Red clover known as Trifolium pratense botanically is a dark-pink herbaceous plant originating from Europe, Asia, and North and belongs to the legume family. The European herb has been a popular plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Not only is it associated with good luck and prosperity, but red clover is also valued for its agricultural benefits, medicinal properties, and ecological roles. The article delves into the health benefits of this beautiful plant and ways to use it.
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Used in the olden days as a forage crop for livestock due to its nutritional value, the herb started gaining popularity as an important herbal medicine. A well-known remedy for menopause symptoms, whooping cough, asthma, and arthritis, it is rich in protein and several vitamins and minerals. The extracts are a powerful dietary supplement for both humans and even for animals. Moreover, like other legumes, red clover also helps to fix nitrogen in the soil which improves the soil fertility.
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What Are The Uses of Red Clover Extracts?
The plant has been used for various purposes due to its rich nutrient profile and potential health benefits. Here are some other uses of red clover:
- Herbal Tea: Red clover flowers are commonly used to make herbal teas that offer various wellness benefits.
- Supplements: Red clover is used in supplement form, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts.
- Topical Applications: Red clover extracts are used in creams or ointments for skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
- Garnishing: The flowering portion of red clover is used decoratively as an edible garnish or extract, and extracted into essential oils
Also Read: The Elixir Of Youth: Proven Ayurvedic Herbs For Astounding Anti-Ageing Benefits
Health Benefits Of Red Clover
Here are potential wellness benefits the deep red herb offers:
Remedies Menopausal Symptoms
Red clover is often used to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats. This is due to its high content of isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein which helps to soothe menopausal symptoms.
Augments Bone Health
The herb helps to improve bone mineral density, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis owing to its isoflavone content.
Promotes Skin Health
Due to its antioxidant properties, red clover is used in several skincare products to promote clearer and healthier skin. It may help reduce inflammation and improve overall skin appearance.
Cardiovascular Support
The isoflavones in red clover can help to improve cardiovascular health by reducing LDL or bad cholesterol levels and increasing HDL or good cholesterol, thus supporting heart health.
Reduces Oxidative Stress
Flavonoids and phytochemicals are known to combat oxidative stress in the body which can be the prime cause of chronic diseases. The pink herb contains these antioxidants in abundance.
What Are The Side Effects Of Red Clover Herb?
Red clover may cause the following side effects in some individuals:
- Hormonal Effects: Due to its estrogenic-like effects, individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, and uterine cancer should avoid or use caution with red clover.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to red clover, especially those allergic to other plants in the legume family.
- Blood Clotting: There is a concern that red clover might increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in individuals taking blood-thinning medications.
- May Cause Body Heat: It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to its potential hormonal effects.
How To Brew Red Clover Tea?
Here is a simple way to relish a flavourful tea made of red clover herb:
Ingredients
- Dried red clover blossoms or tea bags
- Water
- Ginger, honey, or lime if desired
Method
- Boil water in a kettle or a pot
- Add about 1-2 teaspoons of the dried flowers into a tea infuser or a teapot.
- Pour the boiling water over the red clover blossoms
- Let the tea steep for 5 to 10 minutes or more. Longer steeping times generally result in a stronger flavour.
- Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea to remove the red clover blossoms. (If you used tea bags, remove them)
- Add honey, lemon, ginger or other flavourful ingredients if desired.
- Pour the brewed red clover tea and relish it hot. Alternatively, you can let it cool and serve it over ice as an iced tea.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Preeti Sharma:
Preeti Sharma has a Master's in Electronic Media and Mass Communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
Evaluation of Clinical Meaningfulness of Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) Extract to Relieve Hot Flushes and Menopausal Symptoms in Peri- and Post-Menopausal Women:
References:
Wiesław Kanadys, Agnieszka Barańska
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8069620/
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/28/13/5178
