Black Medick - Medicago lupulina

Medicago lupulina, commonly known as black medick, nonesuch, or hop clover grows worldwide in dry, disturbed soil. It’s closely related to alfalfa. It offers minerals particularly calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium. It is very high in protein.

Its traditional use is as a mild laxative. It is a nervine and the Lakota people used it for nervousness. Its secondary metabolites are saponins, and phenolics. There is research suggesting natural phenolics are helpful in preventing or reversing diabetic complications by prevention of oxidative stress. Its triterpene saponins are reported to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antileishmanial, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-Alzheimer, and immunomodulatory effects. There are studies which have shown Medicago lupulina to be effective against Aspergillus flavus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Candida glaberata, Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus, Candida albicans, Microsporum canis, and Vortexing Aspergillus flavus.

When doing your own research don’t confuse it with Medicago sativa, which is alfalfa. There are far more studies on alfalfa and ones on Medicago lupulina tend to get buried among them. 

Caution should be used if one is taking blood thinners. Additionally, heavy metals can accumulate in the roots of the plant, leading it to be considered for phytoremediation of contaminated soil. I do not use the roots in my tinctures.

Tincture dosing: 8-12 ml per day. Start slowly as allergies and sensitivities are always possible.

Possible side effects: allergy, medication interactions.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and this product is not intended to treat or cure any diseases.