Red Clover Facts

Red clover, though traditionally used to feed cattle and other grazing livestock, has also been used as a folk remedy to cure many ailments. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), the plant still has medical value today.

Function

• Red clover is loaded with nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and niacin. It also contains chemicals known as isoflavones that function like estrogen in the body.

Function

• The isoflavones have a positive effect on numerous conditions such as osteoporosis, heart health and hot flashes, according to the UMMC.

Warning

• While taking red clover is generally well-tolerated, there are some side effects. Most often people will experience nausea and headaches. Red clover may also interfere with some medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor before beginning to take it.

Cancer

• According to the UMMC, researchers are beginning preliminary studies into red clover's affect on cancer. Some early evidence demonstrated it killed cancer cells in a test tube.

Geography

• Red clover originated in Europe and Asia, but it now also grows naturally in North America.