Red clover has been used as traditional remedies by many cultures throughout history. Compounds of interest to biomedical research have recently been identified, having particular relevance to the way people live today:-
With women enjoying longer life expectancy, and working later in life, the role of isoflavones as a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one exciting area of research.
Amongst younger people, expenditure on lifestyle health supplements is growing, and the search for naturally-sourced nutraceuticals (such as d-pinitol) continues.
With a global epidemic of diabetes, anti-glycaemic substances to work with insulin to lower blood sugar are massively sought-after, and d-pinitol is one candidate.
There is also some research that suggests that these components of red clover may be beneficial in treatments of certain cancers, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Red clover blossoms contain salicylic acid (aspirin), and the resultant painkilling effect has been utilized in herbal remedies by many cultures.
Red clover extracts display blood thinning properties, and caution should be observed by anyone vulnerable to this effect.
Red clover contains components that are under research in each of these areas. The scientific evidence of product efficacy is contentious in many areas, however their consumption continues to increase globally every year. So how do we best grow, process and refine it to provide consistent, standardized and safe products? Will the process of biorefining provide insight into improving the products' benefits?
