How to Take Alfalfa Supplements and Herbal Remedies

Alfalfa has a centuries-long history of use for medicinal and culinary purposes, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), noting that clinical studies have shown that alfalfa supplements and herbal remedies may be beneficial in the treatment of atherosclerosis, diabetes and high cholesterol.



Alfalfa leaf, rather than alfalfa sprouts, are used to prepare herbal remedies, writes Michael Castleman in his book "The New Healing Herbs." Alfalfa leaf can be taken in the form of alfalfa supplements, or in home herbal remedies. Castleman cautions, however, that while alfalfa leaf is listed by the FDA as an herb generally regarded as safe, you should only take it in medicinal amounts in consultation with a health care provider.

Things You'll Need

• 1 to 2 tsp. alfalfa leaf
• Alfalfa supplements such as Cholestaid
• Alfalfa tincture
• Alfalfa seed

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Instructions

• 1

  Prepare a medicinal infusion from alfalfa leaf, recommends Michael Castleman. Add 1 to 2 tsp. of dried alfalfa to a cup of boiling water. Steep the herb for 10 to 20 minutes and then strain. Drink up to three cups a day. Castleman notes that alfalfa herbal tea has a hay-like aroma and a taste similar to chamomile tea.

• 2

  Follow the manufacturer's instructions when taking alfalfa in tablet form, advises Healthline. The manufacturer-recommended dosage for Cholestaid, for example, is two tablets taken three times a day for up to two months, and then one tablet three times a day thereafter.

• 3

  Use an alfalfa tincture in doses of 5 to 10ml (about 1 to 2 tsp.) of a 1:1 solution in 25 percent alcohol three times a day, taken by mouth.

• 4

  Ingest 40 grams of heated alfalfa seed three times a day with your food to help reduce cholesterol levels, suggests the NIH.