Uses for Red Clover

Red clover (Trifolium pratense), a wild perennial herb used for a variety of medicinal purposes and to feed grazing animals, grows natively in meadows and pastures throughout temperate regions of Europe, Asia and North America. The red flowers that appear at the end of the plant's branched stems, which provide its medicinal benefits, are harvested and dried prior to use. Scientific studies of the herb often offer conflicting results, though some traditional uses of red clover are still prized by modern herbalists.

Menopause

Red clover may provide relief from menopausal symptoms, though studies have produced mixed results. One study, published in the September-October edition of "Menopause," found no demonstrable benefit for menopausal symptoms. Another study published in the 2005 edition of "Gynecological Endocrinology," however, concluded that red clover supplements significantly decreased menopausal symptoms. Several other conflicting studies exist. Herbalists often recommend red clover supplements to menopausal women, though their effectiveness for treating symptoms varies among individuals.

Cardiovascular Problems

Though strong evidence is lacking, red clover may help protect against heart disease and other cardiovascular problems, particularly in menopausal women. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, red clover contains isoflavones, organic compounds that act as estrogens in mammals. These isoflavones are associated with good cholesterol and some evidence suggests they may promote stronger arteries, which prevents heart disease. Red clover also appears to improve blood flow and may have blood-thinning properties.

Cancer

Historically, red clover has been used to treat cancer, but because of its strong estrogen-like effects, the herb may also increase the growth of some cancers. Current research cannot confirm the safety of red clover for treating cancer, though some preliminary evidence suggests that the herb may kill cancer cells in test tubes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Women with breast cancer or a history of breast cancer should avoid red clover in any form, as it may promote breast cancer cell growth.

Respiratory Problems

In modern herbalism, red clover blossoms provide relief for drippy, irritable coughs in which a thin, clear secretion causes irritation of the cough reflex. In his book "The Book of Herbal Wisdom," Matthew Wood states that red clover has an affinity to the glands around the neck. Whether or not this is true, many natural healers prescribe red clovers for treating whooping cough, asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory problems. Science has not yet examined the herb's action on this condition, though anecdotal evidence remains strong.

Other Uses

Other traditional, though unproven, uses of red clover include treating high cholesterol, prostate enlargement, osteoporosis, psoriasis, eczema, rashes, chest congestion and muscle spasms. The herb is believed to purify the blood, rid the body of excess fluid, improve circulation, cleanse the liver and clear the lungs of mucous. Red clover is most often consumed in the form of a tea or tincture, though it's also available powdered in capsules.