At first I put off turning in the cover crop because it was a low priority. I'd turned in a quarter of it to plant garlic and still had all these empty beds to concern myself with. As the crop grew taller I stabbed at it occasionally, until it became too dense to turn back under the soil. Then when the clover flowers started appearing I had to leave the crop alone. Now I get to watch a beautiful display of Mammoth red clover flowers arising to maturity. Before I move out of here I will harvest a bunch.
Why bother? Years ago I harvested some flower heads understanding it to be a liver cleanser. Looking into research a bit more now I see red clover acts as a diuretic - blood cleanser/thinner - and expectorant - releasing mucous - so is useful for respiratory and skin issues. It is a source for calcium, potassium and vitamin C - as well as isoflavons (estrogen-like compounds). Traditionally red clover was used to aid menopause and treat osteoporosis. A flower for the ladies.
In HerbDigest over the last 24 hours I've seen posts about treating cancer with red clover. Could it be true? Not according to the
American Cancer Society. They published an article clearly pointing out there is mixed scientific evidence regarding the benefits of women regularly consuming phytoestrogens. Regardless I do wonder exactly I would put these flower heads to use given I'm not deadling with these health problems personally. Probably won't for some time either.
Read more:
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/red-clover-000270.htm#ixzz1uRrS9NZj
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