Red clover is native to Europe and is now found throughout the world. The flower heads are bright red and are chosen by herbalists. They’re dried and used as immune system stimulants and are considered to rid the body of waste. This isn’t just some old world remedy we’re talking when we state that red clover may be of some nutrient or curative power.
The flowers
The flowers are full of isoflavones that could inhibit some carcinogens. They’re used in herbal anti cancer formulations. Genistein, a phytoestrogen, is also found in red clover. Residing mainly from the pea family, genistein has been researched and has been used in products which are claimed to decrease the symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and bone loss in the lower portions of the body, in addition to supplying cardiovascular system protection.
Phytoestrogens
These are plentiful from the plant species which produce soybeans, peas, and other legumes. They’re also in the popular flax seed. While not as powerful in humans as animal estrogens, these plant estrogens may play a weaker role in the human body as the human form of the hormone. Estrogen regulation is 1 benefit, leading to hormone balancing and relief from the symptoms of menopause and PMS. There are different applications traditionally ascribed to red clover. It’s been used in the treatment of conditions affecting the respiratory system, skin disorders, weak appetite, constipation, and as a liver and gall bladder stimulant.
Additionally it is taken internally and externally for skin problems like eczema and psoriasis, for which it’s been shown to provide relief. This herb can be infused into hot water as a tea by using one tablespoon of the red flowers per cup. It’s ideal to steep it for at least 20 minutes. For this period of time it might actually be useful to simmer it rather than simply steeping, because in the time that the water could cool, but if you begin with very hot water then steeping is fine.
Conclusion
If you steep only, let it go for a whole 30 minutes. One cup a few times daily on an empty stomach between meals is advised. Like any herbal remedy, check if there are drug interactions with any medication you might be taking. Generally , red clover isn’t something to be worried about, but if you have liver or liver conditions you may want to ask a doctor first.