The Institute for Optimum Nutrition
Common name: Wild clover
Botanical name: Trifolium pratense
© Steven Foster
This plant grows in Europe and North America. The flowering tops are used in botanical medicine. Another plant, white clover, grows in similar areas. Both have white arrow-shaped patterns on their leaves.
Red clover has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Science Ratings | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
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 |
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 Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit. |
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Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western folk medicine used this plant as a diuretic, a cough expectorant (an agent that promotes discharge of mucus from the respiratory passages), and an alterative.1 Alterative plants were considered beneficial for chronic conditions, particularly those afflicting the skin.
Red clover is known as an alterative agent—in other words, one that produces gradual beneficial changes in the body, usually by improving nutrition; also known as a “blood cleanser.” It is a traditional remedy for psoriasis and eczema. However, the mechanism of action and constituents responsible for red clover’s purported benefit in skin conditions are unknown.
Modern research has revealed that red clover also contains high amounts of isoflavones, such as genistein, which have weak estrogen-like properties.2 Modern research has focused on a red clover extract high in isoflavones as a possible treatment for symptoms associated with menopause and cardiovascular health in menopausal women. In a double-blind study, administration of 80 mg of isoflavones per day from red clover reduced the frequency of hot flashes in postmenopausal women. The benefit was noticeable after 4 weeks of treatment and became more pronounced after a total of 12 weeks.3 Another double-blind trial found that red clover improved cardiovascular function in menopausal women.4 Various laboratory studies and one case report of a man with prostate cancer suggest red clover isoflavones may help prevent cancer.5 6 In another case study, use of red clover by a man with prostate cancer led to noticeable anticancer effects in his prostate after the cancer was surgically removed. Although the isoflavones in red clover may help prevent certain forms of cancer (for example, breast and prostate), further studies are needed before red clover is recommended for cancer patients.
Traditionally, red clover is taken as a tea, by adding 1 cup (250 ml) of boiling water to 2 to 3 teaspoons (10 to 15 grams) of dried flowers and steeping, covered, for ten to fifteen minutes.7 Three cups (750 ml) can be drunk each day. Red clover can also be used in capsule or tablet form, equivalent to 2 to 4 grams of the dried flowers. Also, 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon (2 to 4 ml) of tincture three times per day may be taken. Standardized extracts providing 40 mg isoflavones per day are available as well.8
Nonfermented red clover is relatively safe. However, fermented red clover may cause bleeding and should be avoided. Red clover supplements should be avoided by pregnant or breast-feeding women and their safety has not been established in young children and infants.
Are there any drug
interactions?
Certain medicines may interact with red clover. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.
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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.
* General Disclaimer - Information and advice provided by The Institute for Optimum Nutrition is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Anyone suffering from a condition that requires medical attention or has symptoms that concerns them, should consult a qualified medical practitioner.ION and its staff shall not be held responsible for any claims relating to illness or ailments that are deemed to have arisen as a consequence of reading any part, or all of the content provided on this website. The content is provided for general use and may be unsuitable for people suffering from conditions, diagnosed or otherwise. The Institute for Optimum
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