Red clover is a multifaceted herb that has various important nutrients and minerals, which are key to its beneficial effects. Some of these essential compounds include vitamins A, B-12, C, E and K, as well as calcium, iron and magnesium (All 4 Natural Health, 2010). The main compounds that have been implicated in red clover’s valuable results are isoflavones (Terzic et al., 2009). Isoflavones are a type of phytoestrogen, which are chemicals substances produced in plants that have structural and functional similarity to the hormone estrogen (Terzic et al., 2009) There are four different isoflavones found in red clover: genistein, biochanin A, daidzein and formononetin (Terzic et al., 2009). These compounds have been implicated in the management of menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, cancer and cardiovascular health (MD idea, 2010.)
 |
Four isoflavones found in Red clover - Formononetin, Daidzien, Biochanin A and Genistein http://www.inner-natural.com/images/new1-z.jpg |
Depending on the particular condition needing treatment, red clover can be prepared in numerous ways including teas, ointments, liquid extracts and tablets. The main prescription for red clover, however, is in the form of a tablet containing a standardized 40 mg of extracted isoflavones, such as in the current Promensil tablets (Herbs for Menopause, 2010.)
 |
Promensil - treatment for menopause http://www.pulsepharmacy.com.au/images/products/613703m.jpg |
 |
Why take Promensil? http://www.healthchemist.co.nz/mm5/graphics/00000001/large_2_473707.jpg |
For more information on dosage recommendations and preparations of red clover please visit http://www.all4naturalhealth.com/red-clover-uses.html
So since isoflavones are the main active compounds in red clover, are all 4 types present in the same amounts and areas of the plant or are they found in different parts and/or concentrations in the red clover plant?
ReplyDeleteShaghayegh Donya Razavi, HMB434