Red Clover Leaf Infusion 101

[Pat Robinson]

Red Clover Leaf Infusion 101

Red Clover Leaf and Flower Profile
Also known as- Trifolium pretense, Cow Clover, Meadow Clover, Purple Clover, Trefoil, Trifolium pratense, Wild Clover

Introduction
Red clover is a perennial plant that grows wild in most temperate climates. It has been used medicinally to treat a wide variety of conditions, many of them having to do with reproductive functions and menopause. While these
uses are traditional, modern science has recently isolated isoflavones from red clover plants that are similar in shape and action to estrogen. Among its common uses are to relieve the symptoms of PMS in premenopausal women, and in place of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women. Studies have suggested that red clover isoflavones are more effective in reducing heat flashes than pharmaceutical preparations, and can delay bone loss associated with osteoporosis.

Red clover also appears to reduce the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, limit the progress of benign prostate hyperplasia and reduce the buildup of plaque that causes heart disease. Finally, red clover has been used
topically to help treat psoriasis and other skin conditions, and promote healing in skin wounds while reducing infection.

Constituents
Isoflavones

Parts Used
Flowers and sometimes the leaf and flower

Red clover may help reduce the effects of PMS and menopause and reduce the pain associated with menstrual periods. The estrogen-like action limits grown in benign prostate hyperplasia in men, and reduces the severity and frequency of hot flashes during menopause in women. Used topically, it promotes healing of skin wounds and conditions like psoriasis. Taking red clover may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by improving the cholesterol profile and toning the arterial walls, as well as by preventing the clumping of red blood cells that
build up on the linings of arteries. The flowers are the most potent but are far harder to produce and the price reflects. A suitable alternative although less potent is the leaf and flower.

Precautions:
Red clover should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women, as the effects on developing fetus and infants is not determined. There are some studies that suggest taking red clover may affect fetal development. It
is also recommended that you do not take red Clover while on blood thinning medication http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/learn/redclover_flower.html


---Medicinal Action and Uses--- The fluid extract of Trifolium is used as an alterative and antispasmodic.
An infusion made by 1 OZ. to 1 pint of boiling water may with advantage be used in cases of bronchial and whooping-cough. Fomentations and poultices of the herb have been used as localapplications to cancerous
growths. http://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/clovrd75.html


Susan Weed lists red clover as the single most useful herb in establishing fertility.This herb's high vitamin content is very valuable to the uterus and it's highprotein content benefits the whole body. It's also quite high in calcium & magnesium which relax the nervous system and help promote fertility. This herb also contains nearly every trace mineral needed by the glands. Daily use can help balance hormonal functioning.

Red clover contains isoflavones which have shown to be useful in helping to alleviate the symptoms of female menopause.

It is also used to to promote general prostate health and normal urinary tractfunction in males, and to support normal cholesterol levels.

This herb is a source of many valuable nutrients including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, and vitamin C. It is also considered to be one of the richest sources of isoflavones (water-soluble chemicals that act like estrogens and are found in many plants).

In folk medicine, it has been used to promote lymph flow and support immune system function. It is suggested to provide a mild sedative effect that can relax and relieve muscle cramping and nervousness.

Red clover is also known as a blood purifier, useful for improving the overall health of the liver. It may also act as a digestive aid and stimulator of digestive fluids and bile production.

Red clover helps with muscle relaxation and also is a good expectorant. Topically, it has been traditionally used as remedy for eczema.

Traditionally, the blossoms were used as a tonic taken in the spring to promote good health and peace of mind.

Other common uses of Red clover in herbal medicine include blood purification, alterative, antineoplastic, skin ailments, wounds; antispasmodic, bronchitis, coughs.
http://www.herbalremediesinfo.com/redclover.html



Contraindications: It is contraindicated in pregnancy and for individuals using blood thinning agents. Red clover's action as a blood thinner will potentiate the effect of other blood thinning agents.

http://www.familyherbalremedies.com/red_clover.html

Per Kellymom: Non-fermented red clover is reported relatively safe for nursing moms. However, fermented red clover should be avoided altogether.
http://www.kellymom.com/herbal/ref/herbs_r.html

However, most mainstream sites say for nursing women not to take Red Clover due to estrogen like properties.
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/red-clover-000270.htm
http://www.pdrhealth.com/drugs/altmed/altmed-mono.aspx?contentFileN...


Herbs for Fertility by Susun S. Weed
"One of the most cherished of the fertility-increasing plants is red clover (Trifolium pratense). "
http://www.naturalmom.com/fertherb.htm

"Plants contain many types of phytoestrogens; additionally, they contain minerals and other constituents which help our bodies modify the phytoestrogens and so we can use them safely. Red clover, for instance, is mineral-rich and contains all four of the major types of phytoestrogens: lignans, coumestans,
isoflavones, and resorcylic acid lactones. It is the world's best-known anti-cancer herb."
http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/Weed_letter_Feb-02.htm


"Phytoestrogenic food-like herbs are generally considered longevity tonics. For optimum effect, use only one from the list below and to stick with it for at least three months. Citrus peel, dandelion leaves and/or roots, fenugreek seeds, flax seeds, green tea, hops, red clover, red wine. " http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/Weed_letter_Feb-02.htm


Pat

[Jennifer Lynn]

I wonder what the preparation would be to use it topically on the skin conditions mentioned psoriasis and eczema. Just make an infused oil and then turn it into a salve...??

[Pat Robinson]

I see Red Clover oils and salves mentioned elsewhere. But, I haven't made an herbal salve yet. It is on my 'to do' list for this year. This would allow you to have it on hand.

I would think, like plantain, the herb could be made into a compress directly, or use the infusion as a compress, most easily.

Pat