Omnia SanaPlant Comparison
Saffron vs Red Clover
A side-by-side comparison of two medicinal plants — every documented constituent, action, use, safety note and cited source, assembled automatically from the Omnia Sana database.
First plant
Second plant
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At a glance
Saffron and Red Clover: they share 7 indicated uses (arthritis / joint pain, blood sugar / diabetes support, cancer (anticancer research), …); 5 pharmacological actions in common.
SaffronRed Clover
Constituents32
Pharmacological actions610
Indicated uses1016
Safety notes22
Cited sources2644
Indicated uses
Only Saffron
Insomnia / sleeplessnessMemoryMetabolic support
Shared (7)
Arthritis / joint painBlood sugar / diabetes supportCancer (anticancer research)Cognitive functionInflammation (general)Menstrual crampsSkin irritation
Only Red Clover
BronchitisCardiovascular / heart healthCoughMuscle spasmRespiratory supportMenopauseHot flashesHigh cholesterolWounds
Pharmacological actions
Only Saffron
Sedative / sleep support
Shared (5)
Anti-inflammatoryAnticancer (preclinical)Antidiabetic (blood-sugar lowering)AntioxidantNeuroprotective / cognition support
Only Red Clover
AntispasmodicExpectorantLipid-loweringAntimicrobialVulnerary (wound healing)
Evidence face-off — shared uses
| Condition | Saffron | Red Clover | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arthritis / joint pain | 1/10 | 5/10 | Stronger for Red Clover |
| Blood sugar / diabetes support | 1/10 | 2/10 | Comparable evidence |
| Cancer (anticancer research) | 8/10 | 7/10 | Comparable evidence |
| Cognitive function | 1/10 | 8/10 | Stronger for Red Clover |
| Inflammation (general) | 1/10 | 5/10 | Stronger for Red Clover |
| Menstrual cramps | 1/10 | 5/10 | Stronger for Red Clover |
| Skin irritation | 1/10 | 5/10 | Stronger for Red Clover |
Evidence scores (1–10) are computed from the tier of each cited source. “Comparable” means the two scores are within one point. Follow a score to its detailed sources.
Key Constituents
Crocin and crocetin[1]
Water-soluble carotenoid glycosides responsible for saffron's deep golden-red colour and much of its antioxidant and mood-related activity.
CrocinCrocetin
Safranal[1]
The principal volatile aromatic compound, giving saffron its characteristic scent and contributing to its sedative and antidepressant activity.
Safranal
Picrocrocin
The main bitter-tasting glycoside of the stigma, a precursor of safranal.
Picrocrocin
Isoflavones (formononetin, biochanin A, daidzein, genistein)[14]
Phytoestrogenic isoflavones responsible for the plant's estrogenic and cardiovascular research interest; one of the richest known plant sources.
Flavonoids
Coumarins[40]
Contribute mild anticoagulant activity; relevant to the plant's caution around blood-thinning medication.
Coumarins
Pharmacological Actions
Traditional & Indicated Uses
inferred from anti-inflammatory action
Evidence: 1
Label: Arthritis / joint pain
inferred from antidiabetic action
Evidence: 1
Label: Blood sugar / diabetes support
inferred from anticancer action
Evidence: 8
Label: Cancer (anticancer research)
inferred from neuroprotective action
Evidence: 1
Label: Cognitive function
inferred from anti-inflammatory action
Evidence: 1
Label: Inflammation (general)
inferred from sedative action
Evidence: 1
Label: Insomnia / sleeplessness
inferred from antidiabetic action
Evidence: 1
Label: Metabolic support
inferred from anti-inflammatory action
Evidence: 5
Label: Arthritis / joint pain
Evidence: 9
Label: Cardiovascular / heart health
inferred from anti-inflammatory action
Evidence: 5
Label: Inflammation (general)
inferred from antispasmodic action
Evidence: 5
Label: Muscle spasm
inferred from expectorant action
Evidence: 5
Label: Respiratory support
inferred from anti-inflammatory action
Evidence: 5
Label: Skin irritation
inferred from anticancer action
Evidence: 7
Label: Cancer (anticancer research)
Evidence: 2
Label: Blood sugar / diabetes support
inferred from neuroprotective action
Evidence: 8
Label: Cognitive function
Safety, Cautions & Contraindications
Culinary use is entirely safe. At very high doses (5g+), saffron can be toxic — but such doses far exceed culinary or therapeutic amounts. Avoid medicinal doses during pregnancy (uterine stimulant). May interact with antidepressants. High quality saffron is often adulterated; verify source.
