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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Unpublished studies thus far revealed promising results.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.
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