The short answer
- For hot flashes and night sweats: not proven
- Results across trials are inconsistent and some trials had a high risk of bias. Cochrane found no sign that red clover works better than no treatment.
- For cholesterol and bone density: not proven
- Findings on cholesterol conflict, and only a few small studies have looked at bone density.
What it is
A flowering plant that contains isoflavones, substances with a shape similar to estrogen. The same family of substances is found in soy and alfalfa.
What the studies say
- A Cochrane review found 43 randomized trials in 4,084 women. Some trials reported a slight reduction in hot flashes and night sweats.
- Extracts high in genistein, which comes from soy rather than red clover, looked more promising and were flagged for more research.
- Overall, Cochrane found no sign that other phytoestrogens worked better than no treatment. Many trials were small, short and of poor quality.
- NCCIH says studies of red clover for hot flashes have had inconsistent results, and some had a high risk of bias.
- NICE says people can be told there is some evidence that isoflavones may relieve hot flashes, while preparations vary and their safety is uncertain.
- Cochrane found no evidence of harm to the womb lining or other short term harms in those trials.
What a label is allowed to say
No approved claim. Claims for plant extracts like this one are on hold in the UK, which means there is no agreed wording a label can rely on.
In the US the rules are looser. A label may say how a nutrient supports the body if the company holds evidence for it. The FDA does not check the claim first, which is why US labels carry the line saying the FDA has not evaluated it.
Safety
- Red clover extracts have been used in studies for up to 2 years and appeared to be well tolerated.
- It may not be safe in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Because isoflavones act a little like estrogen, anyone with a hormone sensitive cancer needs a doctor's view before taking it.
- Herbal products are not regulated like medicines, so strength and purity vary between brands.
Ask your doctor first if
- You have had breast, womb or ovarian cancer, or are at high risk.
- You take tamoxifen, an aromatase inhibitor or any hormone treatment.
- You take blood thinning medicine.
This is general information, not medical advice. Check with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you take medication.