Red Clover.
Botanical Name: Trifolium pratense
Red clover contains approximately 0.17 percent phytoestrogens. These include formononetin, genistein, daidzein, and biochanin A. A volatile oil in the blossoms contains methyl salicylate, among other constituents. Some coumarin derivatives and cyanogenic glycosides have also been isolated. Red clover is used to treat skin conditions, normally in combination with other purifying herbs such as burdock (Arctium lappa) and yellow dock (Rumex crispus). Red clover is also expectorant and may be used for spasmodic coughs. Red clover's estrogenic effect may be of use in treating menopausal complaints.Usually, red clover is taken as a tea by adding 250 ml (1 cup) of boiling water to 2 — 3 teaspoons of dried flowers and steeping, covered, for ten to fifteen minutes. Three cups can be drunk each day. Red clover can also be used in capsule or tablet form in the amount of 2—4 grams of the dried flowers or 2—4 ml of tincture three times per day.
