Does Red Clover Balance The Hormones Right Away?

As menopause nears, a woman's estrogen levels begin to fluctuate, which may result in unwanted menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes. Conventional hormone replacement therapy is available by prescription, but for women who prefer a more natural remedy, plant-based phytoestrogen may be of benefit. There is no indication that using phytoestrogens will immediately balance hormone fluctuations. Herbal remedies cannot replace professional medical advice, so talk to your doctor about your symptoms before using red clover to balance hormones.

Properties of Red Clover

Red clover, or Trifolium pretense, grows wild throughout the United States. The scarlet ball-shaped blossoms contain isoflavonoids, classified as phytoestrogens, which are mild plant forms of estrogen, according to the "PDR for Herbal Medicines."

Potential Benefits

Tests of red clover on hormonal imbalances are limited, but it appears that the herb may have a cumulative effect, and beneficial results may take longer than four weeks to realize. A 2002 study, conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Amsterdam, involved administering red clover supplements daily to 30 women. At the end of four weeks, hot flashes decreased by 16 percent. After 12 more weeks, hot flashes decreased by 44 percent, indicating that the longer the women took the red clover supplement, the more effective it was.

Dosage and Method

Red clover is available in health food stores as a tea or in capsules, tablets and tinctures. The "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine" suggests making an herbal tea/infusion by pouring 2 1/2 cups of boiling water over 2 oz. of the herb. Steep for 30 minutes, strain and store in the refrigerator. Sip one or two mouthfuls throughout the day, but do not drink more than one cup daily. You may not see an improvement in your symptoms right away.

Considerations

Don't expect immediate relief from taking red clover, and talk to your doctor if symptoms don't improve after using the herb for a few weeks. There are no reported side effects or drug interactions associated with taking red clover in therapeutic doses, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia." This may be due in part, however, to a lack of scientific research concerning side effects of the herb. In some instances, liquid preparations of red clover may ferment. When this occurs, use of the product may increase the risk of bleeding.