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Alfalfa
(Medicago sativa) lucerne

Description: An introduced perennial herb growing 2-3 feet tall. The stems are erect. Flowers are violet blue to mixed yellow and borne in loose clusters at the ends of the branches. The seed pods contain many small kidney-shaped seeds. Leaves are trifoliate nd toothed two thirds down from the tip. Cultivated for hay, planted for forage on foothill ranges throughout the world.

Edible, Medicinal: The fresh green leaves have 8 essential enzymes and a source of 10 different vitamins, especially high in A, C, D, B2, B7, K, iron, and calcium. Sprouted seeds are used for salads or in health drinks.It is a appetizer, diuretic and tonic. A tea of the leaves taken every day is known to relieve urinary and bowel problems, to eliminate retained water and to improve appetite. Some have found relief from arthritis by gently simmering 2 tablespoons of the seeds to
1 quart of water for 15 minutes. Strain off the liquid and place in the fridge. Take 1 cup of this liquid throughout the day.

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