(NaturalNews) Red Clover (Trifolium Pratense) is a plant which is native to Europe as well as parts of Northwest Africa and Western Asia. The flower of this plant is the most commonly used part. Because of isoflavones that it contains, Red Clover has been used for many years as a remedy for menopausal symptoms including mood swings and hot flushes. This makes it a natural alternative to traditional hormone replacement therapy.
Health benefits associated with Red Clover are numerous. It is an excellent expectorant, which makes it useful in treating conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. These flowers also possess diuretic and sedative properties. It has also been reported to be an excellent detoxing agent for the body. It has been used as an all-natural anti-inflammatory for many years.
People suffering from osteoporosis may benefit from using Red Clover because of the fact that the isoflavones in it act as phytoestrogens, which could be beneficial in helping to build bone density. It is also able to improve circulation, increase good cholesterol levels in the body and strengthen the arteries. It is an excellent blood and liver purifier.
Red Clover contains a host of nutrients, among them include Vitamin K, Vitamin C, thiamine, magnesium, Vitamin E, calcium, chromium, potassium, Vitamin A, phosphorus and niacin. All of these nutrients assist with its ability to heal and soothe conditions such as eczema, asthma, lymphatic swelling, psoriasis, acne, coughs and colds. It is often given in syrup form to those suffering from whooping cough. It aids with healing infections and also helps to relieve flatulence. It promotes prostate health and stimulates the production of bile and digestive enzymes, thus helping to improve digestion.
Red Clover is also said to be highly beneficial in the fight against both breast and prostate cancers. Poultices made from the Red Clover flowers are sometimes used on cancer which is externally visible on the body. This flower is also one of the most common herbal treatments used to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy or BPH, as it is commonly referred to as (a condition which displays
symptoms similar to those of prostate cancer).
Red Clover is available in many forms, including capsules, teas, dried extracts, liquid extracts, tablets and ointments which are used for topical or external use.
Sources:
http://www.all4naturalhealth.com/benefits-of-red-clover.htmlhttp://www.chinese-herbs.org/red-clover/http://www.healtharticles101.com/top-10-health-benefits-of-red-clover...http://prostatecancer.about.com/od/prostatecancer101/a/bphbasics.htmAbout the author
Shona Botes blogs about green living, budgeting, saving money, natural remedies and humour (which is often combined with the abovementioned topics). Her spare time is spent tending to her organic herb garden, cycling and engaging in photography.
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