Red Clover
(Trifolium pratense)

Description

In ancient times, red clover was commonly used as a grazing food for animals. However, like many other herbs, it was also valued for its medicinal properties. Red clover has been used all over the world for a variety of purposes.

Herbal Uses

In the nineteenth century, red clover was famous for its use as a "blood purifier," or "alterative". It was believed that many illnesses were caused by the build-up of toxins in the blood.

Suggested Intakes

Part of the plant used: FLOWER.

2 to 4 g of dried flowers 3 times per day. Administer until symptoms improve maximally.

Supplemental Uses

Menopausal symptoms:
A recently marketed Australian product containing red clover has been indicated for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Unpublished studies thus far revealed promising results.

Antitumour:
While it is been a popular traditional remedy for cancer world-wide, there is little scientific evidence to support its use. Preliminary research does show, however, that red clover contains isoflavones that possess antitumour activity (1,2).

Skin disorders:
Red clover has been recommended for the treatment of Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema, and other skin disorders.

Safety and Precautions

Red clover is found in many beverage teas, and is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. However, detailed studies have not yet been conducted. Concentrated extracts may be harmful.

Pregnant or nursing women and women with a history of uterine or breast cancer should not use red clover.

Safety in young children and in patients with severe liver or kidney disease has not been determined.

Interactions and Contra-Indications

Individuals on hormones (such as oral contraceptives) or anticoagulants (such as Coumadin or heparin) should not use red clover without medical supervision.

References

1. Newall C, et al. Herbal medicines: A guide for health-care professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996: 227.
2. Yanagihara K, et al. Antiproliferative effects of isoflavones on human cancer cell lines established from the gastrointestinal tract. Cancer Res 53: 5815-5821, 1993.