Red clover is known by several names, including the scientific name Trifolium pratense, as well as purple clover and wild clover. The herb is a perennial plant that is grazed on by livestock, but also has some medicinal benefits. The herb is commonly used as an alternative or natural treatment for skin disease such as psoriasis and eczema. Red clover, as with other herbs and conventional medications, is not appropriate for everyone. It's important to be aware of the contraindications associated with red clover in order to prevent possible injury or dangerous medical conditions from occurring.
Hormone-Sensitive Cancers
Red clover contains isoflavones, which can act like estrogen in the body, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. For this reason, red clover is sometimes prescribed to alleviate hot flashes and other symptoms associated with menopause. This same estrogenic activity makes red clover dangerous, or contraindicated, for use in women who have hormone-sensitive cancers. Cancers of the breast, ovaries and uterus can be affected negatively when a person affected by these illnesses takes red clover. Women who take birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy should consult their physician before taking red clover.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women and nursing mothers are another group that should not use red clover. Drugs.com explains that adverse effects involving estrogenic activity have been reported with red clover. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding could inadvertently harm their babies by altering the normal hormone levels associated with these conditions if they take red cover.
Bleeding Problems
People who have bleeding problems or who take blood-thinning medications are not ideal candidates for red clover therapy. According to the American Cancer Society, people in this group have a higher-than-normal risk of experiencing serious bleeding because of the increased effects that red clover can have on anticoagulant medications.
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