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Red Clover Aerial Extract

Also known as: Red clover, cow grass, pink clover, Trifolium pratense

Overview

Red clover (*Trifolium pratense*) is a perennial legume native to Europe, Western Asia, and northwest Africa, widely utilized as a dietary supplement. Its primary active compounds are isoflavones, which are plant-derived compounds structurally similar to estrogen. These isoflavones are believed to exert estrogenic effects in the body, making red clover a popular choice for alleviating menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes. Additionally, there is emerging research suggesting its potential benefits for cardiovascular health, including improvements in arterial compliance. While the research on red clover's efficacy for menopausal symptoms is moderate, with some studies showing positive results, the overall quality of evidence varies, and some conflicting findings exist. It is commonly available in various forms, including capsules and teas, and is generally considered safe for most users, though caution is advised due to potential drug interactions and contraindications in specific populations.

Benefits

Red clover is primarily recognized for its ability to alleviate menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes. A meta-analysis of eight trials demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in hot flashes among postmenopausal women supplementing with red clover isoflavones, showing a weighted mean difference of -1.73 hot flashes per day compared to placebo. This suggests a moderate but clinically relevant effect size for hot flash reduction. Beyond menopausal relief, there is some evidence indicating potential secondary benefits, such as improvements in arterial compliance, which could contribute to cardiovascular health. Some research also points towards neuroprotective effects and anti-inflammatory activities, possibly mediated through PPARalpha stimulation. The benefits are most pronounced for postmenopausal women experiencing hot flashes, with effects typically observed within several weeks to months of consistent supplementation. However, the consistency of evidence across all studies for these secondary benefits is not as strong as for hot flash reduction, and further research is needed to confirm these findings.

How it works

Red clover's therapeutic effects are primarily attributed to its isoflavone content, which includes compounds like biochanin A. These isoflavones act as phytoestrogens, meaning they can bind to estrogen receptors in the body, mimicking some of the effects of endogenous estrogen. This estrogenic activity is believed to be responsible for alleviating menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, by influencing hormone-sensitive tissues. Biochanin A, specifically, has been shown to inhibit aromatase activity, an enzyme involved in estrogen synthesis. Furthermore, red clover isoflavones may interact with other biological pathways, such as stimulating PPARalpha, which could contribute to its potential anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits by improving arterial compliance. The absorption and bioavailability of red clover isoflavones can vary, with some evidence suggesting that methylated forms may be better absorbed.

Side effects

Red clover is generally considered safe for most individuals, but certain precautions and potential side effects should be noted. Common side effects are not well-documented but may include mild gastrointestinal upset. More serious, though uncommon, side effects include an increased risk of bleeding, especially when red clover is combined with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. Rare case reports have also indicated severe adverse effects, such as subarachnoid hemorrhage, although these are extremely infrequent. Red clover may interact with drugs metabolized by CYP enzymes, potentially altering their efficacy or increasing their side effects. A significant contraindication is for individuals with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, as the estrogenic activity of red clover could theoretically stimulate cancer cell growth. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid red clover or consult a healthcare provider before use due to insufficient safety data. Overall, while generally well-tolerated, its use requires caution in individuals on specific medications or with hormone-sensitive conditions.

Dosage

The typical minimum effective dose for red clover isoflavones is around 40-80 mg per day. An optimal dosage range, frequently used in research studies, is 80 mg of total isoflavones daily. The maximum safe dose is not well-established, as doses exceeding 80 mg per day have been less extensively studied. For consistent benefits, daily intake is recommended. Red clover is available in various forms, including capsules and teas, and the specific form may influence absorption. Individual absorption of isoflavones can vary, which might affect the perceived efficacy. There are no specific cofactors identified as necessary for its absorption or activity. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare professional, especially when considering higher doses or if there are underlying health conditions or concurrent medication use.

FAQs

Can red clover be taken with other medications?

Red clover may interact with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and drugs metabolized by CYP enzymes. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining red clover with any medications to avoid potential adverse interactions.

Is red clover safe for everyone?

While generally safe, red clover is contraindicated for individuals with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer due to its estrogenic effects. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid its use without medical advice.

How long does it take to see benefits from red clover?

Benefits, particularly the reduction of hot flashes, may become noticeable within several weeks to a few months of consistent daily supplementation. Individual responses can vary.

Does red clover have anti-cancer properties?

Red clover is not proven to have anti-cancer effects and should not be used as a substitute for medical cancer treatment. In fact, it is contraindicated in certain hormone-sensitive cancers.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33920485/ – This meta-analysis of eight trials investigated the effect of red clover isoflavones on hot flashes in postmenopausal women. It found a statistically significant reduction in hot flashes, with a weighted mean difference of -1.73 hot flashes per day, suggesting a moderate benefit for menopausal symptom relief.
https://ascopost.com/issues/august-15-2014/red-clover/ – This systematic review discusses the use of red clover isoflavones for menopausal symptoms. It notes that while some studies show alleviation of symptoms, the evidence is not consistently strong across all studies, highlighting the need for more robust research.
https://examine.com/supplements/red-clover-extract/research/ – This source provides a comprehensive overview of red clover extract research, including its mechanism of action, absorption variability, and potential interactions. It highlights that biochanin A, a component of red clover, inhibits aromatase activity.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20142789/ – This study investigated the effects of red clover extract on PPARalpha activation. It found that red clover extract possesses potential anti-inflammatory and PPARalpha stimulatory activities, suggesting benefits for cardiovascular health.