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to search the herb database for and click search:
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Alfalfa (Chilean clover, buffalo grass, father of all foods, buffalo herb, Lucerne, medicago, purple medic) |
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Active
constituents include: |
Protein, beta carotene, chlorophyll and octacosanol. Also contains, vitamins, amino acids, sugars, saponins, sterols, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids and acids. |
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Proposed
use: |
Vitamin supplement (A,C,E, & K)
Arthritis, bursitis, gout, ulcers, allergies, nutritional deficiencies, diuretic, antipyretic and anticholesterol agent. |
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Contraindications: |
CI:Avoid if history of SLE.
W: Excess amounts may interfere with anticoagulant and oestrogen therapies (COC, HRT). Hypo-glycaemic medication. |
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Renal
specific warnings: |
Contains high levels of potassium |
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Adverse
effects: |
The active agent canavanine, which are found in the alfalfa seeds has been reported to be associated with reactivation of SLE. Pancytopenia, hypoglycaemia (in treated diabetics). |
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Pharmacological
properties: |
Saponins reported to reduce plasma cholesterol levels. Toxic effects reported against various fungal species. |
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Quality
of available information: |
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Legal
Category if available: |
GSL |
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Further
information: |
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Date
of Monograph: |
06 June 2001 |
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another search, just enter the word in the search box as before
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The information
provided is based on the current literature and evidence avialable.
For some herbs, there is little information available and
the evidence of side effects is anecdotal. However, we are
endeavouring to update and improve the quality of information
all the time. We advice you to discuss taking any herbal medicines
with a person who specialises in this field.
Nephronline
or the authors cannot take any responsibility for any adverse
effects from the use of these herbs.
References:
- Newall,
C., Anderson, L. & Phillipson. J.D. (1996). Herbal Medicines:
A guide for health-care professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical
Press.
- Mills,
S. & Bone, K. (2000). Principles and practice of Phytotherapy.
Modern herbal medicine. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.
Web
sites to check out:
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