Menopause can bring a variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats and bone loss. Although there are prescription treatments to help relieve symptoms, red clover is an alternative medicine option that may be helpful for some women. Although it is natural, there are still side effects and interaction possibilities, so prior to taking red clover for menopause symptoms, it is best to consult a health care provider.
History
Red clover is an herb commonly grown in Europe and Asia, and has been cultivated to grow in North America. This herb has been used to help treat a variety of conditions, including whooping cough, eczema and respiratory problems; it has also been used as a diuretic and expectorant, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. This herb also contains isoflavones, which have estrogen-like properties and may be beneficial in treating menopausal symptoms.
Types and Dosage
Red clover can be taken in a variety of ways, including capsules, teas and tinctures, and it can be prepared as a skin lotion. Used as dried herbs for tea, UMMC recommends using 1 to 2 tsp. of dried flowers steeped in 8 oz. of hot water for 30 minutes. Drink the tea two to three times a day. If using red clover tincture, 60 to 100 drops can be used, three times a day. In capsule form, typical dosages range between 40 and 160 mg per day, or 28 to 85 mg of red clover isoflavones.
Effects on Menopause
The isoflavones in red clover are phytoestrogens, or chemicals found in plants that can bind to estrogen receptors in the human body, albeit weakly, according to the website Women to Women. The isoflavones in red clover work especially on the symptoms of hot flashes and night sweats because they work in an adaptogenic way, or by working on bodily responses to chemicals. Studies have been mixed on the actual benefits of red clover, and the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states that the herb has no effects on menopausal symptoms. More studies need to be completed to further explore this herb. The risk of developing osteoporosis increases with menopause because estrogen helps build bones, and red clover may help to slow bone loss and increase pre- or peri-menopausal bone density, reports UMMC.
Side Effects
No long-term studies have been done about the effects of red clover, but several side effects have been noted. Women to Women notes that this herb may have blood-thinning properties, so women taking medications for blood thinning should talk with a physician before taking red clover. Other side effects as listed by UMMC include rash, nausea and headache. Menopausal women who are taking hormone replacement therapy or tamoxifen or who have had breast cancer should consult a health care professional prior to using red clover to treat menopausal symptoms.
Warning
Red clover is an herbal medication, and not subject to approval by the Food and Drug Administration for safety. Prior to using red clover for menopausal symptoms, it is best to consult a health care provider to avoid any possible medication interactions or adverse effects.
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