Duke (2002) rates saffron as ++ and provides a critical safety warning: abortifacient activity has clinical support (score 2), meaning that medicinal doses can induce abortion — saffron is strictly contraindicated in pregnancy at doses above culinary amounts. The plant also shows antidepressant, antioxidant, and antitumor activities at the experimental level (score 1). Dose (culinary): 0.5 g stigmas as flavoring; medicinal doses above 5 g are considered potentially toxic. Duke notes that saffron stigmas contain crocin and safranal, which are responsible for its antidepressant and antioxidant properties (Duke, 2002).
Generally safe in normal dietary amounts. Isoflavones are phytoestrogens — exercise caution in oestrogen-receptor-positive breast cancer patients or those taking hormone therapies. May interact with warfarin (antiplatelet activity). Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Well tolerated in most adults.
Duke (2002) rates red clover as +++ and provides clinical evidence (score 2) for estrogenic activity — the plant is one of the richest plant sources of isoflavones (formononetin, biochanin A, daidzein, genistein). Clinical applications include menopausal symptom relief, osteoporosis prevention, and cardiovascular protection in peri-menopausal women. Dose: standardized extract providing 40–160 mg isoflavones daily. Duke cautions that due to strong estrogenic activity, red clover is not recommended in estrogen-dependent cancers (breast, uterine) or alongside hormone replacement therapy without medical supervision. Anti-coagulant coumarins are also present (Duke, 2002).
External Ids
Gbif: 2747430
Powo: urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:436688-1
Wikidata: Q15041677
Gbif: 8324121
Wikidata: Q156635
Botanical Description
Small, cormous perennial with narrow, grass-like, dark green leaves emerging with or just after the flowers. Each flower is a delicate lilac-purple, six-petalled bloom with three golden-yellow anthers and a single style dividing into three long, deep-red, thread-like stigmas - the saffron of commerce. The plant is a sterile triploid that never sets seed and is propagated entirely by division of its underground corms.
Height: 10-20 cm
Habit: Small, cormous, autumn-flowering perennial
Leaves: Narrow, grass-like, dark green, emerging with or just after the flowers
Flowers: Lilac-purple, six-petalled, with three golden anthers and three long deep-red stigma threads
Stem: Very short; flowers arise almost directly from the corm
Root: Underground corm with fibrous roots
Fruit: Sterile triploid; does not set seed, propagated by corm division
Flowering Period: Autumn (October-November)
Short-lived perennial herb with trifoliate leaves, each leaflet oval and often marked with a pale chevron, arising from a spreading, slightly hairy stem. Dense, rounded, pink to magenta flower heads are borne at the stem tips.[40]
Height: 20-60 cm
Habit: Short-lived perennial herb, spreading via a branching taproot
Leaves: Trifoliate, each leaflet oval with a pale chevron marking, slightly hairy
Flowers: Dense, rounded heads of small pink to magenta pea-like flowers
Stem: Slightly hairy, branching, spreading
Root: Branching taproot with nitrogen-fixing root nodules
Fruit: Small pod containing 1-2 seeds, enclosed within the dried flower head
Flowering Period: May-September
Habitat
Believed to have originated in Greece or Crete and spread through cultivation across the Mediterranean, Middle East and Asia (notably Iran, Kashmir and Spain); grown in sunny, well-drained fields with hot, dry summers and cool, wet autumns/winters.
Grows in meadows, pastures, roadsides and grassy waste ground; native to Europe, western Asia and North Africa and widely naturalised and cultivated as a forage crop elsewhere.[40]
Harvesting
The flowers are hand-picked at dawn as they open, and the three red stigma threads are immediately hand-separated from each flower and dried - an extremely labour-intensive process (many thousands of flowers are needed for a small amount of dried saffron), which accounts for saffron's high cost.
Parts: Flower
Season: Autumn, at flowering, harvested at dawn
The flowering heads are picked at full bloom in summer and dried quickly in a warm, shaded, airy place to preserve isoflavone content and colour.[40]
Parts: Flower, Leaf
Season: Summer, at full bloom
Traditional Uses
Saffron has a long Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and South Asian tradition as both a prized culinary spice/dye and a medicinal herb, used for mood support, digestive complaints and as a mild emmenagogue; its traditional mood-lifting reputation is now supported by clinical trials comparing standardised saffron extract to conventional antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression.[1]
Red clover flower has a long folk tradition as a blood-purifying and expectorant remedy for coughs and skin complaints, and more recently has become one of the most studied herbal sources of isoflavone phytoestrogens, researched for menopausal symptom relief and cardiovascular and bone support.[14, 40, 41]
Preparations
Standardised extract[1]
Stigma extract standardised to safranal/crocin content, taken as capsules; the form used in most clinical mood and metabolic studies.
