Alfalfa Scientific Name - Medicago sativa Properties - Lowers cholesterol and reduces risk of heart disease. Also acts as an appetite stimulant, digestive aid, anti-carcinogen, breath freshener, anti-fungal, tonic, anti-haemorrhagic. Contains saponins which may aggravate anemia. Common Uses - Used as tea, made from the dried leaves. Fresh leaves may be used in salad. Parts Used - Leaves Locating & Handling - Find at local grocery store, or grow from seeds. Capsules also available at herbal stores Caution - Seeds are toxic and should not be consumed. Seeds can cause miscarriage. Leaves generally considered safe, but should be avoided by anyone with anemia. more pictures -- search botanical.com Origin - Believed to have originated in North Africa. Used in ancient India and Arabia.

© az us webworks -- All Rights Reserved.