Red Clover Herb

Common Name

Standardized: red clover

Botanical Name

Trifolium pratense L.
Plant Family: Fabaceae

Overview

Introduction

Red clover is a low growing perennial, native to northwest Africa, Asia, and Europe. It has since been naturalized and cultivated in many parts of the world, including North America. The flower heads are collected in full bloom, during the summer months.

Druids believed that it could ward off evil spells and witches, while Medieval Christians believed that the three lobbed leaves were associated with the trinity and the four lobbed leaves as a symbol of the cross.

Constituents

Isoflavones

Parts Used

Leaf and flower

Typical Preparations

Tea, in capsules and extracts. May also be eaten raw and seldom in salads.

Summary

Red clover is often cultivated as a fodder crop, and may also be tilled for green manure. It makes a wonderful ingredient in herbal tea, adding a light, sweet flavor along with its abundant medicinal properties. It may be integrated into a salve or balm and is traditionally used to support healthy skin. In some clinical trials, red clover has shown to support a healthy menopause by reducing symptoms. However, these results are disputed by similar clinical trials. As such, more research is necessary in order to completely understand the efficacy of the herb. Some studies have also shown that red clover may help to support cardiovascular health in women to a modest degree.

References

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=16373244&dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=12161042&dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=19031218&dopt=Abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=Retrieve&listuids=15226466&dopt=Abstract

Medical Herbalism by David Hoffmann pg. 590

Precautions

Specific: No known precautions.
General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.