Trifolium pratense, commonly known as red clover, is a perennial that has been an integral part of agricultural systems worldwide for centuries.
Trifolium pratense is characterized by its distinct trifoliate leaves, each leaflet containing a white crescent marking. Red clover is a creeping perennial with a taproot system that can grow up to 50 cm in depth1. The plant’s flowers are typically pinkish-purple in colour and arranged in dense, spherical clusters2.
Habitat & cultivation
Red clover is native to Europe, western Asia, and northwest Africa, and has been introduced to many other regions. It thrives in meadows, pastures, and disturbed areas with well-drained, fertile soils3. The plant is cultivated extensively as a forage crop, cover crop, and green manure, particularly in North America, New Zealand, and Northern Europe2.
Nitrogen fixation & soil improvement
An important attribute of red clover is its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen through a symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium bacteria. This nitrogen fixation process was first discovered in the late 19th century3. Legume cover crops like red clover can contribute significant amounts of nitrogen to the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Additionally, red clover improves soil structure and water-holding capacity, which can enhance the effectiveness of applied nitrogen fertilizer4.
Use for medicinal purposes
Beyond its agricultural applications, T. pratense has a long history of medicinal use. The flowers and aerial parts of the plant have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory issues, skin conditions, and menopausal symptoms. The plant is rich in isoflavones, which have been associated with potential health benefits1.
Traditional medicinal uses
In traditional medicine, red clover has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. The flowers are often used to make teas, tinctures, and extracts that are believed to have therapeutic properties. The plant has been used to alleviate respiratory problems, such as bronchitis and asthma, as well as skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
Constituents
- isoflavones
- coumarins
- alkaloids
- saponins
- organic acids
Action and application
Numerous studies have investigated the potential health benefits of red clover. The isoflavones present in the plant, such as genistein and daidzein, have been the focus of much research due to their estrogen-like effects and potential to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Red clover has also been studied for its potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and certain types of cancer5. However, the clinical evidence for these potential benefits remains mixed, and more research is needed to establish the efficacy and safety of red clover-based interventions.
TAXONOMY
KINGDOM: Plantae
ORDER: Fabales
FAMILY: Fabaceae
GENUS: Trifolium
SPECIES: Trifolium pratense
COMMON NAME: Red clover, purple clover, purple glover, peavine glover
FLOWERING TIME: V-IX month
References:
- Tundis, R., Marrelli, M., Conforti, F., Tenuta, M C., Bonesi, M., Menichini, F., & Loizzo, M R. (2015, August 21). Trifolium pratense and T. repens (Leguminosae): Edible Flower Extracts as Functional Ingredients. Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 4(4), 338-348. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods4030338
- Frame, J., & Newbould, P. (1986, January 1). Agronomy of White Clover. Elsevier BV, 1-88. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0065-2113(08)60280-1
- Burton, G W. (2015, October 26). Legume Nitrogen Versus Fertilizer Nitrogen for Warm-Season Grasses. , 55-72. https://doi.org/10.2134/asaspecpub28.c3
- Lu, Y., Watkins, K B., Teasdale, J R., & Abdul‐Baki, A A. (2000, May 15). COVER CROPS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION. Taylor & Francis, 16(2), 121-157. https://doi.org/10.1081/fri-100100285
- Piersen, C E., Booth, N L., Sun, Y., Liang, W., Burdette, J., Breemen, R B V., Geller, S E., Gu, C., Banuvar, S., Shulman, L., Bolton, J L., & Farnsworth, N. (2004, June 1). Chemical and Biological Characterization and Clinical Evaluation of Botanical Dietary Supplements: A Phase I Red Clover Extract as a Model. Bentham Science Publishers, 11(11), 1361-1374. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867043365134
