The Benefits of Clover: More Than a Lucky Leaf

By Carolyn Serrano, Clinical Herbalist & Holistic Nutritionist

When most people think of clover, they picture lucky four-leaf sprigs or a carpet of green across a meadow. But as a clinical herbalist and holistic nutritionist, I see clover as much more than a symbol of good fortune—it’s a powerful plant medicine with centuries of traditional use and growing scientific support.

Let’s explore the unique benefits of three key types of clover: Red Clover (Trifolium pratense), White Clover (Trifolium repens), and Crimson Clover (Trifolium incarnatum).

Red Clover: Hormone Harmony & Detox Support

Red clover is perhaps the best-known medicinal clover. Traditionally used to support women's health, it’s rich in isoflavones—plant compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. These can be helpful for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, particularly in women with low estrogen levels.

A 2013 review in PLOS ONE found red clover extract significantly reduced the frequency and severity of hot flashes in menopausal women:https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0078236

Red clover also supports lymphatic drainage and detoxification, making it a popular herb in skin-clearing protocols for acne and eczema. Its mildly bitter nature also aids in liver function and digestion.

White Clover: Gentle & Anti-inflammatory

Though less commonly used in modern herbalism, white clover was historically valued by Native American tribes for fever reduction and respiratory relief. It contains salicylic acid derivatives and flavonoids, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

According to the Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chevallier, white clover infusions were used for coughs, colds, and as a gentle blood cleanser.

While not as potent as red clover, white clover is a nutritive herb, providing trace minerals, vitamin C, and antioxidants when consumed as a tea or wild green in moderation.(Chevallier, A. Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine, DK Publishing)

Crimson Clover: Soil Healer, Heart Helper

Often used as a cover crop, crimson clover also holds nutritional and medicinal value. While it’s not as commonly found in clinical herbal formulas, its flowers contain polyphenols that may support cardiovascular health through antioxidant effects.

Crimson clover is also high in plant-based protein and can be consumed as a sprout or forage plant. In herbal nutrition, it’s sometimes included in blends to support heart health and overall vitality, though more research is needed to clarify its specific therapeutic actions.

A 2020 article in Molecules noted that Trifolium species (including crimson clover) show potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to their flavonoid content:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7356713/

Final Thoughts

As with any herb, clover should be chosen based on individual needs and used with guidance—especially if you're taking medications or have hormone-sensitive conditions. That said, clover’s gentle nature makes it a beautiful example of food-as-medicine, supporting the body in subtle yet profound ways.

If you're interested in exploring clover therapeutically, I recommend working with a trained clinical herbalist (like myself!) to determine the right form, dosage, and combination for your goals.

Want to dive deeper into herbal remedies or holistic nutrition? Book a session with me at www.carolynserrano.com and let's create your custom wellness plan.