|
Herbs & Supplements
Alfalfa
Other Names: Feuille de Luzerna, Lucerne, Medicago, Medicago sativa, Purple Medick
When should I be careful taking it?
In studies, laboratory monkeys that regularly ate alfalfa seeds developed a condition resembling systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Case reports of lupus-like symptoms in humans who ate alfalfa seeds have also been published. In addition, consuming alfalfa seeds apparently caused symptoms of SLE to return in two individuals who suffered from SLE but whose disease was inactive. Although no corroborative clinical studies have been conducted in humans, individuals with SLE should not take alfalfa.
In other animal studies, alfalfa caused the muscles in the uterus to tighten. Potentially, this tightening could cause a miscarriage, so alfalfa products should not be taken by women who are pregnant.
Since 1995, several instances of alfalfa sprouts or seeds that were contaminated with bacteria have been documented. Eating products contaminated with bacteria could cause diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, and vomiting. Because of this risk, consumption of alfalfa sprouts is not recommended for children, the elderly, or anyone with conditions that affect the immune system. Alfalfa seeds should also be avoided by these individuals.
Women with hormone-dependent conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and cancers of the breast, ovaries, or uterus should not take alfalfa due to its possible hormonal effects. Men with prostate cancer should also avoid taking alfalfa.
Precautions
Taking alfalfa can make unprotected skin more sensitive to sunlight or artificial light in sun tanning parlors. Individuals who use alfalfa should be sure to use sunscreen.
|
Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
|
|
When should I be careful taking it? 
