season!
Precautions with alfalfa: do not use if taking a blood-thinner or anticoagulant medication such as Coumadin or Warfarin. Using alfalfa in large doses could cause anemia. Ask your doctor prior to using if on a blood-thinner.
Health-bite: Give alfalfa a try for seasonal allergies and overall health.