Trifolium pratense
Common name: Red clover
Family: Fabaceae
Part used: Flowering tops
Habitat: Found in grassland, planted as fodder and as a soil enriching legume , red clover is common across the world except arid and tropical regions.
Constituents: Isoflavones in the flowering tops: biochanin A, formononetin, daidzein, genistein, flavonols, coumestrol, phenolic acids (salicylic acid, p-coumaric acid), volatile oils.
We use the leaves and flowers to make our red clover tincture. The leaves contain a higher concentration of isoflavones whilst the flowers contain a higher concentration of procyanidins. Including both gives us a more balanced and versatile end product.
Actions: Strong antioxidant, antiviral, alterative, expectorant, eliminative, oestrogenic
Traditional and current uses:
• Hot flushes
• Common menopausal symptoms: low libido, low mood, poor sleep and tiredness
• May be protective against osteoporosis associated with the menopause (research ongoing)
• Metabolic disorders: red clover decreases blood lipids and and increases HDL levels
• May help reduce blood pressure in postmenopausal type 2 diabetic women
• Prostate enlargement and as an adjunt alongside therapy for prostate cancer
• Skin complaints such as burns, ulcers, eczema, psoriasis
• Dry irritated coughs
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.
