Herbal Supplements For A Healthier Life

Botanical & Identity

Botanical Name

Medicago sativa

Common Names

Alfalfa, Lucerne

Plant Family

Fabaceae (Legume family)

Part Used

Aerial parts (leaves, flowers), sometimes seeds and sprouts

Taste Profile

Mild, grassy, slightly bitter

Energetics

Cooling, moistening, nutritive
Alfalfa

Summary & Classification

Short Summary

Alfalfa is a highly nutritive plant rich in vitamins, minerals, and chlorophyll. Traditionally used as a general tonic, it supports detoxification, hormonal balance, and digestive function. It is often considered a foundational herb in building vitality.

Herb Actions

detoxifying agent, diuretic, phytoestrogenic, tonic, nutritive

Herbal Category

tonic

Medicine System

nutritional therapy, western, naturopathy

Active Ingredients

Vitamins A, C, E, K,
,
B-complex
,
Calcium
,
Magnesium
,
Potassium
,
Iron
,
Chlorophyll
,
Phytoestrogens (coumestrol)
.

Chemistry & Effectiveness

Active Ingredients

Mechanism of Action

Delivers dense nutrition and chlorophyll that supports tissue oxygenation, cellular regeneration, and gentle detoxification. Phytoestrogens may help balance hormones in peri- and postmenopausal women.

Modern Applications

Used as a nutritive tonic for fatigue, anaemia, hormonal fluctuations, bone and joint health, and detox protocols. Popular as a green supplement in powders and capsules, or as sprouts in whole food diets.

Traditional Uses & Preparation

Traditional Uses

Used traditionally as a blood and liver cleanser, vitality tonic, and digestive aid. Commonly fed to livestock for its strengthening effects. In folk medicine, often recommended for arthritis, poor appetite, and menstrual regulation.

Preparation & Usage

Infusion of dried aerial parts, powdered in capsules, added to smoothies, or used fresh in sprout form.

Recommended Dosage

2–6 g/day dried herb or equivalent in capsules or tea. Sprouts can be consumed freely as part of diet.

Safety & Warnings

Contraindications

Avoid large doses in autoimmune conditions such as lupus (due to L-canavanine). Use with caution in hormone-sensitive conditions.

Drug Interactions

May interfere with anticoagulants (vitamin K). Monitor if using hormonal therapy or immunosuppressants.

Pregnancy & Lactation

use only under professional supervision.

Side Effects

Generally well tolerated; high doses may cause mild digestive upset or worsen autoimmune symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Scientific & Source Info

Scientific References

– Abd El-Maksoud, A. et al. (2014). Medicinal and health benefit of Medicago sativa – A review. – Hirai, N. et al. (2003). Effects of alfalfa-derived phytoestrogens on hormone levels.

Sourcing Notes

Cultivated globally, including South Africa. Preferred source is organic, pesticide-free dried leaf for herbal use. Sprouts should be grown in sanitary conditions due to bacterial risk in raw consumption.

Product Linkage

Used In Products

Pancreas capsules

Pancreas 120’s

R440.00