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Alfalfa

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Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)

Background

Alfalfa is a legume that has a long history of dietary and medicinal uses. A small number of animal and preliminary human studies report that alfalfa supplements may lower blood levels of cholesterol and glucose. However, most research has not been well designed. Therefore, there is not enough reliable evidence available to form clear conclusions in these areas.

Alfalfa supplements taken by mouth appear to be generally well tolerated. However, ingestion of alfalfa tablets has been associated with reports of a lupus-like syndrome or lupus flares. These reactions may be due to the amino acid L-canavanine which appears to be present in alfalfa seeds and sprouts, but not in the leaves. There are also rare cases of pancytopenia (low blood counts), dermatitis (skin inflammation), and gastrointestinal upset.

Synonyms

Al-fac-facah, arc, alfalfa weevil, buffalo herb, California clover, Chilean clover, Fabaceae, feuille de luzerne, isoflavone, jatt, kaba yonca, Leguminosae, lucerne, medicago, mielga, mu su, purple medic, phytoestrogen, purple medick, purple medicle, sai pi li ka, saranac, Spanish clover, team, weevelchek, yonja.

Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Uses based on scientific evidence	Grade^*
Atherosclerosis (cholesterol plaques in heart arteries) Several studies in animals report reductions in cholesterol plaques of the arteries after use of alfalfa. Well-designed research in humans is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn.	C
Diabetes A small number of animal studies report reductions in blood sugar levels following ingestion of alfalfa. Human data are limited, and it remains unclear if alfalfa can aid in the control of sugars in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia.	C
High cholesterol Reductions in blood levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein ("bad cholesterol") have been reported in animal studies and in a small number of human cases. High-density lipoprotein ("good cholesterol") has not been altered in these cases. Although this evidence is promising, better research is needed before a firm conclusion can be reached.	C

*Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;

B: Good scientific evidence for this use;

C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;

D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;

F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older)

5 to 10 grams of dried herb taken by mouth three times daily has been used.

Two tablets (1 gram each) of Cholestaid® (esterin processed alfalfa) taken by mouth three times daily for up to two months, then 1 tablet three times daily, has been recommended by the manufacturer.

5 to 10 milliliters (one to two teaspoonfuls) of a 1:1 solution in 25% alcohol taken by mouth three times daily has been used.

For treating high cholesterol, 40 grams of heated seeds prepared three times daily and taken by mouth with food has been used.

Children (younger than 18 years)

There is not enough scientific data to recommend alfalfa supplements for use in children, and it is not recommended due to potential side effects.

Notes:

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EditText of this page (last edited February 14, 2008)