Herb of the Week: Red Clover


RED CLOVER

Species: Trifolium pratense

Common names: Red clover, Cow clover, Meadow clover, Trefoil, bee-bread, wild clover.

History/Folklore: Red clover has been used for centuries as part of herbal medicine. It has been used to treat liver disease, cancer, respiratory problems and joint issues. Externally it was used to treat skin problems and speed healing. Traditionally, Red clover is used to improve circulation, increase production of urine, purify the blood and relieve symptoms of menopause.

Another benefit of Red Clover is its use as fodder for grazing animals. It is also used as a green manure and helps if nitrogen fixation. Red Clover is the state flower of Vermont as well as the official flower of Denmark.

Appearance:
Leaves are oblong, green with a white crescent. Flower heads have around 15 magenta/purple tubular flowers. Red clover reaches a height of up to 2 feet.

Parts Used: Flowers, leaves and stems

Collection: When in flower before completely open. April through November

Actions:  depurative, diuretic, tonic, estrogenic, antispasmodic, antfungal
Indications:  Helps to purify the blood as well as increase urine output. Supports health by nourishing the body. Contains isoflavones which act like estrogen in the body. Has been used to alleviate symptoms of Menopause and PMS. Can be used topically for eczema and other skin conditions.

Contraindications: Avoid when pregnant or breastfeeding. 

Cultivation: Seeds

Light: Full sun to part shade

Zones: 4-8

Plant Type: short lived
perennial herb


About Airmeith Naturals

Anna has over 25 years of experience working with herbs. She trained as a chef specializing in classical French cuisine. Anna has extensive knowledge of herbs used in cooking, as well as having researched the historic use of culinary herbs & spices. She is a Certified Community Herbalist who has completed multiple apprenticeships and classes with renowned Herbalists along with her own studies. Her concentration is in Western European Herbal Practices. She has attended college for Environmental Science as well as earning her certificate in Massage Therapy and is licensed in the state of Massachusetts. In addition, Anna is a Certified Reiki Master Teacher. Anna lives in Western Massachusetts with her family and has over an acre of gardens to play in. Anna is the herbalist at Airmeith Naturals in Holyoke Massachusetts
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