SCIENTIFIC NAME:  Medicago sativa

 

HINDI NAME: Lusanghas

 

ENGLISH NAME: Bastard medic or Alfa alfa

 

FAMILY: Fabaceae

SHORT DESCRIPTION

Regarded as the ‘father of all foods’ with usable parts as leaves, seeds and sprouts. It has been used in Ayurveda medicine for treating conditions like jaundice, digestive disorders and blood clotting conditions. It contains a lot of minerals and vitamins, a multi-nutrient powder rich in vitamins, magnesium, phosphorous, and minerals, potent antioxidants. It has a drying effect, which may aggravate Vata and cause emaciation. For such people, it is best to take it only on occasion or in conjunction with some oil for lubrication.

USES/BENEFITS/DISEASES

• Stimulates energy and is a healthy tonic or rasayan
• Suppresses hunger without causing weight gain
• Has galactagogue (lactating) action in the reproductive system
• Has blood purifying action
• Natural Vitamin K supplement
• Fat burner

PRECAUTIONS/ SIDE EFFECTS

• Consult with your dietician if having any chronic health conditions like diabetes, blood pressure and pregnancy and lactation etc.
• should not be taken for an extended period of time because they can cause side effects such as an increase in autoimmune diseases such as lupus.
• Some people's skin may also become extremely sensitive to the sun as a result of this.

HOW TO USE

• Every morning, take one teaspoon of powder with warm water, on an empty stomach before meals.
• To combat oestrogen deficiency, it is used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms as a food supplement.
• Alfalfa sprouts can be used in salads and sandwiches. 
• The leaves and flowers can be combined to make an herbal tea that can be consumed up to three times per day.