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Potential Alfalfa Side Effects, Adverse Reactions And Contraindications

Adverse hormone related conditions

WebMD also notes that alfalfa may affect the body in ways similar to the female hormone, estrogen. Thus, consumption of alfalfa if you are suffering from hormone related conditions may not be advisable. This is because alfalfa may worsen these conditions. Hormone related conditions include:

* Breast cancer
* Uterine cancer
* Ovarian cancer
* Endometriosis
* Uterine fibroids

Decrease the effectiveness of birth control

A Livestrong article from 2010 also notes that because of the way alfalfa may act like estrogen in the body, one possible alfalfa side effect is the reduction of effectiveness of birth control pills. If you are trying to prevent pregnancy and you consume alfalfa, it is advisable that you also use an alternative birth control method during this time or refrain from sexual activities altogether.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

The Livestrong article also reports that alfalfa can increase stimulation in the uterus and thus it may increase the risk of miscarriage. This is not backed by clinical research but the hormonal activities of alfalfa are thought to be able to create this side effect.

There is also not enough known about what the alfalfa side effects might be on the fetus because of the herb’s estrogen-like qualities. Thus, in order to stay on the safe side, it is advisable that you do not use alfalfa during pregnancy. Because of these reasons, it is also advisable that you avoid consuming the herb during breastfeeding.

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