Red Clover Benefits

Red clover, Mu, or trifolium pratense is seen growing in many areas of the north east (United States). It is a legume, much like bean and pea plants. It is originally from Asia, North Africa and Europe.

It is commonly used in Chinese Medicine as well as other traditions of herbalism. Some of its uses are to aid osteoporosis, arthritis, skin disorders, asthma, cancer and menopausal symptoms. Research on its efficacy is still limited. Though some studies show red clover improves certain conditions, there are also studies that show it had no effect. In general, studies have considered red clover to be well tolerated and safe because it has not caused any serious side effects, however, one should always check with their doctor before taking anything new and avoid taking this during nursing or pregnancy.

In menopause, there is a decline in estrogen levels which leads to an increase in bone turn over and bone density loss. Because red clover contains isoflavones which is known to mimc estrogen, research shows a connection between isoflavone intake and a decreased risk of osteoporosis. Some studies have shown that taking red clover extracts can reduce bone density loss.

The way red clover can mimic estrogen is also why it is known for its ability to reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. Research does show it has some effects on reducing hot flashes as well as depression, anxiety and vaginal dryness. Some who have taken red clover after menopause report improvements in skin and hair texture. There is also some research showing that red clover can reduce LDL and increase HDL in post menopausal women.

Red clover grows plentiful on my property so I love harvesting it along with other herbs that grow wild. Please take this information for educational purposes only. Do not take anything you might be allergic to or are unfamiliar with.

Written by Dr. Emily Siy, DACM 7/24/25, posted on 8/4/25

You might also be interested in reading: 5 (more) Chinese Herbs for Coughing, Your Guide to Castor Oil, Chinese Medicine for PCOS

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Sources:

Davidson, K. (2020, August 20). Red clover: Benefits, uses, and side effects. Healthline. Retrieved July 22, 2025, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/red-clover

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2025, April). Red clover: Usefulness and safety. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/red-clover