Red Clover: Effect and Side Effects and Side Effects

Not long ago, the previously unknown effect of red clover (also known as meadow clover or Trifolium pratense) was discovered. As children, we looked for the lucky four-leaf clover, but what is the health effect of red clover? In recent years, red clover capsules and red clover tea have enjoyed growing attention as red clover has been touted as an herbal alternative to hormone replacement therapy for women going through menopause. Because the female body produces fewer hormones after the age of about 50, many women suffer from hormonal changes when menopause begins.

Red clover as capsules or tea

To alleviate the typical symptoms of menopause, doctors prescribed hormone preparations since the 60s, but they fell more and more into disrepute: The side effects were higher than the benefits. Red clover, like soy, contains the secondary plant compounds isoflavones (also isoflavonoids), which have a close structural resemblance to the chemical composition of estrogen. Since estrogen production is continuously reduced during menopause, many women resorted to highly concentrated red clover capsules or frequently drank red clover tea.

Menopause: red clover for estrogen deficiency.

Red clover is easier to tolerate than soy, most scientists agree. But why actually? Was not soy considered an insider tip during menopause? Didn’t numerous studies show that Japanese women suffered much less from sweating, hot flashes, depressive moods and sleep disorders than European or American women? Yes, but soy must be taken in large quantities and with protein to achieve the desired effect. The isoflavones in red clover, however, are bound to glucose, which makes red clover far more digestible. In addition, red clover contains four of the five isoflavones that have a hormone-like effect, whereas only two of these isoflavones are found in soy. In addition, red clover has been attributed a positive effect on the liver, cardiovascular system and bones. But that’s not all: skin density is also said to benefit from red clover, protecting cells from radiation, aging and wrinkles. The effect of red clover would thus not only have proven itself during menopause; the butterfly flower plant, which is also popularly known as honey clover or carrot, would actually have the potential to become an anti-aging all-rounder without side effects. But is that really the case?

Red clover: side effects controversial

Because isoflavones are natural substances, red clover was considered to be free of side effects. But gradually, more and more contrary voices are being raised among researchers. Thus, experts now advise caution when taking red clover, even during menopause: in this phase of life, the risk of breast cancer increases. But is not straight again and again the positive effect of Rotklee on cells destroyed by cancer of the breast propagated? Yes, but studies by the University of Karlsruhe have shown that the isoflavone genistein, which is contained in soy in a highly concentrated form, interferes with cell division and may cause cancer or promote breast cancer. However, the isoflavone genistein is present in red clover only in a very small form; here, the isoflavones biochanin A and formononetin are much more highly concentrated. Although warnings are usually directed against secondary plant compounds in general or soy in particular, the exact effects and side effects of red clover have not yet been sufficiently researched to draw a definitive conclusion.

Red clover: effects and concentration

For now, the German Federal Office for Risk Assessment advises against taking it in highly concentrated form, such as red clover capsules, because research is still insufficient. Does this make red clover tea less dangerous? At least the concentration of the active ingredients is usually lower, but this also reduces the positive effect on the symptoms of menopause. It should be noted that preparations such as red clover tea or red clover capsules are not drugs in the strict sense of the word and are therefore subject to less stringent control rules. Also, some of the side effects of red clover capsules or red clover tea may be allergic reactions. Those who suffer from very severe symptoms during menopause will not get sufficient relief by taking red clover capsules. If menopause causes only mild discomfort, red clover can certainly be used to combat it.However, the side effects are always to be weighed with all red clover preparations and best discussed with the doctor. The next few years will bring more knowledge thanks to research.