Alfalfa (Lucerne) cut aerial part – Medicago sativa

Particularly appreciated in seasonal cures or for general support, cut alfalfa is a versatile green plant. It is used as the basis for remineralizing decoctions, in invigorating infusions, or as a plant ingredient in wellness blends for traditional use.

Description

Alfalfa is a perennial plant in the Fabaceae family. It produces slender stems and bright green trifoliate leaves. Carefully cut and dried, its texture remains supple and aromatic. Slightly bitter, it develops a herbaceous odor when brewed. It has been cultivated for centuries in temperate regions of the world.

Nomenclature

• Common names: Lucerne, alfalfa
• Latin name: Medicago sativa
• Family: Fabaceae (Legumes)
• Part used: Aerial parts (leaves and stems)
• Form: Cut, dried
• Origin: Europe, West Asia, North America
• Name in English: Alfalfa aerial parts
• German name: Lucernekraut
• Name in Spanish: Alfalfa Airs
• Name in Italian: Parti aeree di erba medica
• Name in Arabic: أجزاء نبات الفصة (Ajza' Nabat al-Fassa)

Main virtues

A revitalizing plant rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals, it is often used in nutritional infusions. It is also incorporated into blends for general well-being or seasonal transition infusions.

Main constituents

Chlorophyll, plant proteins, vitamins A, C, E, K, calcium, iron, magnesium, flavonoids, saponins.

Use and dosage

• Infusion: 1 tablespoon for 250 ml of boiling water, infuse for 8 to 10 minutes.
• Mild decoction: 2 tablespoons for 500 ml, simmer for 5 minutes then let it infuse.
• Culinary use: can be incorporated into homemade vegetable soups or broths.

Precautions, side effects and contraindications

• Avoid in people suffering from lupus (presence of canavanine).
• Store away from moisture and light.
• Respect the dosages in case of prolonged use.

History and origin

Alfalfa has been known since ancient times for its fortifying properties. Used in Persian, Greek, and Arabic medicine, it was also a valuable plant in the European countryside. Its aerial part, sweeter than the seed, is used in nutritious infusions traditionally made by peasants.

Miscellaneous information

• Storage: in a kraft bag or airtight jar away from light.
• Packaging: bulk, resealable bag or opaque box.
• Appearance: Green fragments of dried leaves and stems.
• Odor: herbaceous, sweet, slightly sweet.

Sources and references

• Pl@ntUse – https://uses.plantnet-project.org
• FAO – Forage and medicinal crops
• Texts on rural ethnobotany
• European herbalism references

🔎 Information

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