Alfalfa water is a liquid extract or infusion derived from the alfalfa plant (Medicago sativa), also known as lucerne. This perennial flowering plant belongs to the legume family and is widely cultivated globally. Historically, alfalfa has been valued for centuries, with its use documented in ancient Persian ruins dating back six thousand years and in early Turkish writings around 1300 B.C.. Traditional Chinese Medicine utilized alfalfa leaf to stimulate appetite and relieve ulcers, while Indian Ayurvedic medicine employed it for water retention and arthritis.
Preparing Alfalfa Water
Creating alfalfa water at home involves simple steps. You will need alfalfa in the form of hay, pellets, or fresh sprouts, combined with water. For a basic infusion, soak fresh alfalfa sprouts in water for several hours or overnight. After soaking, strain the liquid from the solid plant material.
Different preparation methods can influence the concentration and consistency of the final product. Soaking hay or pellets in water, typically at a ratio of one cup of alfalfa per gallon of water, allows for nutrient extraction. This mixture can sit for a day or up to three or four days, sometimes initiating a slight fermentation. Another method involves blending alfalfa with water, such as a handful of alfalfa with two liters of water, then straining the mixture.
Applications and Advantages
Alfalfa water benefits both human health and plant growth through its nutrient content.
For Human Health
Alfalfa water contains various nutritional compounds, including vitamins like K, C, and some B vitamins, as well as minerals such as phosphorus and zinc. Alfalfa water is recognized for its potential to support digestion due to its digestive enzymes, which may help break down food and reduce bloating. It is also believed to enhance nutrient absorption, making vitamins and minerals more accessible to the body. Traditional uses of alfalfa include supporting metabolic health by potentially lowering blood fat and blood sugar levels, and it has been explored for relieving menopausal symptoms.
For Plant Growth
Alfalfa water serves as a natural fertilizer or soil amendment, providing beneficial nutrients for garden plants, lawns, or crops. Alfalfa is known for its ability to fix nitrogen from the air, making this nutrient available for plant roots, which can reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers and promote vigorous growth. This process occurs through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria in its root nodules, although alfalfa still requires some external nitrogen supply. Alfalfa also contributes other minerals like potassium, calcium, magnesium, and zinc to the soil, supporting overall plant health. Alfalfa water can be applied as a foliar spray or a soil drench, directly delivering nutrients to the plants and soil microorganisms.
Important Considerations
When using alfalfa water, especially for human consumption, several precautions are important. Individuals who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a weakened immune system should consult a healthcare professional before consuming alfalfa water due to potential risks. Alfalfa sprouts can sometimes be contaminated with bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, so it is important to choose high-quality sprouts and wash them thoroughly. Alfalfa contains significant amounts of vitamin K, which can interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, potentially decreasing their effectiveness.
For plant applications, proper dilution ratios are important to prevent over-fertilization or plant damage. While alfalfa provides balanced nutrition to plants, excessive application can lead to an accumulation of salts in the soil, which may stress plants. Alfalfa water should be stored in a cool place, such as a refrigerator, to prevent spoilage.