Alfalfa
Alfalfa, Medicago sativa, is a legume grown mainly as animal feed. Its leaves and sprouts contain saponins, estrogen-like isoflavonoids and vitamin K.
Also listed as Organic Alfalfa Grass, Alfalfa Extract, Alfalfa Leaf Extract, Alfalfa Leaf
What happened in the human study?
In 1987, 15 people with lipid disorders consumed 40 g heat-prepared seeds three times daily for eight weeks. In the type II subgroup, median LDL fell by 18%. The study was small and lacked a parallel control group, so this remains a preliminary signal rather than reliable treatment evidence. 1
Does it increase milk supply?
LactMed reports no scientifically valid clinical trials supporting this use and no adequate safety data for nursing mothers or infants. This is an evidence gap, not a trial demonstrating no effect. 2
Effects by health goal
Open an effect to see the studies behind its rating. Bars show the size of the effect; the letter grades the evidence.
Bone & Joint1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Women's Hormones1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Weight Management3 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Longevity1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Essential Health1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Hair & Skin1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Immune Support1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Cardiovascular1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Gut Health1 effect
No study is linked to this rating.
Other effects3 effects
No study is linked to this rating.
No study is linked to this rating.
Sources
- Alfalfa Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed), 2021