Medicago sativa
Dried, Cut & Sifted
Certified USDA Organic
1 oz. Kraft Pouch
It is believed Alfalfa was introduced to Ancient Greece about 490 BCE when the Persians invaded Greece.
Around the 18th century, it arrived in North America where the seeds are used by Native Americans as a thickening agent and source of nutrients like A, K & C. 19th century physicians used it as an ingredient in tonics and the seeds were ground into a poultice to soothe insect bites. Nursing mothers also utilize it to stimulate the flow of breast milk.
Traditional Chinese Medicine recommends alfalfa leaves to stimulate appetite and relieve ulcers. Indian Ayurvedic medicine utilizes it also for ulcers as well as relieve water retention and arthritis.
An interesting relationship with bees and alfalfa requires the presence of pollinators when the fields of alfalfa are in bloom. However, pollination can be tricky as the pollen-carrying keel of the alfalfa flower trips and strikes pollinating bees on the head, which helps transfer the pollen to the visiting bee. Understandably, the bees don't care to be struck on the head repeatedly and have learned to thwart this consequence by drawing nectar from the side of the flower!
As such, bees collect the nectar, but carry no pollen, meaning they do not pollinate the next flowers they visit. Older, wiser bees end up not pollinating alfalfa and is mostly carried out by younger bees who have not yet learned to rob the flower without the head but of the flower keel!. Leaf Cutter Bees are increasingly used to overcome this issue. They are solitary but productive, and do not build colonies or store honey, so it is hailed as an efficient pollinator of alfalfa flowers.
Directions for Tea:
Pour 8 oz. boiling water over 1 tsp. of herb.
Cover, steep for 5 - 10 minutes,
Strain, serve & Enjoy!
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only. If pregnant, nursing or suffering from any medical condition, or taking any medication, always consult with your healthcare practitioner before use.