Red Clover and Cancer

Based on its traditional use for cancer, researchers have begun to study isoflavones from red-clover, and there is preliminary evidence that they may prevent the growth of cancer cells or kill cancer cells in test tubes. However, given the herb's estrogen-like effects, it might also contribute to the growth of some cancers, just as estrogen does.

Because red-clover contains estrogen-like compounds known as phytoestrogens, there is a possibility that its long-term use would increase the risk of women developing cancer of the lining of the uterus. Conversely, phytoestrogens may be responsible for the absence of cancer in people who eat a plant-based diet, because these plant-based estrogens lock on to certain cells, preventing the "real" human estrogens from over stimulating the body.

Red clover may alter the effects of any drugs containing hormones or derivatives of hormones like birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy, as well as the levels of natural hormones in the body.

It is unclear whether red-clover is safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who have breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers. Studies looking at the extract's effectiveness against prostate enlargement and prostate cancer have begun.

Current uses of red-clover are for menopausal symptoms (both early and peri-), breast pain associated with menstrual cycles, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and symptoms of prostate enlargement. The flowering tops of the red-clover plant are used to prepare extracts available in tablets and capsules, as well as in teas and liquid forms.

Isoflavones, Menopause and Osteoporosis

Isoflavones from red-clover significantly reduce menopausal hot flush symptoms compared with placebo. Isoflavones from red clover improve systemic arterial compliance but not plasma lipids in menopausal women. Isoflavones are plant compounds, found commonly in soy, that act like a weak form of the female sex hormone estrogen.

Some of its extracts, the isoflavonones, are being tested to find out if they help symptoms of menopause and reduce the level of bad cholesterol in the blood. Isoflavones have shown potential in the treatment of a number of conditions associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, cardiovascular health, and osteoporosis.

There is not enough reliable scientific evidence to recommend red clover for osteoporosis. It is not clear if red-clover isoflavones have beneficial effects on bone density. Menopause increases a woman's risk for developing osteoporosis (significant bone loss). Taking red-clover has been shown to help delay osteoporosis in women who have not yet reached menopause.