Alfalfa Leaf Herbal Tincture - 2 ounce amber glass bottle Also Know As - Medicago sativa, lucerne, holy-hay, buffalo herb and trefoil. Origin - USA Overview - First discovered by the Arabs, who dubbed alfalfa, this valuable plant, as the "father of all foods." According to an early Oriental herbarium, alfalfa tops the list of 896 plants cited, and originated in Persia. Alfalfa (M. sativa), a native of Asia, didn't reach North America until around 1850 or 1860. Native Americans adapted alfalfa quickly for human use, as well as for animals. In England and South Africa it is called Buffalo herb Medicinal Uses - Alfalfa leaf is sometimes used to support healthy lactation in women, due to its high nutritional profile. It is also a valuable plant to use for helping to optimize female hormonal balance. It contains weak acting phytoestrogens (plant estrogens), which are useful in either hypo or hyper-estrogenic states. By competing for receptor site bonding with the stronger estrogens, the weaker ones keep the negative effects of excess estrogen in check, but if there is deficient estrogen, provide it in a mild form as well as dense nutrients. There is also some compelling research that indicates Alfalfa leaf helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Additionally the rich mineral content could promote the healthy growth of hair, skin and nail tissue, while also providing a source of antioxidants. Animal studies indicate that saponins in alfalfa seeds may block absorption of cholesterol and prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. It seems that fibers and chemicals in alfalfa appear to stick to cholesterol, keeping it from staying in the blood or depositing in blood vessels. More of the harmful types of cholesterol leave the body, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) - the "good" kind of cholesterol -- appears to be unaffected. One small human trial found that 120 grams per day of heat-treated alfalfa seeds for eight weeks led to a modest reduction in cholesterol. Active Constituents - Flavones, isoflavones, sterols, and coumarin derivatives, protein and vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K, calcium, potassium, iron, and zinc. Disclaimer - The information presented herein by Mountain Maus’ Remedies is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.