The Spirit of Red Clover

Red clover (Trifolium pratense)

Red clover carries symbolism rooted in folklore and spirituality. It's often linked with protection due to its three-leaf pattern, believed to ward off evil spirits. In cultural traditions, particularly Celtic, it signifies the sacred trinity.

Red Clover is a potent ‘alterative’, which means it alters the blood in some way.   Generally this means acting on the lymphatic system and liver to remove metabolic waste products. It may best be known as a blood purifier used for skin conditions, swollen lymph glands and liver detox. It is often used with other detoxifiers such as burdock and yellow dock. It can clear the body of toxins and excess heat, while it nourishes the blood. It is high in calcium, magnesium, chromium, potassium, thiamine, iron and Vit C and K. Science has found four isoflavones in red clover that may have anti-tumor properties.

Herbalist Jethro Kloss spoke highly of Red clover in his book Back to Eden, which he wrote in 1939.  “Red clover is one of God’s greatest blessings to man. Combined with equal parts of [lists several herbs] it is a most powerful remedy for cancerous growths.  Used alone it is excellent for cancer of the stomach, whooping cough, and various spasms. Learn to use this God-given remedy effectively.”

Red clover is also used for drippy, irritable, spasmodic coughs, including whooping cough, where there is a thin, clear secretion that causes irritation to the cough reflex.  Herbalist Matthew Wood suggests this secretion may result from an old accumulation of toxic material which has broken open. It has a strong action on the salivary glands in the back of the mouth.

Another common use of Red clover is to mitigate hot flashes during menopause.

In the chakra system, I see Red clover resonating with:

4^th chakra: blood flow and purification

5^th chakra: I recently read that Red clover helps with self expression, that it will unlock your emotions and help you speak your mind. 

6^th chakra: spiritual insights and intuition

WARNINGS:

Red clover may act like estrogen, which could affect hormone balances during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Do not take during these times.

Because Red clover contains coumarin and is a mild blood thinner, do not use with prescription blood thinners.

NOTES:

My intention in sharing my knowledge and personal experience is to ignite your curiosity and encourage you to create your own relationships with these amazing plant spirits.  I am not a medical professional. and make no claims for the medicinal actions of the herbs. Seek guidance from your healthcare professional if needed.

Have fun working with the herbs in this spirit-to-spirit way!

Photos by Nancy

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