Red clover is a wildflower that has been used medicinally for many years. In herbal supplements, the heads of the red clover flowers are used to make extracts that are put in tablet or capsule form, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Therapeutic use of red clover does appear safe, but its effectiveness is not fully understood. Consult with a trusted medical professional before using red clover to improve your health.
Menopause Symptoms
Red clover is sometimes recommended for use in treating the symptoms of menopause. Its use in this regard is based on the presence of isoflavones in the plant, which have an estrogen-like effect in the body and may help relieve menopause symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The isoflavones are also thought to be useful in preventing osteoporosis in menopausal women. However, studies into red clover's effectiveness in treating menopause symptoms and related osteoporosis have been mixed. It's best to consult with a medical professional before using red clover in this regard.
Cancer
Some research has shown that red clover may inhibit the growth of cancer cells, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Based on these results, red clover could in theory help prevent certain forms of cancer. However, the studies have been performed in a laboratory and not in humans. Cancer is a life-threatening condition. Do not use red clover to self-treat cancer unless you are under the care of a knowledgeable cancer doctor who can advise you on how to use it. Additionally, red clover should never be used by men with prostate cancer who are undergoing radiation therapy.
Heart Health
In theory, red clover may be beneficial in promoting heart health and preventing heart disease because of how the isoflavones in the plant affect cholesterol levels, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. However, no scientific study has yet demonstrated this effect conclusively. Heart disease is serious and life-threatening. Do not use red clover to improve your heart health unless under the care of a qualified medical practitioner.
Nausea
In addition to potential benefits, people taking red clover may experience some side effects from the herb. Nausea and stomach upset are possible in some users, although this effect is generally mild, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Always discuss your use of red clover supplements with a doctor who can advise you of all the potential risks.
Bleeding
Use of supplements containing fermented red clover may increase a person's risk of experiencing severe bleeding, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It also may intensify the effects of blood-thinning medications. Do not use red clover supplements if you have a bleeding disorder or if you are taking blood-thinning medications.
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