Alfalfa is a leguminous plant that has been cultivated for over two thousand years. Although most often used as forage for horses and other animals, it has been largely known to cure certain human illnesses and improve the immune system. Alfalfa is helpful in cleansing toxins from the bloodstream, fighting infections in the body, hindering tooth decay, treating anemia, healing ulcers, and boosting the immune system.
The roots of the alfalfa grow deep into the soil and are able to probe out minerals and trace elements that more shallow-rooted plants cannot reach. This makes the alfalfa a rich source of vitamins, all the eight essential amino acids, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. You can chew the leaves raw, add them to your sandwich and salad, or sauté them in oil and serve as a tender vegetable.
Alfalfa products are widely available in most health food stores. but if you happen to grow this plant at home, you can try making your own variations. Here are some things you can make with alfalfa:
1 - Alfalfa leaf tea
Alfalfa leaf tea has superior nutritive values. It is very easily absorbed by the body and therefore it is very good for children and the elderly. It may have a raw bland flavor but becomes tasty when mixed with fresh mint. To brew alfalfa tea, steep 1 teaspoon alfalfa leaves in 2 cups boiling water for about 10 minutes.
2 – Alfalfa powder
Alfalfa leaves can be dried and then finely ground into a flourlike powder. This powder form can then be taken as a food supplement. It can be added to a glass of fresh juice or to your usual drinking water. You can also add alfalfa powder when you make your own bread (1/2 cup alfalfa powder to 5 cups flour), soups, and stews. Keep in mind, however, that some hay fever sufferers turn out to be allergic to alfalfa hay dust.
3 – Alfalfa seed
These tiny alfalfa seeds produce the sweetest and tenderest of sprouts. These fresh sprouts make a perfect addition to sandwiches, for they will not go limp after a few hours like lettuce. Add them to salads or eat them raw like a crunchy snack. The seeds that did not sprout can be used to make tea: just add 1 teaspoon seeds to 2 cups boiling water. The mild-tasting brew is said to be beneficial to people who suffer from arthritis.
For over two thousand years, alfalfa has been a great contributor to good health and a strong immune system. Try to incorporate alfalfa in your diet to benefit from its healthful properties. You can later on develop your own recipes and products made from this super nutritious plant.