How to Improve Digestion With Alfalfa
Alfalfa, also called lucerne, is a legume which is part of the pea family. Native to Asia and the Mediterranean, alfalfa is useful as a food and medicine. While today we most commonly enjoy alfalfa in sprouted form, the leaves and flowers also contain many healthy benefits, including the ability to improve digestion.
Things You'll Need
- Fresh alfalfa leaves and flowers
- Dried alfalfa leaves
- Alfalfa capsules
- Alfalfa tincture
Instructions
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Enjoy fresh alfalfa leaves and flowers whenever possible, as they offer the greatest concentration of vitamins, minerals and healing properties. Juice the leaves and flowers with a hand crank or low RPM juicer, such as those used to juice wheatgrass. Drink 1 oz. of juice before meals, mixing with honey or fruit juices if desired.
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Make alfalfa tea from dried leaves and flowers and drink before meals. To make tea, pour boiling water over 1 to 2 tsp. of dried alfalfa and steep for 10 minutes. Sweeten with honey and lemon if you like.
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Purchase alfalfa capsules as a daily supplement to help improve digestion. Alfalfa capsules are readily available and are a great alternative for those who find the bitter taste of alfalfa unpalatable. Always follow the manufacturer's or your doctor's recommendation for dosage information.
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Use alfalfa tincture, another alternative for those who do not enjoy the taste of alfalfa. Tinctures can be added to tea, juice or water and offer a highly concentrated dose of this healing plant. Again, always follow the label for recommended doses.
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Tips & Warnings
Alfalfa sprouts, while a delicious addition to salads, do not contain the nutritional and medicinal properties of the plant itself. It is not recommended that those with digestive problems eat alfalfa sprouts.
