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20.
MEDICAGO SATIVA
Eng.
= Alfalfa; Ind. = Lasunghas
Habitat
and Description
It
is a perennial herb that grows throughout the world in a variety of
climates. Alfalfa grows to
about three feet and has blue-violet flowers.
It has green alternate leaves.
It is native of Europe. The
leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including
calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene.
Parts
used : Whole plant and leaf
Actions
: Laxative, diuretic, digestive, alterative, antipyretic, tonic.
Therapeutic
uses
·
In
Arthritis and related disorders
This
herb is a folk remedy for Arthritis.
Due to its diuretic action, alfalfa tea made from seeds is highly
useful in case of rheumatoid Arthritis and osteoarthritis.
It can also be used in gout with beneficial results.
It is essential to take four to five cups of tea for at least one
month to have desirable effect.
·
Other
uses
It
is useful in respiratory
disorders such as sinusitis and bronchitis, high cholesterol,
hyperacidity, high blood pressure, diabetes.
It is a good laxative and a natural diuretic. It has been used to treat kidney stones and to
relieve fluid retention. It
can also be used by lactating mothers to enrich their milk with nutrients.
It is useful in the treatment of urinary tract infections, and
kidney, bladder and prostate disorders.
Mode
of Administration and Dosage
Cook
the seeds in a glass, not metallic, pan, for half and hour with the lid
on. Let it simmer, not boil.
After cooking, strain the liquid.
Store in a refrigerator and drink as required.
Alfalfa can be used in the form of juice or tea extracted from
fresh leaves.
Precaution
Alfalfa
contains a slightly toxic amino acid L-canavanine that
can cause symptoms similar to those of SLE.
It may be possible that 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.
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