What Is Alfalfa Tonic?

Alfalfa tonic is a liquid preparation derived from alfalfa. Some people believe that drinking alfalfa tonic may help with arthritis, kidney stones, and gastrointestinal problems. In addition, alfalfa tonic may be better tolerated than consuming alfalfa sprouts or alfalfa supplements. The benefits of consuming alfalfa products is merely speculative and should not take the place of getting proper medical treatment.

The alfalfa plant is rich in nutrients. It contains protein, amino acids, potassium, and magnesium. In addition, alfalfa contains calcium, zinc, and iron. Vitamins and beta-carotene are also present in alfalfa, as is chlorophyll, the substance that give plants their green color. Calcium is important for bone health, while potassium and magnesium are important minerals for cardiovascular health. Packed full of nutrients, consuming alfalfa tonic can contribute to an individuals long-term health goals.

Drinking alfalfa tonic may promote the production of red blood cells. In addition, alfalfa tonic is a good source of iron, which is necessary in the production of hemoglobin, the protein that transports oxygen in the red blood cells. A decreased level of hemoglobin is known as anemia and can cause dizziness, fatigue, paleness, and decreased body temperature. Although alfalfa tonic may help anemia, people should discuss the condition with their doctors before drinking the tonic.

Lowering unhealthy levels of cholesterol is also another possible benefit of alfalfa tonic because it contains sterols and isoflavones. Although alfalfa tonic is generally considered safe and nontoxic, a health care professional should be consulted before beginning treatment with alfalfa supplements or tonics. Other methods that can help lower cholesterol include dietary changes, exercise, quitting smoking, and medications.

Gout is a medical condition that causes pain and inflammatory of the foot and hand joints. Commonly, gout affects the big toe, though it can develop in just about any joint in the body. In addition, gout is caused by excessive amounts of uric acid in the urine and blood, which causes painful crystals to envelope joints. Typical treatments involve prescription medications that lower uric acid levels, however, alfalfa may help to dissolve the crystals and relieve pain.

Eating alfalfa sprouts can also provide the same nutritional benefits as the tonic. It is important to note, however, that they must be washed thoroughly to reduce the risk of food-borne illness such as salmonella. Consuming alfalfa may increase the body's alkalinity, so those with heartburn and acid reflux disease may notice an improvement in their symptoms. It has been shown that an increase in alkalinity reduces symptoms of digestive problems.

Symptoms of menopause also may be relieved by taking alfalfa capsules and tonics. This may occur because alfalfa may contain plant estrogen, which mimics the effects of natural estrogen in the body. Replacing estrogen stores may help alleviate hot flashes, vaginal dryness, insomnia, and mood swings. When menopausal symptoms become bothersome, a health care provider should be consulted before treatment begins with alternative remedies such as alfalfa.