Red Clover

 

Parts used - the flowers

 

Common Uses

  • Acts as a blood purifier helping to eliminate toxins from the liver and bowels.
  • Taken as a general tonic to help improve overall health.
  • Herbalists often recommend Red Clover to relieve the symptoms of menopause.
  • Acts as a mild expectorant and antispasmodic helping to ease coughs and congestion.
  • May help relieve some skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis and some rashes. Can also be applied externally to help ease these problems.
  • Acts as a mild anti-inflammatory.

How Red Clover Works

Not enough research has been carried out on Red Clover to allow us to fully understand it's medicinal potential. We do know however, that it contains isoflavones and coumestrol, both of which act in a similar way to the female hormone estrogen. This would explain it's popularity for easing the symptoms of menopause.
Red Clover also contains compounds that have mild expectorant and antispasmodic properties.
 

Side Effects
The FDA categorizes Red Clover as "Generally Recognized As Safe". No major side effects are known at this time.

 

Safety Issues
Red Clover should not be taken during pregnancy.
Avoid this herb if you are taking birth control pills or are on hormone replacement therapy.
Also avoid this herb if you are at risk of blood clots or are taking blood thinning medicine or if you have heart disease or an estrogen dependent cancer..
 

History of Red Clover

The history of the Red Clover is rich in symbolism. It's familiar three-lobed leaf is used for the Clubs suit in playing cards and was also associated by Medieval Christians with the Trinity.
Clover has been used for medicinal purposes since the time of the Ancient Romans when it was taken in wine to treat urinary stones. Through the ages it has been used for a variety of ailments including skin disorders, coughs and congestion, and cancer.


Disclaimer: The information presented is for information purposes only. It is based on scientific studies or traditional usage. Consult a health care professional before using supplements or making any changes in prescribed medications. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease