Last verified: 17 days ago
Red Clover Leaf Extract
Also known as: Trifolium pratense, red clover isoflavones, biochanin A, formononetin, daidzein, genistein
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Plant-based source of isoflavones; traditionally used for menopause symptoms, but clinical evidence is limited.
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What it does
Red clover is a flowering plant whose leaves and blossoms contain isoflavones — plant compounds that weakly mimic estrogen in the body. It is most commonly used to ease menopause symptoms like hot...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
40-160 mg isoflavones daily (traditional/general use range; no confirmed clinical dose from provided studies)
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Found in
What the Science Says
Red clover is a flowering plant whose leaves and blossoms contain isoflavones — plant compounds that weakly mimic estrogen in the body. It is most commonly used to ease menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, and has traditional use for bone health and cardiovascular support in postmenopausal women. No clinical trial data was available for this review, so the strength of these effects in humans remains uncertain.
What It Doesn't Do
Not a proven hormone replacement therapy. Won't reliably eliminate hot flashes for everyone. No solid evidence it prevents osteoporosis on its own. Not a cancer treatment. Don't expect it to balance hormones in the way prescription medications do.
Evidence-Based Benefits
May reduce hot flash frequency and severity in menopausal women.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 40-160 mg isoflavones daily
Isoflavones may help slow bone density loss in postmenopausal women.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Absorption & Bioavailability
Moderate — isoflavones from red clover are converted by gut bacteria into active forms; absorption varies significantly between individuals depending on gut microbiome composition.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Contains phytoestrogens that may interact with hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, or endometriosis — consult a doctor before use
- May interact with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) due to coumarin-like compounds in the plant
- Hormone-active compounds may interfere with oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
- Quality and isoflavone content vary widely between products — look for standardized extracts with stated isoflavone percentages
- Limited published research available — most marketing claims outpace the actual clinical evidence
Products Containing Red Clover Leaf Extract
See how Red Clover Leaf Extract is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Red Clover Leaf Extract do?
Plant-based source of isoflavones; traditionally used for menopause symptoms, but clinical evidence is limited.
What is the effective dose of Red Clover Leaf Extract?
40-160 mg isoflavones daily (traditional/general use range; no confirmed clinical dose from provided studies)
Is Red Clover Leaf Extract safe?
Contains phytoestrogens that may interact with hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, or endometriosis — consult a doctor before use
What doesn't Red Clover Leaf Extract do?
Not a proven hormone replacement therapy.
Research Sources
- General knowledge — no paper abstracts were provided for this ingredient. All claims reflect traditional use and general scientific background, not confirmed clinical trial data.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25