Last Updated on November 13, 2023 by Cathy
Many people see red clover as a weed in their yards, but it’s grown for medicinal properties. The leaves and flowers are typically used to make extracts or teas for various health issues. Red clover also benefits people with multiple sclerosis (MS).
This doesn’t mean you can go picking red clovers wherever you see them. People spray toxic chemicals on many grass areas. It is important to ensure that we harvest the red clover from a clean and safe environment.
The tea has a slightly grassy and sweet flavor. It’s hard to explain but it’s not overpowering or leaves a bad aftertaste. The benefit is, that it has many health benefits.
The use of red clover dates back for centuries. It’s used in traditional medicine, such as herbal medicine, for a variety of purposes. Different cultures around the world added it to their healing practices. It’s used for coughs, skin disorders, and menopausal symptoms. Traditional Chinese Medicine used it for skin issues such as itchy or burning rashes.
Today, researchers consider it beneficial for bone health, cardiovascular health, and cancer prevention. The history of wellness is long and includes traditional and modern approaches.
Benefits of Red Clover
While it’s considered a weed, it’s also cultivated for its medicinal properties. They use the leaves and flowers of red clover to make extracts or teas for various health issues. Red clover’s compounds, particularly its isoflavones, have potential detoxifying properties.
Benefits of red clover:
- Bone Health. Isoflavones in red clover help maintain bone density reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
- Cancer Prevention. Helps prevent certain types of cancer due to its isoflavone content.
- Cardiovascular Health. Contributes to cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood vessel function.
- Cleansing. It helps to cleanse the blood, liver, kidneys, and bladder.
- Digestive aid. It can be a helpful digestive aid by reducing symptoms of bloating or gas.
- High in nutrients. Including vitamins A and B complex. It’s also high in minerals such as magnesium, calcium, manganese, and iron.
- Menopausal Symptoms. Helps reduce menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats.
- Skin Health. Some skincare products use red clover extracts since it is beneficial for the skin.
Isoflavones are a type of phytoestrogen, meaning it has potential effects on hormones. Red clover tea is not recommended for pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding.
Multiple Sclerosis
I first learned about the benefits of red clover from the book Healing Multiple Sclerosis. Ann Boroch, the author, drank a quart of it daily to heal from MS. It’s loaded with nutrients and it helps soothe the nerves and promotes calm sleep.
“Red clover tea is one of the best chelators. It will pull the mercury residue from your organs and tissues and clean up your blood, kidneys, and liver.” – Ann Boroch
Red clover eliminates toxins from the bloodstream, liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system. It promotes circulation and the body’s natural elimination process and helps to eliminate “waste” left by pathogens and toxins such as heavy metals. It also removes neurotoxins from the liver (neurotoxins damage the central nervous system).
The cause of MS is due to environmental toxins such as:
- Poor Diet
- Infections (bacteria, parasites, viruses, and yeast overgrowth)
- Environmental toxins (heavy metals, mold, pesticides, etc.)
- Hormones (adrenaline, cortisol, etc.)
- Chronic stress
Lately, I’ve been adding organic red clover tea, after it’s cooled down, to my smoothies. It’s an easy way to include it along with vegetables and other nutrients. I wasn’t sure what to expect but I’ve already seen results. A stubborn rash on my hand cleared up within a couple of days after I started drinking it.
The key to stopping the progression of MS and reversing your symptoms includes:
- Prioritizing nutrition
- Incorporating regular exercise
- Taking time for self-care
- Choosing a clean environment
- Handling stress effectively
Do not drink red clover tea if you have grass allergies or you are on a blood thinning medication.
How to Brew
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For the most benefits, it’s best to drink 2-4 cups each day. It can be challenging if you are dealing with bladder issues but your body does adjust. If you continue having problems you may need to reduce the amount you drink.
Here are some simple brewing tips:
- Measure the right amount. Use about 1-2 teaspoons depending on how strong you want it to 8 ounces of water.
- Heat the water. Filtered water is best then bring it to a boil.
- Steep the tea. Place the dried red clover in a tea infuser or teapot and pour the water over the leaves. Steep it for 7-10 minutes, remove the infuser or strain the liquid into a cup.
I used to use a strainer but then upgraded to a Glass Teapot with a Removable Infuser.
If you just want one cup of tea I like using Buddha Teas Organic Red Clover Flower Tea because they use bleach-free tea bags.
Health Benefits of Red Clover
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Red clover has many health benefits. When you are living with MS your body is full of toxins and inflammation. It can help cleanse these out of your body while protecting the nervous system. Try drinking one or more cups daily for one week and see what happens. You can drink it hot or cold, if you find it too grassy tasting add a touch of raw honey. You can also buy it as a supplement but if you’re like me, you get tired of taking lots of supplements.
Like all herbal remedies, consume red clover tea in moderation. If you take it, ask your healthcare provider first, especially if you take medications. Discover the potential health benefits of red clover. From traditional remedies to modern insights, explore its natural wonders for holistic wellness.
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