Red Clover- Trifolium pratense
alterative, antibiotic(mild), anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-neoplastic, anti-spasmodic, anti-tumor, blood purifier, depurant, diuretic, expectorant, female tonic, laxative, nervine, nutritive, sedative.
Red Clover, Trifolium pratense, definately deserves to be the 1st herb of my journal. My earliest “herb memory” is Red Clover blossoms. As a young girl, I was told that I could “suck” the nectar out of the petals. I thought this was very cool. Little did I know, Red Clover had just become my herbal ally.
Turns out Red Clover is one of the best mucous clearers. It’s a great choice for all types of cancer throughout the body. Maybe you’ve heard of Red Clover Compound or Hoxie Formula, both have a long history of use as alterative, cancer formulas. For acne, make a strong red clover tea and use as a skin wash. It calms the nerves during periods of exhaustion. It’s a loved tonic due to its high mineral & vitamin content.
It contains a trace element Molybdenum, which helps to facilitate the release of nitrogen from the body. It also helps improves lactation in nursing mothers. This makes sense to me…increases nutrition, clears out waste, and calms the body in time of exhaustion….better lactation:) Why does it work so well for skin problems? Maybe because Red Clover supplies the body with such wonderfully absorbable nourishment plus removes waste, and skin problems are a symptom of toxicity within the body. An invaluable herb for children that can be made into a mildly tasty tea by itself or blended with other herbal favorites. Red Clover also contains active phytoestrogens (more than soy) that help to prevent and combat breast cancer.
It’s such a fabulous wide ranging herb that it should be in everyone’s herbal medicine cabinet. Use for all ages. Infuse the fresh or dried blossoms or make a Red Clover vinegar the whole family can enjoy.
Caution: Red Clover is a natural blood thinner and should not be used by anyone taking blood thinning drugs (Coumatin).
Please remember what a wonderful gift laughter is and enjoy some with those you love each day. Herbs Rock:)