1. Travels the Continents
Red clover, a wild plant native to Europe and Asia, is well known in North America. It has been used historically to feed livestock and to make herbal medicines. The red clover flower is used for medicinal purposes such as cough remedies and skin salves for conditions like eczema. For practical use, it is dried and then brewed as a tea or powder and packed into capsules for a more concentrated dose. A concentrated red clover extract can be used directly or added to teas or similar preparations.
2. From Blood Purification to Women's Health
In European and Asian routine medicinal practices, red clover was called a "blood purifier," most likely because it stimulates urination and causes the body to produce more mucous. Red clover has been used in treating a wide range of health problems including joint disorders and mammary gland infections. Additionally, it is often used to help relieve problems stemming from issues related to the female reproductive system such as breast tenderness associated with the menstrual cycle and menopausal symptoms.
3. Packed With the Right Stuff
Red clover is high in Vitamin C, potassium, calcium, magnesium and chromium. The red clover plant contains isoflavones, known as phytoestrogens, which are plant compounds that imitate estrogen in the human body. The traditional medicinal uses of red clover are most likely related to its high vitamin, mineral and isoflavone content.
4. Controversial Cancer Connection
Through the years, red clover has been used to fight cancerous diseases. Modern herbal medicine experts recommend it in the prevention and treatment of prostate and endometrial cancers. It appears that the isoflavones in red clover kill cancer cells in laboratory animal experiments. However, because isoflavones act like estrogen in the human body, red clover may also promote female reproductive cancers such as in the breast. This factor makes the use of red clover in cancer treatments controversial.
5. Make Sure It's a Good Match
If you are considering taking a red clover supplement there are a few things to think about. If you've had breast cancer you should avoid supplements high in phytoestrogens. The phytoestrogens in red clover may also interfere with hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills. You should avoid taking red clover supplements with diabetes medications, blood thinners and the anti-cancer drug Tamoxifen. Red clover is also a no-no if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
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