The first documented use by the Chinese dates back to the 6th century.
Chinese healers use alfalfa to treat kidney stones and to relieve fluid retention and swelling.
English herbalist John Gerard recommended alfalfa for upset stomachs. Noted biologist and author Frank Bouer discovered that the leaves of this remarkable legume contained eight essential amino acids. Alfalfa is a good laxative and a natural diuretic. It is often used to treat urinary tract infections . This versatile herb is also a folk remedy for arthritis , and is reputed to be an excellent appetite stimulant and overall tonic.