Red clover is a legume rich in isoflavones. Red clover contains a variety of isoflavones such as formononetin, daidzein, genisten, and biochanin A. Isoflavones are phytoestrogens which are compounds from plants that demonstrates mild estrogenic activity and anti-estrogen effects. Phytoestrogens have the ability to bind to estrogen receptors and can produce either an anti-estrogenic effect or a pro-estrogenic effect to the target tissue. The kind of effect produced depends on how much estrogen is the body producing and how saturated the estrogen receptor is. Since it contains abundant isoflavones, red clover is most beneficial to women. Red clover is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It is rich in vitamins A, B-12, E, and K. it also has good amounts of iron, silicon, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. Nutrients such as vitamin C, thiamine, and niacin are also found in red clover.
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The benefits of red clover in women are numerous. It can help relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as breast pain. Women undergoing menopause can also take advantage of the many benefits of red clover. It is highly recommended for the general health and well-being of postmenopausal women. It is used as a remedy for the different symptoms of menopause. It can help in alleviating hot flashes/flushes and mood swings. Menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis in women, the isoflavones in red clover can help in slowing down bone loss and boost mineral density in pre and peri-menopausal women. Red clover can also help in preventing the development of estrogen-dependent cancer of the endometrium, the lining of the uterus.
Red clover may block the enzymes that contribute to prostate cancer in men. The estrogen-like effects of red clover can also help treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) which is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Men with enlarged prostate may experience weak or interrupted urine stream, the urge to urinate even after voiding, or dribbling after urinating.
Red clover also acts as liver and blood purifier. It helps in improving circulation, stimulates the secretion of bile, and promotes the production of mucous and urine. Red clover can help in the prevention of heart disease. Taking of red clover can reduce the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol in the body. It can also increase the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol. Thus, normal blood cholesterol levels are maintained. Regular intake of red clover can reduce the formation of blood clots and arterial plaques. This is due to the small amounts of coumarin found in red clover which is a chemical that keeps the blood from getting thick and gummy.
Individuals who have health condition which prevents them from taking estrogen supplements such as women with breast cancer should avoid taking red clover. Pregnant women should also avoid taking red clover. Before taking red clover, a doctor’s approval is needed for the following: women taking birth control pills; smokers; people using blood-thinning medications; and those with history of heart disease and stroke.
