Red clover (Trifolium pratense Leguminosae/Papilionaceae)

Other Names: Meadow Clover, Cow Clover

Red clover, a short-lived perennial, grows up to 40 inches tall and is found across Europe, particularly in sandy meadows. Its hairy stems bear long-stalked, oval leaves, typically in groups of three with white markings. Fragrant, pinkish-purple flowers form globular heads, blooming in late spring and summer.

Parts for Use

Flowers

1. Flowers are picked as they open in late spring and early summer.
2. They are dried and used to prepare infusions, liquid extracts, tinctures, and ointments.

Ingredients

Red clover contains isoflavones with estrogen-like effects, salicylates with anti-inflammatory properties, phenolic glycosides, and saponins. It also includes sitosterol, which research suggests may be effective against certain cancers.

Use in Treatment

Red clover is used internally and externally for skin diseases, including eczema and psoriasis, due to its anti-inflammatory properties from isoflavones and salicylates. It may help relieve sore throats, mouth ulcers, and spasmodic cough due to its expectorant effects from saponins. The plant’s diuretic properties may support gout treatment by aiding toxin excretion. Red clover is also believed to stimulate the liver and gallbladder, promoting healthy digestion and potentially addressing slow digestion. Recent research suggests isoflavones may alleviate menopausal symptoms due to their estrogenic effects, though evidence is limited. Use for gout, sore throat, and mouth ulcers requires medical supervision due to potential risks and serious health implications.

Cultivation

Sow red clover seeds in spring in moist, well-drained soil in a sunny location.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Skin Diseases, Gout, Cough, Slow Digestion)

1. Infusion: Steep 2 teaspoons of dried flower heads in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes, strain, and drink 3 cups daily.
2. Liquid Extract (1:1 in 25% alcohol): Take 1.5–3 ml daily.
3. Tincture (1:10 in 45% alcohol): Take 0.5–1 teaspoon daily.

For External Use (Skin Diseases, Gout, Sore Throat, Mouth Ulcers)

1. Compress: Soak a clean cloth in the infusion and apply to affected areas.
2. Rinse and Gargle: Use the infusion for sore throat and mouth ulcers.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for gout, sore throat, and mouth ulcers.
2. Avoid red clover if trying to conceive, as it may act as a contraceptive.
3. Do not use in individuals with a history of tumors, as it may stimulate tumor growth due to estrogen-like effects.
4. Avoid concurrent use with anticoagulants.
5. Avoid fermented red clover, as it may cause internal bleeding.