Sunday, March 16, 2014

Clover a Medicinal Herb


Clover is a perennial herb that grows wild throughout Europe and Asia, and was naturalized to grow in North America. It has many medicinal properties and it is also very easy to find and harvest. It is also a great detoxifier. The red clover species vary in size. They grow from 20 to 80 cm in height and have several stems from one root. The flowers are white, dark pink or reddish purple.

 



Medicinal Uses:

Red clover is a source of many nutrients including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, vitamin C. and rich sources of isoflavones. It has been used to treat or help with: cancer, whooping cough, respiratory problems, asthma and bronchitis (because it is an expectorant), an antispasmodic, a diuretic, it cleanses the liver and the blood, and helps with cardiovascular health by lowering cholesterol levels. It is also used to treat: psoriasis and eczema, acne, colds, digestion, flatulence, infections, infertility, lymphatic swelling, piles, helps relieve menopausal symptoms, prostate health, and sore throats. There a variety of preparations for red clover such as; tinctures, teas, dried extracts, capsules, tablets, liquid extract, and ointments for topical applications. Red Clover Tea is typically made by adding 1 tablespoon of dried or fresh clover flowers to a cup of hot water. It is recommended to be taken three times a day.


Basic Red Clove Tea

 

1 cup dried red clover blossoms 2 tablespoons mint 4 cups water honey to sweeten Pour hot boiling water over red clover blossoms and dandelion leaves. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes, strain and sweeten to taste.
 

Medicinal Tincture

½ to 1 cup of dried red clover is put into a 1 quart mason jar. Pour 1 quart of boiled water in  over the herbs until it fills to the top of the jar. Put a lid on the jar and Let steep at least 8 hours or overnight. Strain as needed, leaving the herbs in the infusion to continue steeping until all the tea is gone.