Alfalfa - a Multivitamin Alternative

There are so many supplements and vitamins on the market. One promises better joints. Another helps you lose weight. And still another claims to boost your immune system. And that doesn't even take into account your mineral and vitamin supplements. I've learned that herbs such as alfalfa can greatly enhance your vitamin and mineral content.

I can't take a lot of pills at once, which is why I try to find alternatives. Taking all those supplements gives me aches, indigestion, and nausea. Instead of taking a lot of pills, I've learned that certain herbs, such as alfalfa, have decent amounts of vitamins and minerals and make a nice addition to a healthy diet.

In the form of sprouts or a tea, alfalfa is a great addition to an already healthy diet. This is an herb that I use when I want to boost my overall intake of nutrients. My favorite way to prepare it is to put a handful of herbs (about 4 Tbs.) into a quart jar and fill it with boiling water. I let it steep for about four hours, and then refrigerate it. Doing this helps release more of the vitamins and minerals. You can also eat alfalfa sprouts with nearly the same benefits.

Vitamins and Minerals in Alfalfa

Alfalfa is high in multiple vitamins and minerals. Keep in mind that alfalfa is a food and an herb. I am not making the claim that the following vitamins and minerals are present in the same quantities as a daily vitamin supplement. But drinking a cup or two a day can help boost your supply of them.

Here are the vitamins and minerals that are present in alfalfa:

o Vitamin A
o Thiamine (B1)
o Riboflavin (B2)
o Niacin (B3)
o Pantothenic Acid (B5)
o Pyridoxine (B6)
o Folic Acid (B9)
o Cobalamin (B12)
o Vitamin C
o Vitamin D
o Vitamin E
o Biotin
o Vitamin K
o Choline
o Inositol
o PABA
o Calcium
o Flourine
o Iron
o Magnesium
o Phosphorus
o Potassium
o Sodium
o Sulfur

You may want to do your own research concerning what these individual vitamins and minerals actually do.

Disclaimer

Before taking any herbal supplements, it is best to check with a physician. Even though alfalfa is gentle and what I consider a "food grade" herb, it is still a good idea to do your own research and ask your health care provider. Definitely stay away from this plant if you suspect you are allergic to it.