A perennial flowering plant belonging to the pea family, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a rich source of vitamins A, C, E and K, and minerals iron, calcium, potassium and phosphorus.
Animal studies show that alfalfa is beneficial in reducing atherosclerosis (hardening of arteries caused by deposition of fatty material).[1] It controls blood sugar levels and increases insulin sensitivity, making it useful for diabetics.[2] Its antifungal activities are useful in preventing skin rashes.[3]
Alfalfa & Anemia
Herbalists says that alfalfa is beneficial in relieving symptoms of anemia. Its high content of vitamins C & A promotes the absorption of iron from foods.[4,5] That’s why it is effective in easing anemia symptoms such as weakness, extreme fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath and frequent infections.
How To Take It
- Take 1-2 tsp of alfalfa and steep them in cup of boiling water for 15-20 minutes. Drink this tea twice daily to boost your iron levels.
For more interesting stories, visit our Health page and read about other Natural Remedies here.
Read More:
Eat To Beat Iron-Deficiency Anemia
What’s Up Down There: What Causes Iron Deficiency Anemia & What Can I Do To Boost My Iron Levels During Pregnancy?
Iron Man: Christopher Charles Creates An Iron Fish To Cook With & Beat Anemia
References:
1. Malinow MR, McLaughlin P, Naito HK, Lewis LA, McNulty WP. Effect of alfalfa meal on shrinkage (regression) of atherosclerotic plaques during cholesterol feeding in monkeys. Atherosclerosis. 1978 May;30(1):27-43. PubMed PMID: 98169.
2. Gray AM, Flatt PR. Pancreatic and extra-pancreatic effects of the traditional anti-diabetic plant, Medicago sativa (lucerne). Br J Nutr. 1997 Aug;78(2):325-34. PubMed PMID: 9301421.
3. Jurzysta M, Waller GR. Antifungal and hemolytic activity of aerial parts of alfalfa (Medicago) species in relation to saponin composition. Adv Exp Med Biol. 1996;404:565-74. PubMed PMID: 8957325.
4. Lynch SR, Cook JD. Interaction of vitamin C and iron. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 1980;355:32-44. PubMed PMID: 6940487.
5. García-Casal MN, Layrisse M, Solano L, Barón MA, Arguello F, Llovera D, Ramírez J, Leets I, Tropper E. Vitamin A and beta-carotene can improve nonheme iron absorption from rice, wheat and corn by humans. J Nutr. 1998 Mar;128(3):646-50. PubMed PMID: 9482776.
