Botanical Name: Trifolium pratense
Common Names: Cow Clover, Meadow Clover, Wild Clover, Trefoil
Herbal Energetics:
- Temperature: Cooling
- Moisture: Moistening
Flavor:
- Sweet, slightly salty
Herbal Actions:
- Alterative (blood purifier)
- Lymphatic tonic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic
- Expectorant
- Phytoestrogenic
- Nutritive
- Mild sedative
Organ Affinities:
- Skin
- Lymphatic system
- Reproductive system
- Respiratory system
Uses:
-
Skin Health: Red clover is renowned for its ability to support healthy skin. It is often used in treating conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne due to its blood-purifying properties and ability to eliminate toxins through the skin. It can be used both internally and externally to soothe skin irritations and promote a clear complexion.
-
Women's Health: Due to its phytoestrogenic properties, red clover is commonly used to support hormonal balance, particularly in women. It is beneficial for easing symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, and can help regulate menstrual cycles. Red clover is also considered supportive for overall reproductive health.
-
Respiratory Health: As an expectorant, red clover helps to clear mucus from the lungs and is useful in treating coughs, colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory conditions. It soothes irritated mucous membranes and can help alleviate symptoms of asthma and whooping cough.
-
Lymphatic Support: Red clover acts as a gentle lymphatic tonic, supporting the movement and detoxification of lymphatic fluid. It can help reduce swollen lymph nodes and support overall lymphatic health, making it beneficial in cases of chronic infections and inflammatory conditions.
-
Detoxification and Blood Purification: Red clover is an excellent alterative, meaning it supports the body’s natural detoxification processes. It helps to purify the blood, eliminating toxins and waste products, and is often used in formulas designed to cleanse the body and support liver function.
-
Nutritional Support: Red clover is rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium, making it a nutritious addition to the diet. It is often used in herbal teas to provide general nourishment and support overall well-being.
Preparation and Dosage:
-
Red Clover Tea (Infusion):
- Dosage: Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried red clover blossoms in a cup of boiling water for 10–15 minutes. Drink 2–3 cups daily to support skin health, detoxification, or hormonal balance.
-
Tincture:
- Dosage: 2–4 ml (about 40–80 drops) of a 1:5 tincture in alcohol, taken 2–3 times daily. Use for skin conditions, hormonal support, or lymphatic health.
-
Capsules:
- Dosage: 500–1000 mg of dried red clover, taken 2–3 times daily. Useful for those who prefer not to drink tea or tinctures.
-
Poultice or Compress:
- Dosage: Make a strong infusion of red clover blossoms and apply it as a compress or poultice to irritated or inflamed skin. This can be particularly soothing for conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
-
Syrup:
- Dosage: Make a syrup by simmering red clover blossoms in water, then adding honey. Take 1–2 teaspoons as needed to soothe a cough or support respiratory health.
Contraindications:
-
Hormone-Sensitive Conditions:
- Caution Advised: Due to its phytoestrogenic properties, red clover may not be suitable for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions such as certain types of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or endometriosis. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.
-
Blood-Thinning Medications:
- Potential Interaction: Red clover may have mild blood-thinning effects. Those taking anticoagulant medications or who have bleeding disorders should use red clover under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Materia magica
-
Planetary Correspondence: Venus (associated with love, fertility, and harmony). This connection highlights red clover’s affinity with the feminine reproductive system and its role in promoting beauty and vitality.
-
Deities: Red clover is often associated with goddesses of love, fertility, and the earth, such as:
- Aphrodite: The Greek goddess of love and beauty, reflecting red clover’s connection to women’s health and its beautifying properties.
- Demeter: The Greek goddess of the harvest and fertility, aligning with red clover’s nourishing and fertile qualities.
- Gaia: The Earth Mother in Greek mythology, symbolizing red clover’s grounding and supportive nature.
-
Magical Uses:
- Love and Fertility: Red clover is traditionally used in spells and rituals to promote love, fertility, and harmonious relationships. It can be added to love sachets, baths, or teas to attract love and enhance emotional bonds.
- Protection: Red clover is believed to offer protection against negative energies and bad luck. It can be carried as a talisman, placed in the home, or used in protective spells to ward off harm.
- Prosperity and Abundance: Red clover is associated with good fortune and abundance. It is often used in money-drawing spells or rituals to attract prosperity and financial stability.
- Healing and Purification: Red clover’s purifying properties make it a powerful ally in healing rituals and spells. It can be used to cleanse the body, mind, and spirit of negative influences and promote overall health and well-being.
- Beauty and Youth: The association with Venus makes red clover a popular herb in beauty magic. It can be used in baths, facial steams, or infused into oils to enhance physical beauty and promote a youthful appearance.