Dosage
Standardised extract[1]
Clinical trials for mood support commonly use around 30 mg of standardised saffron extract daily (in divided doses); culinary use is typically well under 1 g. High medicinal doses (5 g or more) are considered potentially toxic and should be avoided. Educational reference only, not a prescription.
Standardized extract[14]
Clinical research commonly uses around 40-80 mg isoflavones daily. Educational reference only, not a prescription.
References
REF-0788, REF-0789, REF-0790, REF-2001, REF-2002, REF-2003, REF-2004, REF-2005, REF-2006, REF-2007, REF-2008, REF-2009, REF-2010
REF-1104, REF-1105, REF-1106, REF-1107, REF-1108, REF-1109, REF-1110, REF-1111, REF-1112, REF-1113, REF-2344, REF-2345, REF-2346, REF-0013, REF-2347, REF-2889, REF-2890, REF-2891, REF-2892, REF-2893, REF-2894, REF-2895, REF-2896, REF-2897, REF-2898, REF-2899, REF-2900, REF-2923, REF-2924, REF-2925, REF-2926, REF-2927, REF-2928, REF-2929, REF-2930, REF-2931, REF-2932, REF-2933, REF-2934
Drug Class Interactions
Drug Class: antidepressants-serotonergic
Mechanism: Saffron has antidepressant, serotonin-related activity (a meta-analysis of randomised trials found saffron more effective than placebo and comparable to standard antidepressants for mild-to-moderate depression; a trial safely combined low-dose saffron with SSRIs); because both raise serotonergic activity, combining saffron with antidepressants may add to serotonergic effects, so watch for side effects such as agitation or restlessness.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Drug Class: sedatives-cns-depressants
Mechanism: Saffron is traditionally used as a calming, sedative herb; taken with sedatives, sleeping tablets or other central-nervous-system depressants (including alcohol) it may add to drowsiness and slowed reactions.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Safety note[22]Caution
Drug Class: antidiabetics
Mechanism: Saffron lowers fasting blood glucose and HbA1c in trials in people with diabetes; combined with diabetes medicines it may add to blood-sugar lowering, so monitor blood sugar.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Drug Class: hormonal-therapies
Mechanism: Red clover is rich in isoflavones that act like weak oestrogens; its safety alongside hormone medicines (such as the contraceptive pill, HRT, or breast-cancer hormone treatments like tamoxifen) or in hormone-sensitive conditions is not established, so combined use warrants caution and medical advice.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-03
Lookalikes Review
Outcome: has-lookalikes
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07
Outcome: none-known
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07
Dangerous Lookalikes
Dangerous Plant: colchicum-autumnale
Confused Part: The whole autumn flower (a leafless lilac-purple, crocus-shaped bloom) and its style/stigma threads that can be taken for saffron, plus the corm; in spring the strap-shaped leaves are also confused with other greens.
Confusion Context: Autumn crocus / meadow saffron (Colchicum autumnale, family Colchicaceae) flowers in autumn with a leafless lilac-purple crocus-like flower that closely mimics true saffron crocus (Crocus sativus, Iridaceae) and is even nicknamed 'meadow saffron'. It contains colchicine, a cell toxin with no readily available antidote; ingestion causes deceptively delayed (hours later) multi-organ failure and can be fatal. A Swiss poison-centre review lists it among the few plants that can kill (Kupper & Reichert 2009), and a documented case describes severe multi-organ injury after it was eaten in error (Gabrscek et al. 2004). University extensions warn it should definitely not be used in place of saffron, because eating any part of it can be fatal.
Distinguishing Features: STAMEN COUNT (decisive): true saffron crocus has exactly THREE stamens per flower; autumn crocus (Colchicum) has SIX. Two independent university extensions confirm three-versus-six as the hard, countable difference., SAFFRON THREADS: saffron crocus has one style splitting into three long, deep-RED branched stigmas (the saffron threads). Colchicum has three separate pale styles with yellow anthers and does not produce the long red saffron threads., FLOWER ARCHITECTURE: saffron crocus is in the iris family (Iridaceae; 3 stamens, 1 style); Colchicum is in Colchicaceae (6 stamens, 3 styles) - a fundamentally different flower.
