Red clover, scientifically known as Trifolium pratense, is a herbaceous plant that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Africa but is now found all over the world. The plant has small, sweet-smelling red or purple flowers that are commonly used for medicinal purposes.
Red clover is best known for its medicinal properties. It is a rich source of isoflavones, which are phytoestrogens that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. These isoflavones help in the prevention and treatment of various health problems, including menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases.
Red clover is also a natural blood purifier and is used in the treatment of skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, and rashes. It is also known for its ability to stimulate the immune system and is therefore beneficial in the treatment of infections, colds, and flu.
To prepare red clover, the dried flowers are used to make tea. To make a cup of tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried red clover flowers in boiling water for 10-15 minutes. The tea can be consumed 2-3 times a day.
Overall, red clover is a highly nutritious herb that is rich in antioxidants and has many medicinal properties. It is a safe and effective natural remedy that can be used to treat a variety of health problems.
COMMON NAME Standardized: red clover
BOTANICAL NAME Trifolium pratense L. Plant Family: Fabaceae
OVERVIEW Red clover is a low growing perennial, native to northwest Africa, Asia, and Europe. It has since been naturalized and cultivated in many parts of the world, including North America. The flower heads are collected in full bloom, during the summer months.
Druids believed that it could ward off evil spells and witches, while Medieval Christians believed that the three lobbed leaves were associated with the trinity and the four lobbed leaves as a symbol of the cross.
PARTS USED Flowers, leaves (see photo)
