herbs - Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

What is it?

Red Clover is a perennial herb with dark pink flowers and is native to Europe and Asia, but has become naturalised in Australia, New Zealand and North America. The flowers are used in herbal medicine.

Action

Red Clover contains high levels of Antioxidant isoflavones, particularly genistein, which has weak oestrogenic properties which have actions of female hormone health. In addition, Red Clover is said to be alterative (promotes health) and is anti-inflammatory in skin disorders, a heart protector and an anti-cancer agent. 

Uses

Our experts recommend red clover for the following disorders:

Other information

Red Clover is an excellent vitality booster during difficult phases of the Menopause, helping to control mood swings, hot flushes, depression and irritability. It also helps reduce the increased risk of heart disease in post-menopausal women. Herbalists use Red Clover for Eczema, Psoriasis, to treat coughs and as a detox and general tonic. It is available as tea, tablets, capsules or tincture.

Cautions

• Red Clover in the usual unfermented form is safe and free of side effects, however it is advisable to consult your doctor if you are taking the platelet inhibitor, ticlopidine, the blood thinning medications heparin and warfarin or if you are on oestrogen therapy (HRT).



• Red Clover should be avoided during pregnancy and breast-feeding, and is not suitable for children under 12.  



• When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Red Clover.

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