Botanical Overview
Trifolium pratense, commonly known as Red clover, belongs to the Fabaceae family. The flowers are the primary medicinal part used, harvested from this herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia, and North America.
Energetics
Red clover has a cooling temperature and moistening moisture characteristic with sweet and bitter tastes. It is generally relaxing in tonicity and is associated with the blood system in traditional energetic concepts.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Emmenagogue
- Phytoestrogenic
- Expectorant
Indications
Western
- Menopausal hot flashes
- Respiratory catarrh
- Skin inflammation
- Poor blood circulation
Syndromes
- Menopausal symptoms
- Chronic bronchitis
- Eczema
- Venous insufficiency
TCM
No notable traditional Chinese Medicine indications documented.
Ayurveda
No specific Ayurvedic indications documented.
Unani
No specific Unani indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The flowers contain isoflavones including formononetin, biochanin A, as well as coumarins, flavonoids, and volatile oils responsible for its estrogenic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g of dried flowers, 1-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Red clover is generally well tolerated but should be used cautiously in hormone-sensitive conditions due to its phytoestrogen content. Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Potential interactions with blood thinners and estrogen-modulating medications require monitoring.
Astrological Correspondences
Astrological planetary and elemental rulers are not well-established for Trifolium pratense in reputable sources.
Selected References
- Trifolium pratense (Red Clover) – Plants For A Future
- Assessment report on Trifolium pratense L., flos – EMA/HMPC (2015)
- Red Clover – Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (2023)