Red clover, also known as cow clover, wild clover or meadow clover, is a legume that grows wild in the fields of Europe, Asia and North America, where it's often found in grazing fields for cattle. Historically, red clover has been used in efforts to treat a variety of health problems, including cancer and respiratory problems
Identification
Red clover is available in several different forms, including capsules, tablets, teas and extract. The extract, which is taken from the flowers, can come in two forms: regular liquid extract, with components that can vary depending on the specifics of the flowers from which it is taken, and standardized extract, which is formulated to contain specific isoflavone content, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Function
Red clover extract gets its potency from isoflavones, chemicals found in many plants that produce effects similar to the hormone estrogen. According to the University of Michigan Health System, it works as alterative agent, creating gradual improvements over time rather than making immediate dramatic changes. Red clover also contains several nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium and vitamin C.
Benefits
There is some evidence to suggest that red clover extract might be useful for treating certain health problems, but more research is needed before these benefits can be considered conclusive. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, early research suggests that red clover extract might be beneficial for improving cardiovascular health, reducing menopausal symptoms, slowing bone loss and possibly slowing or preventing some forms of cancer.
Warning
The estrogen-like workings of red clover extract might increase the risk of developing uterine cancer for women, but no long-term studies have been done, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or who have hormone-sensitive cancers such as breast cancer should avoid using red clover extract.
Expert Insight
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking 1 ml of regular red clover extract three times a day on its own or made into a tea with hot water. If you're taking a standardized extract of red clover isoflavones, it's important to follow the dosage recommendations on the package.
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