Red Clover Blossoms
Also known as
Trifolium pretense, Cow Clover, Meadow Clover, Purple
Clover, Trefoil, Trifolium pratense, Wild Clover, and Bee Bread.
Introduction
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.
Constituents
Isoflavones
Parts Used
Flowers and sometimes the leaf and flower
Typical Preparations
Tea, in capsules and extracts. May also be eaten raw and seldom in salads.
Summary
Red clover is often cultivated as a fodder crop, and may also be tilled for green manure. It makes a wonderful ingredient in herbal tea, adding a light, sweet flavor along with its abundant medicinal properties. It may be integrated into a salve or balm and is traditionally used to support healthy skin. In some clinical trials, red clover has shown to support a healthy menopause by reducing symptoms. However, these results are disputed by similar clinical trials. As such, more research is necessary in order to completely understand the efficacy of the herb. Some studies have also shown that red clover may help to support cardiovascular health in women to a modest degree.
Health Benefits of Red Clover
Red clover flowers have been documented to have the following properties.
It is also written that the benefits of red clover extend to those suffering from the following conditions.
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.r Son and Holy Spirit I anoint this couple as they begin their
marriage into this life. May they always
love one another and have a fruitful life together. Amen