Menopause is a challenging time for many women. Hot flashes and more become part of everyday life as hormones become unbalanced. Still, not many women opt for hormone replacement therapy. The side effects are simply too great. Phytoestrogens from medicinal plants like red clover offer an alternative. Learn about the connections between red clover, menopause, and phytoestrogens here.
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What is Red Clover?
Violet-red blossoms adorn many meadows in this country. If you look closer, you'll recognize it's red clover, also known as meadow clover. This type of clover is not only related to white clover but also to soy. These plants belong to the same botanical family of legumes.
Many myths and legends surround clover. Eve is said to have taken clover from paradise. The Celts used clover as a talisman, and to this day, clover is a national symbol in Ireland, and not without reason.
Uses of Red Clover
The plant has long been an integral part of agriculture. It is used for green manuring and as a protein-rich forage crop, and it is also an important flower for bees and thus for beekeepers. Additionally, red clover is an alternative to corn in biogas plants.
But clover can do even more: You might even have eaten a blossom yourself. Traditionally, red clover is also part of the diet. The blossoms taste slightly sweet and are an eye-catcher in salads. Occasionally, dried blossoms are also included in tea blends. In spring, you can use the young clover leaves for herb quark or in a salad. Their taste is similar to lamb's lettuce.
Red Clover in Natural Medicine
Hildegard von Bingen already reported on the healing effects of red clover. Since then, meadow clover has been used for sore throats, bleeding gums, discomfort, bronchitis, and women's ailments. Today, we know that the plant contains beneficial ingredients:
- Vitamins (Vitamin B1, Vitamin B3, Vitamin C)
- Minerals (Magnesium, Calcium, Potassium)
- Proteins
- Flavonoids such as isoflavones
- Phytohormones
- Essential oils
- Coumarins
- Glycosides
Red Clover: Menopause
Farmers are likely responsible for today's research on red clover in relation to hormones and menopause. They noticed fertility problems in animals that ate a lot of red clover. Subsequently, phytoestrogens were discovered in the plant and further investigated. You probably know the word phytoestrogens in connection with soy, because this legume also contains many of these plant compounds. Here, the familial relationship between red clover and other legumes like soy becomes interesting. And indeed, some of these compounds are present in both plants, but in different proportions. The main phytoestrogens in red clover are formononetin, biochanin A, daidzein, and genistein.
By the way, a healthy diet also helps your body get through menopause well. Pay attention to vitamins, minerals, and avoid large amounts of alcohol. In this magazine article, you can learn more about menopause:
Menopause and its symptoms – how to recognize perimenopause
The Effects of Phytoestrogens During Menopause
Menopausal symptoms arise from hormonal changes in the body. Gradually, less estrogen and progesterone are produced. Phytoestrogens are intended to balance this imbalance.
Phytoestrogens encompass a variety of secondary plant compounds, such as isoflavones. They have a similar structure to estrogen. Therefore, they can bind to the same receptors as the hormone. However, their effect is somewhat weaker. Compared to hormone replacement therapy, the weaker binding of phytoestrogens to the receptors is expected to result in fewer side effects.
Scientific Studies on Red Clover and Menopause
Through scientific research, not only are the ingredients of red clover known, but their effects are also being investigated. For example, a research team from Iran examined several studies on red clover extract in relation to hot flashes as a symptom of menopause. The result: red clover could reduce hot flashes, especially in severe symptoms. Other menopausal complaints were also alleviated. However, for the consumer association, the data on red clover and menopause are not yet sufficient to make a recommendation. This does not necessarily mean that red clover extract is ineffective, but rather that the data so far cannot reliably confirm an effect. Therefore, research on the medicinal plant continues, and more knowledge is constantly being gained.
What to Consider with Red Clover Capsules
If you want to use red clover, capsules with red clover extract are the easiest to use. We recommend consulting a doctor for menopausal symptoms. Together, you can discuss the pros and cons of hormone therapy and the use of herbal remedies such as red clover. Because phytoestrogens are also not without side effects and interactions. Medical advice is definitely advisable for your health. Every woman and every body is different, so there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Red clover is usually well tolerated if the dosage of 43.5 mg isoflavones per day, as stated by the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), is not exceeded. However, this dosage should be taken for a maximum of three months. Beyond that, the data situation is unclear.
Furthermore, there are some circumstances under which you should not take red clover. These include:
- Tumor diseases, especially hormone-dependent (breast) cancer
- Thyroid diseases
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Desire to conceive
- Hypersensitivity
For optimal effectiveness of red clover capsules, you should also pay attention to the quality of the capsules. Red clover extract can, for example, be combined with other medicinal plants such as chasteberry and minerals. Fillers and additives, however, do not belong in it. Also, pay attention to laboratory-tested quality.
With red clover & co to a natural hormone balance!
Conclusion: Red Clover, Effects & Menopause
Red clover is a native plant used in various areas. For women, its use for menopausal symptoms is particularly interesting, as hormone therapy is associated with many side effects. Red clover is believed to have a similar effect with fewer side effects due to the phytoestrogens it contains. However, the effects of red clover are not entirely without risks. Therefore, you should discuss its use with your treating physician.
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