Red clover tea is made from the flowers and leaves of the red clover plant and is used for medicinal purposes, particularly for treating menopausal symptoms. It contains phytoestrogens, which mimic estrogen in the body, and coumarin, which acts as a blood thinner. Scientific evidence for its health benefits is lacking, and pregnant women and those with blood clotting problems should avoid it. It is easy to prepare and can be sweetened with honey or sugar and flavored with lemon and mint.
Red clover tea is a drink made from the flowers and leaves of the red clover plant. It is used for a variety of medicinal purposes, the most common of which is the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Its effects are believed to be the result of phytoestrogens, a group of chemicals that mimic the effect of estrogen in the body.
The red clover plant, or Trifolium pratense, is also called cow clover, meadow clover, bee bread, and cow grass. It is widespread and grows both wild and under cultivation. A useful plant for agriculture, it performs nitrogen fixation and feeds cattle that graze along with other animals.
Scientific data on the health benefits of red clover tea is lacking. Some studies claim that red clover can improve bone and artery health. However, a comprehensive 2006 review of the literature in the journal Menopause suggests that there is insufficient evidence to conclude that red clover will relieve hot flashes or protect against cancer. Red clover tea should not be consumed by pregnant women, as it will interfere with the normal hormonal changes necessary to support the fetus.
Proponents of red clover tea (commercially interested and others) suggest that the phytoestrogen it contains is good for general health. These chemicals are claimed to promote the expression of helpful hormones and prevent harmful analogues from taking effect. It is also suggested that these chemicals inhibit cell growth that could be a precursor to cancer. However, a 2004 study in Menopause suggests the exact opposite: that women at risk of estrogen-related cancers, such as breast cancer, should avoid red clover and similar chemicals. The chemical appears to have little effect on men.
Most observers seem to agree that red clover tea acts as a blood thinner. This effect is the result of a blood thinner commonly called coumarin. Coumarin is what makes red clover protect against arteriosclerosis. It also makes the drink potentially dangerous for people who already have problems with blood clotting. It is not a good idea to drink large amounts of red clover tea before an event that may result in extensive bleeding, such as surgery or childbirth.
Red clover tea is quite simple to prepare. Use mostly flowers, but include some leaves. Place a few tablespoons in a pot and add boiling water. Steep for about ten minutes, then add honey or sugar to sweeten. Lemon and mint can be good additions.
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