What is Red Clover

Red clover, or Trifolium pratense, is a species of clover believed to have therapeutic benefits, particularly for treating menopause and some respiratory problems. It is also grown as a fodder crop and has often been selected for agriculture use. What is red clover, what does it look like, what are its benefits, and what are its precautions? All these will be discussed here.

1. Physical aspects: What is red clover?

Red clover is a herbaceous perennial plant native to western Asia, northwest Africa, and Europe; it varies in size, and can grow from 20 to 80 cm tall. It has three leaflets, termed as trifoliate; each leaflet ranging from 15 to 30 mm long and 8 to 15 mm wide. The leaflets have a green color, with a pale crescent around the outer half of the leaves. It has dark pink flowers with a paler base which produce a dense inflorescence. Because of its wide use, it has been naturalized in temperate areas, including Australasia and the Americas.

2. Agricultural benefits: What is red clover?

As mentioned, red clover is grown as fodder cop and is utilized by many Cultivar Groups for agricultural use. Derived from var. sativum. it increases soil fertility due to its nitrogen fixation.

3. Menopausal benefits: What is red clover?

Red clover contains isoflavones and phytoestrogens, two components believed to help treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes. Isoflavens in particular, are said to mimic the effects of estrogen—the female sex hormone. Thus, scientists are testing red clover as an alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy—a treatment that has shown to increase the risk of breast cancer with its continued use. Red clover extract in the form of pills and herbal supplements are currently being sold in the market.

4. Other benefits: What is red clover?

Red clover is also sold and marketed as a treatment for respiratory problems such as whooping cough and bronchitis. It is also marketed as a remedy for chronic skin conditions such as sores, eczema, psoriasis, and scrofula. It can also be gargled as a treatment for sore throats and mouth ulcers.

IMPORTANT: Now that you know what is red clover, take in mind that red clover sold in any form, as herbal supplements, extracts, or in natural form, is not regulated and evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration Board. To confirm the cleanliness and integrity of the product (that the bottle contains what the label claims), choose a product that is made by manufacturer who strictly adheres to GMP standards.