Key Test: Count the stamens inside the open flower: exactly THREE (with three long deep-red saffron threads) = true saffron crocus. SIX stamens (pale styles, yellow anthers, no red threads) = autumn crocus (Colchicum) - do NOT eat or use as saffron; it can be fatal. If in any doubt, do not harvest.
Reviewed By: Omnia Sana (owner-authorized)
Reviewed Date: 2026-07-07
Not documented
References & Sources
- Shafiee, A., Jafarabady, K., Seighali, N., Mohammadi, I. et al (2025) 'Effect of Saffron Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials', Nutrition Reviews, 83(3), pp. e751-e761. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuae076 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuae076 - Lopresti, A.L. and Drummond, P.D (2014) 'Saffron (Crocus sativus) for depression: a systematic review of clinical studies and examination of underlying antidepressant mechanisms of action', Human Psychopharmacology, 29(6), pp. 517-527. doi:10.1002/hup.2434 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1002/hup.2434 - Chen, Z., Gu, J., Lin, S., Xu, Z. et al (2022) 'Saffron essential oil ameliorates CUMS-induced depression-like behavior in mice via the MAPK-CREB1-BDNF signaling pathway', Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 300, pp. 115719. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2022.115719 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2022.115719 - Hausenblas, H.A., Saha, D., Dubyak, P.J. and Anton, S.D (2013) 'Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and major depressive disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials', Journal of Integrative Medicine, 11(6), pp. 377-383. doi:10.3736/jintegrmed2013056 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.3736/jintegrmed2013056 - Kell, G., Rao, A., Beccaria, G., Clayton, P., Inarejos-Garcia, A.M. and Prodanov, M (2017) 'affron a novel saffron extract (Crocus sativus L.) improves mood in healthy adults over 4 weeks in a double-blind, parallel, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial', Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 33, pp. 58-64. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2017.06.001 Randomized trial
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2017.06.001 - Baziar, S., Aqamolaei, A., Khadem, E., Mortazavi, S.H., Naderi, S., Sahebolzamani, E., Mortezaei, A., Jalilevand, S., Mohammadi, M., Shahmirzadi, M. and Akhondzadeh, S (2019) 'Crocus sativus L. Versus Methylphenidate in Treatment of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Randomized, Double-Blind Pilot Study', Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 29(3), pp. 205-212. doi:10.1089/cap.2018.0146 Randomized trial
https://doi.org/10.1089/cap.2018.0146 - Moshiri, M., Vahabzadeh, M. and Hosseinzadeh, H (2014) 'Clinical Applications of Saffron (Crocus sativus) and its Constituents: A Review', Drug Research, 65(6), pp. 287-295. doi:10.1055/s-0034-1375681 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0034-1375681 - Finley, J.W. and Gao, S (2017) 'A Perspective on Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) Constituent Crocin: A Potent Water-Soluble Antioxidant and Potential Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease', Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 65(5), pp. 1005-1020. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04398 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04398 - Boskabady, M.H. and Farkhondeh, T (2016) 'Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant, and Immunomodulatory Effects of Crocus sativus L. and its Main Constituents', Phytotherapy Research, 30(7), pp. 1072-1094. doi:10.1002/ptr.5622 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5622 - Bhandari, P.R (2015) 'Crocus sativus L. (saffron) for cancer chemoprevention: A mini review', Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 5(2), pp. 81-87. doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.009 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.10.009 - Khorasanchi, Z., Shafiee, M., Kermanshahi, F., Khazaei, M., Ryzhikov, M., Parizadeh, M.R., Kermanshahi, B., Ferns, G.A., Avan, A. and Hassanian, S.M (2018) 'Crocus sativus a natural food coloring and flavoring has potent anti-tumor properties', Phytomedicine, 43, pp. 21-27. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2018.03.041 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2018.03.041 - El Midaoui, A., Ghzaiel, I., Vervandier-Fasseur, D., Ksila, M., Zarrouk, A., Nury, T., Khallouki, F., El Hessni, A., Ibrahimi, S.O., Latruffe, N., Couture, R., Kharoubi, O., Brahmi, F., Hammami, S., Masmoudi-Kouki, O., Hammami, M., Ghrairi, T., Vejux, A. and Lizard, G (2022) 'Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases', Nutrients, 14(3), pp. 597. doi:10.3390/nu14030597 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14030597 - Pitsikas, N (2021) 'Crocus sativus L. Extracts and Its Constituents Crocins and Safranal; Potential Candidates for Schizophrenia Treatment?', Molecules, 26(5), pp. 1237. doi:10.3390/molecules26051237 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26051237 - Akhondzadeh, S. et al (2005) 'Comparison of Crocus sativus L'. Traditional / reference
