Red clover is a plant with many purported medicinal uses. Historically, it has been used to treat certain types of cancer and respiratory conditions and infections, but more recently it also has been used to improve menopause symptoms and lower cholesterol levels. Men have also turned to red clover supplements to improve the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia, or an enlarged prostate, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. However, not enough medical research has been done to understand how red clover works in the body and whether it is effective in treating an enlarged prostate or any other medical conditions. Consult with a qualified medical professional before using red clover to improve your prostate health.
Plant Description
Red clover is a perennial wildflower that is often found growing in meadows. The plant can reach heights of about 2 feet and produces green stems and foliage and reddish-pink flowers that bloom in late spring, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It is native to Europe, but it can also be grown throughout almost all of the United States and Canada. The flowers are dried for use in medicinal supplements.
Dosage
Men who wish to use red clover supplements to improve enlarged prostate symptoms can choose from several forms, including tincture, fluids extract, powdered herb or dried herb. The dosage depends on what kind of supplement you choose. The recommended dose for fluid extract is 1 mL three times daily, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Men using a tincture can use 60 to 100 drops three times a day. The recommended dose for powdered herb in capsule form is 40mg to 160mg daily. Dried herb can be made into a tea by steeping 1 teaspoon to 2 teaspoons of the dried flowers in 8 ounces of hot water two to three times a day.
Safety Precautions
Men with hormone-related cancers--including prostate cancer--should not use red clover supplements. Because the plant may affect how hormones are produced and used in the body, red clover is not considered safe for men and women who have hormone related conditions, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Because enlarged prostate symptoms can be similar to those of prostate cancer, never self-treat with red clover. First, consult with a medical professional for a thorough exam and diagnosis.
Side Effects
Red clover is generally considered safe when taken as directed for short periods of time. In fact, no serious side effects have been attributed to the supplement in people who have used it for as long as one year, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Commonly reported side effects include nausea, skin rashes and headaches. Be sure to consult with your health-care practitioner before using red clover supplements to make sure you understand all the risks.
Drug Interactions
Red clover supplements may interfere with other drugs you may be taking. For example, red clover may amplify the effects of blood-thinning drugs, increasing your risk of severe bleeding or hemorrhage, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may also alter how the body processes drugs that are broken down by enzymes in the liver. Always discuss all medications and supplements you are using with a medical professional before taking red clover supplements.
Member Comments