Since the 1800s, red clover has been used for a variety of home remedies and natural cures. It has been used historically in Russia and throughout China for medicinal purposes, and, today is being researched in-depth for the potential benefits to patients who are battling particular ailments. The following is a brief description of red clover, it’s preparations, uses for home remedies and more.
Scientific Name
Known scientifically as Trifolium pretense, red clover is one of the first agricultural crops in the world. It is also commonly referred to by the following names:
- Purple clover
- Cow clover
- Sweet clover
- Trifolium
Description
Red clover qualifies as a legume that is pretty easy to identify due to its distinct leaves, which feature three leaflets. It gets its name from the pink or purple flowers that are ball shaped and sweet smelling. Red clover is often found growing wild, but it doesn’t do well in soil that is rocky or sandy. The seed can be purchased and planted, as well, in either the fall or the spring months.
Typical Preparations
Red clover can be found in the form of liquid extracts, teas and capsule form. However, the dried fresh flowers can also be crushed and made into tea at home.
Common Uses of Red Clover
Red clover can be used in the healing of:
- Wounds
- Coughs
- Water retention
It has also been promoted as a possible treatment for cancer, although current studies are still inconclusive. Currently, it is being studied for its potential benefits in treating the symptoms of menopause, heart disease, prostate problems and diabetes.
As a popular folk remedy, red clover is commonly used as a diuretic. It is also useful for the treatment of:
In recent studies, red clover has been successful in killing various strains of bacteria – including those that cause tuberculosis. New studies have also found it to be effective in treating high blood pressure.
Precautions
Red clover is known to possess strong phytoestrogenic activity, so those who are unable to tolerate supplements of estrogen, should not use red clover. In large doses, red clover has also been tied to infertility, miscarriages and birth defects. Women who take birth control pills, people who smoke cigarettes and people with a history of having heart disease shouldn’t take red clover without first consulting with a physician.
Scientific studies continue to be performed to discover the further health benefits of red clover. However, those who have used it as a folk remedy for generations know it to be a powerful and effective herb. Of course, a lifestyle focused on maintaining health through a natural diet, daily exercise and regular self-care is the best defense against warding off disease and illness. However, when illness strikes, red clover can serve as a useful healing agent.