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Comparison%20of%20Crocus%20sativus%20L - Hosseinzadeh, H. and Nassiri-Asl, M (2013) 'Avicenna', 27(4), pp. 475--483. Traditional / reference
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Avicenna - Moshiri, E. et al (2006) 'Crocus sativus L', pp. 607--611. Traditional / reference
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Crocus%20sativus%20L - Duke, J.A (2002) 'Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition'. Traditional / reference
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Handbook%20of%20Medicinal%20Herbs%2C%20Second%20Edition - Talaei, A., Hassanpour Moghadam, M., Sajadi Tabassi, S.A. and Mohajeri, S.A (2015) 'Crocin, the main active saffron constituent, as an adjunctive treatment in major depressive disorder: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot clinical trial', Journal of Affective Disorders, 174, pp. 51-56. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2014.11.035 Randomized trial
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2014.11.035 - Toth, B., Hegyi, P., Lantos, T., Szakacs, Z., Keremi, B., Varga, G., Tenk, J., Petervari, E., Balasko, M., Rumbus, Z., Rakonczay, Z., Balint, E.R., Kiss, T. and Csupor, D (2019) 'The efficacy of saffron in the treatment of mild to moderate depression: a meta-analysis', Planta Medica, 85(1), pp. 24-31. doi:10.1055/a-0660-9565 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1055/a-0660-9565 - Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar, M. and Hosseinzadeh, H (2024) 'Therapeutic potential of hypnotic herbal medicines: A comprehensive review', Phytotherapy Research, 38(6), pp. 3037-3059. doi:10.1002/ptr.8201 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.8201 - Block, K.I., Gyllenhaal, C. and Mead, M.N (2004) 'Safety and efficacy of herbal sedatives in cancer care', Integrative Cancer Therapies, 3(2), pp. 128-148. doi:10.1177/1534735404265003 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1177/1534735404265003 - Liu, J., Yang, Y. and Qi, Y (2024) 'Effect of saffron supplementation on the glycemic outcomes in diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis', Frontiers in Nutrition, 11, pp. 1349006. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1349006 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1349006 - Kupper, J. and Reichert, C (2009) 'Intoxications with plants', Therapeutische Umschau, 66(5), pp. 343-8. doi:10.1024/0040-5930.66.5.343 Clinical study
https://doi.org/10.1024/0040-5930.66.5.343 - Gabrscek, L. and Lesnicar, G. and Krivec, B. and Voga, G. and Sibanc, B. and Blatnik, J. and Jagodic, B (2004) 'Accidental poisoning with autumn crocus', Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology, 42(1), pp. 85-8. doi:10.1081/clt-120028750 Clinical study
https://doi.org/10.1081/clt-120028750 - University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension 'Autumn Crocus, Colchicum spp'. Available at: https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/autumn-crocus-colchicum-spp/ Traditional / reference
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/autumn-crocus-colchicum-spp/ - Ohio State University Extension (Buckeye Yard and Garden onLine) 'Crocus By Other Names'. Available at: https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1458 Traditional / reference
https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1458
- Kanadys, W., Baranska, A., Blaszczuk, A., Polz-Dacewicz, M. and others (2021) 'Evaluation of Clinical Meaningfulness of Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) Extract to Relieve Hot Flushes and Menopausal Symptoms in Peri- and Post-Menopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials', Nutrients, 13(4), pp. 1258. doi:10.3390/nu13041258 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13041258 - Kanadys, W., Baranska, A., Jedrych, M., Religioni, U. and others (2019) 'Effects of red clover (Trifolium pratense) isoflavones on the lipid profile of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women-A systematic review and meta-analysis', Maturitas, 132, pp. 7-16. