Menopause Red Clover is becoming more and more popular to help with menopause symptoms, especially hot flashes. This pretty herb has a high concentration of isoflavones (plant estrogens)and anti-oxydants.
It also contains many other beneficial nutrients including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, and vitamin C.
Red Clover is available in capsules, as well as in teas and in liquid form or as a tincture.
The flowers are slightly sweet. You can even add a couple of the flowers to your tea for a very pretty presentation.
Besides the use for menopause, Red Clover is one of the herbs used in 8-herb Essiac tea, a cancer fighting formula that has many followers. It is also used for the treatment of bronchitis, asthma, burns, and cancers and it’s thought to stimulate the immune system.
Clover grows wild in Europe and Asia and has been naturalized in the US. Cattle and sheep use it for grazing.
Benefits of Red Clover for Menopause
Hot Flashes are very common in Menopause. Red Clover’s high concentration of Isoflavones with their estrogen like action will help to relieve hot flash symptoms.
It will also relieve other menopause symptoms that are caused by low estrogen levels (night sweats, skin problems, mood swings, no sex drive etc.)
Clover has been suggested as a treatment for osteoporosis and osteopenia, two common problems associated with estrogen deficiency due to menopause.
The estrogenic activity in Red Clover should help to restore the vaginal lining and help with vaginal thinning and atrophy. The effect of low estrogen on the vaginal tissue often leads to vaginal dryness. This in turn results in painful intercourse and frequent urinary and vaginal infections.
You can brew your own Menopause Red Clover Tea: Just use one two teaspoons of dried red clover blossoms in one cup of tea. This may be a delicious and healthy way to treat your hot flashes and other menopause symptoms. (Well, it may be delicious but you have to drink a lot of this tea to get enough of the active substance to really fight your symptoms.)
Clover is also a great anti-oxidant powerhouse with potential cancer fighting qualities.
Red Clover Side Effects
The herb is well tolerated and safe with few side effects. As with most herbs for menopause, red clover can cause some gastro intestinal discomfort, especially when first used. It is always a good idea to start with smaller doses of any herb and to gradually increase the use.
Due to the concentrated phytoestrogen content, women who have breast cancer should check with their health care provider before using this herb. The same caution is in order for other estrogen sensitive cancers.
Trifolium pratense (the Latin name for Red Clover) contains a natural blood thinner (coumarin) and it is not recommended for people who take blood thinning medication or prior to surgery.
Some people may be allergic to Clover and experience skin rashes, itching skin and other allergic reactions. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking the supplement.
As you can see, menopause Red Clover has a lot to offer. Give it a try and see if it helps with your menopause symptoms.