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Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Common Names: Red Clover, Meadow Clover, Wild Clover
  • Parts Used: Flowers, Leaves

Description

Trifolium pratense, commonly known as red clover, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Traditionally used in Western, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medicine, red clover is valued for its hormonal-balancing properties, blood-purifying effects, and ability to support respiratory and skin health.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Western herbal medicine as a blood purifier and lymphatic cleanser.
  • Traditionally employed for menopausal symptoms and menstrual regulation.
  • Applied externally for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
  • Used in respiratory remedies for coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.

Constituents

  • Isoflavones (genistein, daidzein, biochanin A)
  • Coumarins
  • Flavonoids
  • Saponins
  • Tannins
  • Vitamins and minerals (calcium, magnesium, vitamin C)

Actions

  • Alterative (Blood cleanser)
  • Phytoestrogenic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Expectorant
  • Lymphatic stimulant
  • Mild diuretic

Medicinal Uses

1. Hormonal Support:
Rich in isoflavones, red clover is commonly used to ease menopausal symptoms, regulate menstrual cycles, and support hormonal balance.

2. Skin Health:
Used both internally and externally for eczema, psoriasis, and other chronic skin conditions.

3. Respiratory Health:
Acts as an expectorant to clear congestion and ease coughs in cases of bronchitis and asthma.

4. Lymphatic and Detox Support:
Helps stimulate the lymphatic system, promoting detoxification and immune function.

5. Cardiovascular Benefits:
May support heart health by improving circulation and reducing cholesterol levels.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Flowers):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried flowers per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to three times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Crushed fresh flowers applied to wounds, rashes, or skin irritation.

Capsules/Powder:

  • 500-1,000 mg daily as a supplement.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution and consult a healthcare provider.
  • Blood-Thinning Medications: Contains coumarins, which may enhance the effects of anticoagulants.
  • Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Due to phytoestrogenic effects, consult a healthcare provider if dealing with estrogen-sensitive conditions.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports detoxification, hormonal balance, and skin health.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Clears heat, resolves toxins, and nourishes the blood.
  • Ayurveda: Balancing for Pitta and Kapha, but may increase Vata in excess.

Combinations

  • For Hormonal Support: Combine with black cohosh and vitex.
  • For Skin Health: Combine with burdock and calendula.
  • For Detoxification: Combine with dandelion and cleavers.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Flowers are collected when fully open and dried for medicinal use.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried flowers in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Trifolium pratense’s phytoestrogenic, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Red Clover remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for hormonal balance, skin health, and detoxification.