Alfalfa Leaf Powder
Alfalfa (or lucerne as the plant is called in Europe) is the world’s oldest forage crop. The deep-rooted legume resembles tall clover with pea-like flowers and leaves divided into three leaflets. Although most commonly cultivated as animal fodder, alfalfa leaves are rich in essential vitamins and minerals and have been eaten, raw or cooked, in many cultures. Nutrient-dense alfalfa leaf powder contains fiber and protein as well as vitamins A, C, E, and K and minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, and phosphorous. The powder has little taste and may be added to foods or encapsulated. As a dietary supplement, alfalfa leaf powder is suitable for humans, livestock, and pets. Alfalfa has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, primarily to treat disorders of the digestive tract and poor digestion. Since alfalfa leaf contains phytoestrogens, contemporary herbalists often suggest the herb for estrogen balancing and to treat menopause symptoms. Some studie