Herb library · Herb · Trifolium pratense
Red Clover
A meadow legume containing isoflavones that resemble estrogen, sold for women's health. Research on hot flashes, cholesterol, and bone density has not shown conclusive benefit.
Traditional use
Like peas and beans, red clover is a legume, native to Europe, central Asia, and northern Africa. Its blossoms were boiled into strong decoctions and extracts in 19th-century American medicine. Today red clover supplements are sold for women's health, especially menopause.
What studies show
- Limited
Hot flashes with menopause: study results are inconsistent, and some studies had a high risk of bias.
- Limited
Cholesterol: it may have a beneficial effect in postmenopausal women, but findings conflict and more research is needed.
- Limited
Bone density: only a small number of studies in postmenopausal women, with inconsistent results.
Be careful of
Cautions
- NoteRed clover extracts were used in studies for up to 2 years with apparent safety and appear well tolerated.
- PregnancyRed clover supplements may be unsafe in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- InteractionIf you take any medicine, check with your clinician first; some herbs and medicines interact in harmful ways.
- Ask a clinicianTalk with a clinician or pharmacist before using this if you take prescription medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are giving it to a child.
From the old books
What herbals and dispensaries of the past printed. History, in their words.
“Since then the remedy has come into extensive use, but the statement should be modified, as it does not reach all classes of cases.”
Sources
- Red Clover: Usefulness and Safety (opens in a new tab) · NCCIH · read September 25, 2026
Reviewed September 25, 2026.