Alfalfa / Lucerne

Gallery

Common Name:

Alfalfa / Lucerne

Botanical Name:

Medicago sativa

Family Name:

Fabaceae

Exposure:

Full Sun

Common uses:

This is a plant that I am absolutely passionate about! Many people know it as a fodder crop for livestock but it is so much more. The name Alfalfa actually means “Farther of all foods”. The plant is exceptionally rich in nutrients like Vitamins A, D, E, K and the entire spectrum of B vitamins, including B12 which is very rare in plants. Its root system spreads very far with a depth of up to 10m which enables the plant to soak up nutrients from deep, this is why is has such an amazing amount of minerals including potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron and silica. On top of all these nutrients, Alfalfa contains a host of amino acids and in total has more protein that meat. Tea made from the leaves is a very good tonic and successful treatment for convalescence. The plant has estrogenic properties so can be useful for menstrual and menopausal complaints. A recent study has found that it is particularly helpful in boosting immune function and a daily supplement of Alfalfa has increased white blood cell production by almost 60%. Taking Alfalfa & Peppermint tea during studying and exams helps boost alertness, concentration and memory whilst acting as an energy tonic. It boost healthy skin and hair growth. It is not recommended to be taken by people with auto immune disorders or organ transplants due to its immune stimulating effects.

Growing:

Alfalfa is an easy to grow perennial that cannot be grown in pots for long periods. It should be planted in full sun with a deep weekly watering. Add a thick layer of mulch around the plants to ensure a constant supply of nutrients. When harvesting the fresh leaves ensure that you do not cut the stems to close to the ground as this will impact the plant negatively. Only fresh leaves should be used internally.