The pretty flowering tops of the red clover are the medicinally active part of the plant. It is a phytoestrogenic agent. This means that it contains plant estrogens, compounds that look similar to human estrogen and can interact with estrogen receptors in the human body. The important thing to remember is that these plant estrogens only stimulate the receptors a fraction of the amount that the hormone estrogen would.

Red Clover Health Benefits

Red clover can be used to treat conditions of high estrogen activity, by blocking the activity of the hormone estrogen. It can also treat conditions of low estrogen activity by binding to vacant receptor sites and causing a bit of hormonal stimulation. It may be used to help menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes, anxiety and depression, and PMS. A liquid extract format is popular in Europe as a detoxification agent that targets the kidneys and liver.

Choosing Quality Supplements

Red clover supplements can be purchased as encapsulated herb, loose herb or liquid extract. Be sure to purchase a product that has been standardized to the isoflavone content. This is an assurance that the product contains red clover and has some active properties. It can also be found in formulas for hormonal balancing and detoxification.

Cautions & Considerations

Red clover should not be used concurrently with blood thinners or NSAIDs. Individuals with active bleeding or blood disorders should not use this herb. Breastfeeding mothers, pregnant women and those with a history of estrogen sensitive tumours should not use it. Discontinue use of this supplement 14 days prior to surgery or dental work. Theoretically it may alter levels of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement medication.