Alfalfa sprouts often end up as a topping on the salad. Here you can find out whether the small seedlings are really that good for your health.

Origin and active ingredients of alfalfa sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts are the germinated seeds of a popular forage crop, lucerne. Alfalfa is a legume and originally comes from Asia, where it has been cultivated for many centuries. The name alfalfa means something like “father of food”, which is very apt given the many nutrients it contains. The alfalfa sprouts contain, among other things:
lots of plant-based protein
Vitamin A, strengthens eyesight and skin
Vitamin B1 and B6, important for the nervous system and a well-functioning metabolism
In addition to the immune system, vitamin C also promotes fat metabolism
Vitamin E protects the body from free radicals
essential amino acids such as tryptophan and tyrosine 7
lots of magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, zinc and phosphate
Furthermore, alfalfa is characterized by the large amounts of antioxidants and chlorophyll. Antioxidants also help scavenge free radicals, while chlorophyll balances acid-base balance.

Saponins for a strong immune system

Perhaps one of the greatest health benefits of alfalfa sprouts is their high saponin content. Saponins are particularly useful for the intestines because they have an anti-inflammatory effect and strengthen the intestinal flora. According to some studies, saponins can also prevent some cancers and ensure a strong immune system.

These modes of action are also attributed to saponins:
Saponins ensure that harmful bacteria are combated and bacteria that are beneficial for the intestinal flora are encouraged to grow.
Saponins bind cholesterol in the intestine. As a result, they do not get into the bloodstream as quickly.

Alfalfa sprouts as a remedy for autoimmune diseases

In autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus, the body’s own defenses turn against the body. The antibodies then inflame the tissue and organs. In medical tests, these symptoms could be reduced by saponin. Therefore, alfalfa sprouts might actually be helpful for treating such diseases.

Preparation of alfalfa sprouts

It is best to always buy organic alfalfa sprouts. But you can also easily draw them yourself. After you have briefly rinsed the fresh sprouts with water, you can use them in many different ways:
Sprinkle raw sprouts on bread with cream cheese or hummus for a healthy topping.
Mix alfalfa with some quark and you have a delicious dip for vegetable sticks.
Top off a tasty salad with a few alfalfa sprouts.