Alfalfa

Alfalfa has played an important role as a livestock forage. Its use probably originated in southeast asia. The arabs fed alfalfa to their horses, claiming it made the animals swift and strong, and named the legume “al-fal-fa” meaning “father of all foods.” the medicinal uses of alfalfa stem from anecdotal reports that the leaves cause diuresis and are useful in the treatment of kidney, bladder, and prostate disorders. Leaf preparations have been touted for their anti-arthritic and antidiabetic activity, for treatment of dyspepsia, and as an anti-asthmatic. Alfalfa extracts are used in baked goods, beverages, and prepared foods, and the plant serves as a commercial source of chlorophyll and carotene.