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2019.11.001 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2019.11.001 - Yokoyama, S.I., Kodera, M., Hirai, A., Nakada, M. and others (2020) 'Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) Sprout Prevents Metabolic Syndrome', Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, 66(1), pp. 48-53. doi:10.3177/jnsv.66.48 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.3177/jnsv.66.48 - Gosciniak, A., Szulc, P., Zielewicz, W., Walkowiak, J. and others (2023) 'Multidirectional Effects of Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.) in Support of Menopause Therapy', Molecules, 28(13), pp. 5178. doi:10.3390/molecules28135178 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28135178 - Booth, N.L., Piersen, C.E., Banuvar, S., Geller, S.E. and others (2006) 'Clinical studies of red clover (Trifolium pratense) dietary supplements in menopause: a literature review', Menopause, 13(2), pp. 251-264. doi:10.1097/01.gme.0000198297.40269.f7 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1097/01.gme.0000198297.40269.f7 - Oza, M.J. and Kulkarni, Y.A (2020) 'Trifolium pratense (Red Clover) Improves SIRT1 Expression and Glycogen Content in High Fat Diet-Streptozotocin Induced Type 2 Diabetes in Rats', Chemistry & Biodiversity, 17(4), pp. e2000019. doi:10.1002/cbdv.202000019 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.202000019 - Circosta, C., De Pasquale, R., Palumbo, D.R., Samperi, S. and others (2006) 'Effects of isoflavones from red clover (Trifolium pratense) on skin changes induced by ovariectomy in rats', Phytotherapy Research, 20(12), pp. 1096-1099. doi:10.1002/ptr.2017 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.2017 - Brandli, A., Simpson, J.S. and Ventura, S (2010) 'Isoflavones isolated from red clover (Trifolium pratense) inhibit smooth muscle contraction of the isolated rat prostate gland', Phytomedicine, 17(11), pp. 895-901. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2010.05.006 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2010.05.006 - Burdette, J.E., Liu, J., Lantvit, D., Lim, E. and others (2002) 'Trifolium pratense (red clover) exhibits estrogenic effects in vivo in ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats', The Journal of Nutrition, 132(1), pp. 27-30. doi:10.1093/jn/132.1.27 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/132.1.27 - Jiang, Y.B. and Yang, Y.R (2016) 'Trifolium pratense isoflavones improve pulmonary vascular remodelling in broiler chickens', Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 100(6), pp. 1159-1168. doi:10.1111/jpn.12424 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1111/jpn.12424 - Yigit, E. and Unsal, S (2024) 'Isoflavones obtained from red clover improve both dyslipidemia and menopausal symptoms in menopausal women: a prospective randomized placebo-controlled trial', Climacteric, 27(6), pp. 548-554. doi:10.1080/13697137.2024.2393121 Randomized trial
https://doi.org/10.1080/13697137.2024.2393121 - Lethaby, A.E., Brown, J., Marjoribanks, J., Kronenberg, F., Roberts, H. and Eden, J (2007) 'Phytoestrogens for vasomotor menopausal symptoms', Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (4), pp. CD001395. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD001395.pub3 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD001395.pub3 - Geller, S.E. and Studee, L (2006) 'Soy and red clover for mid-life and aging', Climacteric, 9(4), pp. 245-263. doi:10.1080/13697130600736934 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1080/13697130600736934 - Atkinson, C. et al (2004) 'The effects of phytoestrogen isoflavones on bone density in women: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial', 79(2), pp. 326--333. doi:10.1093/ajcn/79.2.326 Randomized trial
https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/79.2.326 - Quah, Y., Yi-Le, J.C., Park, N.H., Lee, Y.Y., Lee, E.B., Jang, S.H., Kim, M.J., Rhee, M.H., Lee, S.J. and Park, S.C (2022) 'Serum biomarker-based osteoporosis risk prediction and the systemic effects of Trifolium pratense ethanolic extract in a postmenopausal model', Chinese Medicine, 17(1), pp. 70. doi:10.1186/s13020-022-00622-7 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13020-022-00622-7 - Mohsen, A. and Fatemeh, K. and Leila, N. and Mona, P. and Mohammad, Z. and Mozafar, K (2021) 'Pharmacological and therapeutic properties of the Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.): an overview of the new finding', J Tradit Chin Med, 41(4), pp. 642-649. doi:10.19852/j.cnki.jtcm.20210324.001 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.19852/j.cnki.jtcm.20210324.001 - Antonescu Mintas, A.I. and Miere Groza, F. and Fritea, L. and Ganea, M. and Zdrinca, M. and Dobjanschi, L. and Antonescu, A. and Vicas, S.I. and Bodog, F. and Sindhu, R.K. and Cavalu, S (2021) 'Perspectives on the Combined Effects of Trifolium pratense and Ocimum basilicum Extracts in Terms of Phytochemical Profile and Pharmacological Effects', