|
|
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)
This lush green legume, which can reach 3 feet in height with pretty lavender/blue flowers is often grown as a cover crop and a hay crop for livestock. It's deep taproots draw minerals from the earth and Alfalfa makes an excellent under-story planting beneath trees and shrubs. Alfalfa has been used medicinally for centuries. Native to Medea which predates Spain, alfalfa was also cultivated in Persia and Europe and eventually brought to the Americas. The plant is loaded with nutrients and has been used traditionally for reviving weak and debilitated patients after long illness. Alfalfa is also known as a diuretic, promotes peristalsis, stimulates milk production and eases morning sickness. It has also been used as a remedy for gout, ulcers, and blood sugar regulation. Chinese medicine has used Alfalfa to treat kidney stones. Many herbalists recommend it as a mineral rich blood cleanser to be taken as a daily tonic. It has an alkalinizing effect on the bloodstream and has shown some potential as an ally for cancer in recent studies. Historically, Alfalfa was revered as an herb that brings abundance to the home and garden where it is grown. Prefers full sun and well drained, alkaline soil. Alfalfa makes a great border planting and several cuttings can be taken over the summer to dry for tea. Quite drought tolerant once established. Hardy pernnial to zone 3.
|
|
|
