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It belongs to the Leguminosae plant family growing in meadows throughout Britain, Europe, Central and Northern Asia, from the Mediterranean the Arctic. Physically it is distinguishable by its smooth elegant leaves which taper to a point, and its clusters of reddish-purple flowers. These flower heads have been widely reported to hold the ingredients that have brought the plant medicinal fame – and these ingredients include four varieties of isoflavones.

These isoflavones have been reported to have mild oestrogenic activity, accounting for the herb’s reputation for relieving menopausal symptoms. It is important to note, however, that scientific evidence supporting the successful administration of red clover for this purpose is scarce, and a variety of other plants, like soy, are considered superior sources for such isoflavones.

In addition to these claimed benefits, red clover has also been used to treat jaundice, inflammation, coughs, cardiovascular disease and even cancer. It is also believed to purify the blood.

Numerous clinical studies are underway and promise to reveal the true medicinal qualities and benefits of this herb in the near future.

Part used
Blossom heads

Active compounds
Isoflavones:

• Biochanin A
• Daidzein
• Flavonoids
• Formononnetin
• Genistein
• Pratensein
• Trifoside

Clovamides:

• L-Dopa-caffeic acid conjugates

Coumarins:

• Coumestrol
• Medicagol
• Coumarin

Volatile oil

Other:

• Galactomannan
• Resins
• Mineral acids
• Minerals and vitamins: calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine and vitamin C
• Phytoalexins

Medicinal actions

Mild stimulant

Medicinal use of red clover
Skin disorders:

• Childhood eczema
• Chronic skin conditions including psoriasis

Coughs:

• Bronchitis
• Whooping cough

Menopausal disorders:

• Hot flushes
• Other menopausal discomforts

Cancer:

• Cancerous growths
• Cancer of the stomach

Note: Isoflavones are thought to prevent the growth and proliferation of cancerous cells, and possibly even kill them off.

Heart disease

• Preventative measure against cardiovascular disorders

Note: Red Clover increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol – or good cholesterol – and increases arterial compliance.

Other:

• Toxic shock syndrome
• Arthritic complaints
• Gout

Dosage

Tea:
Infuse 1-3 teaspoons of the dried herb in a cup of boiling water and steep this for 15 minutes. Drink three times a day.

Tincture:
2-6 ml three times a day

Capsules:
2-6 capsules (500mg each) per day

Safety
There is limited information available on the safe use of red clover, but as with any herb, a physician should be consulted in cases of extended use. This herb should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Interactions
The oestrogen-like properties in red clover isoflavones make it an unsafe herb for women with a history of breast cancer and those on hormone therapy, including birth control pills.

The herb should also be avoided by anyone taking blood-thinning medication, due to an increased risk of bleeding associated with the consumption of red clover. This would include medication like warfarin or aspirin.

 

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