Evidence supporting the use of: Alfalfa
For the health condition: Labor and Delivery

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, including as a tonic during pregnancy and to support labor and delivery. Some midwives and herbalists recommend alfalfa supplements or teas in the third trimester, claiming it can help "prepare" the body for childbirth by providing vitamins, minerals (especially vitamin K), and possibly improving uterine tone. The rationale is often based on alfalfa's rich nutrient content, particularly vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and theoretically might reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage. However, these recommendations are largely anecdotal or traditional rather than being grounded in rigorous scientific studies. There is a lack of clinical trials or robust scientific evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of alfalfa for inducing labor, strengthening contractions, or preventing bleeding. Most mainstream medical guidelines do not mention alfalfa in the context of labor and delivery. Furthermore, because alfalfa contains phytoestrogens, there may be unknown risks in pregnancy. In summary, while alfalfa has a traditional role in herbal preparations for pregnancy and labor, scientific validation for these uses is minimal, and its use is based more on historical and anecdotal evidence than on modern clinical research.

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