Red Clover Cut and Sifted for Herbal Tea

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) is a deeply nourishing and versatile herb known for its gentle detoxifying effects, hormone-balancing properties, and role in supporting skin, lungs, and lymphatic function. Though it often grows wild in meadows and roadsides, it has long been regarded as a sacred plant of vitality, cleansing, and renewal in herbal medicine traditions across the globe.

RED CLOVER (Trifolium pratense)

Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
Energetics: Cooling, moistening
Taste: Sweet, slightly earthy or green, mildly mineral-rich
Parts used: Blossoms (fresh or dried)

HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL BACKGROUND

Folk & Traditional Uses

• Europe: In traditional European herbalism, red clover was used as a “blood purifier”, often included in spring tonics to gently cleanse the liver, skin, and lymph after the winter months.

• British herbalists in the 19th century valued it as a remedy for skin eruptions, cancerous growths, and glandular swellings. It was used internally and externally for ulcers, eczema, and tumors.

• Celtic lore associated clover (particularly the three-leaved variety) with luck, protection, and connection to the divine. Red clover was also thought to attract fairies.

• North American Indigenous peoples used red clover for respiratory complaints, fevers, sore eyes, and as a topical wash for skin issues.

• The flower has long been used in women’s medicine, particularly for hormonal imbalances, fertility, and menopausal transitions.

HERBAL ACTIONS AND BENEFITS

Red clover is gentle yet powerful — a nutritive, cleansing, and balancing herb that works especially well over time.

1. Lymphatic and Blood Cleanser

• Supports detoxification through the lymphatic system, liver, and kidneys.

• Traditionally used to help with acne, boils, eczema, and psoriasis — especially when associated with internal heat or sluggish elimination.

• Helpful for swollen glands, sluggish circulation, and fluid retention.

2. Skin Support

• Red clover is a classic “alterative” — it helps the body process and eliminate waste that can appear as skin conditions.

• Used internally or as a wash for eczema, acne, rashes, and chronic skin issues.

• The combination of blood-cleansing and cooling actions makes it ideal for hot, inflamed skin disorders.

3. Respiratory Tonic

• Acts as a gentle expectorant — loosens mucus and soothes dry or spastic coughs.

• Helpful for bronchitis, whooping cough, and general lung support, especially in children or the elderly.

4. Hormonal and Menopausal Support

• Contains phytoestrogens (plant-based estrogen-like compounds), especially isoflavones, which may help:

  • Ease menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and dryness.

  • Support PMS, irregular cycles, and low estrogen states.

  • Gently promote hormonal balance without forcing the system.

• Often used in long-term reproductive wellness protocols.

5. Nutritive and Tonic

• High in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and vitamin C.

• Supports energy, recovery, and resilience in depleted or convalescing individuals.

RED CLOVER TEA: HOW TO USE IT

Red clover blossoms make a mild, slightly sweet tea that can be sipped on its own or blended with other supportive herbs. It's ideal for long-term, gentle detoxification or daily nourishment.

BASIC RED CLOVER TEA

Ingredients:

• 1 to 2 tsp dried red clover blossoms

• 1.5 to 2 cups hot water

Instructions:

1. Place dried blossoms in a mug or teapot.

2. Pour hot (just-boiled) water over the herbs.

3. Cover and steep for 10–15 minutes.

4. Strain and enjoy. May be sweetened with honey or paired with lemon.

Dose: 1–3 cups per day for 2–4 weeks or more, depending on need.

TEA BLEND SUGGESTIONS

1. Lymph & Skin Detox Tea

For chronic or inflammatory skin conditions, swollen lymph nodes, or spring cleansing

• 1 tsp red clover

• 1 tsp cleavers (lymphatic drainage)

• 1/2 tsp burdock root (blood purifier)

• 1/2 tsp nettle leaf (minerals and support)

Use for several weeks during seasonal transitions or as a skin-cleansing protocol.

2. Hormone Balance & Menopause Support Tea

Gently supports estrogen balance and eases hot flashes or PMS

• 1 tsp red clover

• 1 tsp raspberry leaf (uterine tonic)

• 1/2 tsp sage (cooling for hot flashes)

• 1/2 tsp lemon balm (calming to mood and nervous system)

Drink daily for hormonal balance or cycle regulation.

3. Respiratory Support Tea

For dry or irritated lungs, post-infection recovery, or mild bronchitis

• 1 tsp red clover

• 1/2 tsp mullein leaf (lung tissue support)

• 1/2 tsp licorice root (demulcent and antiviral)

• 1/2 tsp peppermint (clearing and cooling)

Can be taken warm throughout the day, especially during cold or allergy season.

ENERGETICS & HERBAL ACTIONS

• Temperature: Cooling

• Moisture: Slightly moistening

• Primary Actions: Alterative (blood purifier), lymphatic, antispasmodic, expectorant, phytoestrogenic, nutritive

• Systems Affected: Lymphatic, skin, reproductive, respiratory, liver

SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS

• Generally safe for long-term use.

• Use caution in individuals on blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), as red clover may mildly affect clotting.

• Those with estrogen-sensitive cancers should consult an herbalist or physician before use.

• Not typically used during pregnancy due to phytoestrogens, though small amounts in food or gentle blends may be acceptable.

SUMMARY

Red clover is a gentle but deeply effective alterative, nutritive, and hormonal herb. It brings vitality and renewal to the skin, lymphatic system, and hormonal landscape. Whether used as a daily nourishing tea, a cleansing spring tonic, or a women’s wellness support, red clover earns its place in any home apothecary.