Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is considered to be one the richest sources of isoflavones. Isoflavones are plant compounds that act like estrogen and are also called phytoestrogens. The herb is usually used to ease hormonal imbalance in women (PMS, hot flashes in menopausal women) but can also help lower "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and increase the "good" HDL cholesterol in serum. Clover also helps enhance urine flow, improve blood circulation, reduce build up of arterial plaque and prevent osteoporosis.
Researchers believe that phytoestrogens attach themselves to estrogen receptors in the body and may reduce the chance of developing estrogen-dependent cancer of the endometrium (uterine lining tissue.) Research suggests that clover may also interfere with an enzyme known to promote tumor growth in the uterus. It may also block enzymes that promote genesis of prostate cancer in man.
Red clover is rich in calcium, chromium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and vitamins B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin) and C.
When you decide to forage red clover on you next walk in the "wild" make sure that you pick up your herb in areas away from road traffic and other sources of contamination.
Add clover to salads or make a healing tea to profit from its health benefits.
~ Tossed Salad With Red Clover ~
Ingredients:
for the salad
- a bowl of mixed lettuce ( I used endive, baby romaine lettuce and radicchio)
- 1/2 cup mixed herbs
- 1/2 cup micro-greens (I used red radish and red cabbage sprouts)
- 5-6 radishes, sliced
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- handful of fresh red clover flowers
for the dressing
- 1/3 cup cold pressed evening primrose oil
- 2 Tbsp virgin olive oil
- 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 Tbsp raw honey
- pinch pink Himalaya salt
- freshly ground black pepper
Method:
- Toss the lettuce leaves into a bowl. Add herbs, micro-greens, radishes and cucumber.
- Whisk a smooth dressing using all the dressing ingredients. Adjust the taste to your personal liking.
- Pour dressing over the salad and mix gently. Add clover and toss again.
- Serve and enjoy in good company!
In radiant health, passionately raw - Dominique
Dominique Allmon©2014
*Information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure a disease.