Herbal Supplements: Red Clover

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Red clover, also known as trifolium praetense, is a wild flower that is native to Central Asia, Africa, most of Europe, and North America. As a member of the legume family, red clover is used worldwide as a source of hay for farm animals which include horses, cows, and sheep, and by humans as a source of protein by the use of both the leaves and young sprouts. Historically, it has been recognized as a medicinal plant to improve lymph flow, support the immune system, as well as treat a wide variety of conditions such as, cancer, respiratory diseases, joint pains, skin problems such as, acne, psoriasis and eczema, and recently in treatment of menopausal symptoms; it is also believed that Native Americans used red clover to treat those with sore eyes and as a salve for burns. During the pagan era, red clover was highly praised for its magical powers to protect against witchcraft, evil spirits, diseases, and the evil eye (All4NaturalHealth, 2012). In recent years, red clover has been recognized as a menopausal herb to remedy menopausal symptoms. According to researchers, this effect is due to the isoflavones, a form of phytoestrogen, which is a water-soluble plant chemical that can act like the hormone estrogen. At least six clinical trials have been conducted on the effect of red clover isoflavones on vasomotor symptoms; about half show benefits and the others do not (Ernst, E., et al, 2007). To have an effect, it has been discussed that red clover isoflavones probably require the same sort of healthful gut flora as soy products, in fact, the inconsistent results with red clover are very similar to those seen with soy. Baber, R.J., et al (1999) noted in their research, the first two studies on red clover and hot flashes showed no statistically difference between the red clover extract and a soy placebo during a three month period, although both groups did show

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