Dried red clover herb (Trifolium pratense)
Dried red clover herb (Trifolium pratense)
Please avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Concerns about red clover and anticoagulant medication are only relevant with poorly dried plant material where coumarins are converted to dicoumerol, which is itself a potent anti-coagulant and should be avoided in general but specifically by anyone taking anti-coagulant medication. Commercially produced products based on well-dried plant material such as this do not contain dicoumerol.
The isoflavones in red clover bind weakly to beta oestrogen receptors rather than alpha receptors and are therefore generally thought to be safe for individuals with oestrogen dependent cancer. Isoflavones in red clover may even exhibit protective qualities against these cancers much the same as soy, based on chemistry and traditional use.
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.
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