Red Clover - Trifolium pratense
Is there anything as wonderful as seeing a field of flowers in the summer? As the days become long and heat becomes oppressive here in Tennessee, these “weedy” beauties such as Queen Anne’s Lace, Chicory and Red Clover seem to thrive along roadsides and old fields. Red Clover, like many other plants we refer to as “weeds,” is not native to North America, but its virtues as a medicine are significant. Red Clover is a true powerhouse of nutrients and protein. It contains a full chain of amino acids, calcium, vitamin B complex, thiamine, niacin, vitamin c, chromium, magnesium, nickel, potassium and phosphorous. This member of the legume family is a true gift throughout the summer. As it is a legume it is therefore a source of protein. A great benefit to vegetarians. Full of minerals like calcium, thiamine, niacin and B vitamins, it can assist in a long and peaceful sleep.
As it is considered an “alternative” herb, which means it has the ability to heal different areas of your body at once. This is important for absorption of nutrients and detoxifying the body. Using Red Clover in the right way can help to restore hormonal balance and support immune health. This herb is best used as an infusion, left to steep for at least four full hours to get the full mineral nourishment from the plant material. Used in this way, Red Clover is rich with nutrients and natural isoflavones that work naturally to support women experiencing hormone imbalance symptoms like bloating, cramps, cystic acne or PMS. This will NOT ADD hormones to your body, yet work as an "alterative" assisting in finding balance.This along with the circulation support,
The same properties of Red Clover that help the body to establish hormonal balance can be helpful to women who have fertility concerns. Red Clover, fresh or dried, can be an important herb for women who are trying to conceive. The nourishing qualities of Red Clover support the endocrine system and help to improve circulation throughout the body including the womb creating an environment that is "ready" to except an ovum and sperm. This herb is often used in conjunction with Red Raspberry which also helps to strengthen the uterine walls and enhance fertility.
Immune Support
Red Clover is an IMPORTANT immune building herbal ally that provides powerful support to the lymphatic and glandular systems of the body. It is also a powerful expectorant and anti-spasmodic that may be helpful in treating mild infections of the ears and throat, such as bronchitis or asthma. We strongly feel, at MoonMaid, that an infusion is the best way to consume Red Clover as well as most herbs.
Blood cleansing qualities have also been noted as a possible for arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis. This would be linked to the powerful lymph and blood cleansing properties of this valuable plant. This plant seems to be useful in helping to disolve the calcium deposits in the joints. For this issue, a poultice may also be effective to reduce inflammation
It is no wonder this herb is revered by so many herbalists and healers! Enjoy this plant as an infusion, tea or tincture as the most potent ways of receiving the medicine. Or how about a glass of lemonade?
Just what the “doctor ordered” for a hot, summer day!
Red Clover Ginger Lemonade Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 cups of Red clover blossoms
- 1 T fresh grated ginger
- 8 cups of water
- 1 cup of lemon juice
- lemon slices to taste
- 2-3 T of honey (to taste)
Let steep overnight or at least 4 hours.
Once the infusion cools - add the fresh ginger, lemon juice and honey.
Pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices.
Once the infusion cools - add the fresh ginger, lemon juice and honey.
Pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices.
Makes 2-3 servings.
This article written by Jaimie Matzko, Naturalist
All information is for your interest and information only. We do not prescribe, nor make any claims about how herbal medicine will work for you. Please check with your physician before you make any changes to your daily self-care regime.
The information contained in this article was derived form the many herbals in the library at Medicine Woods.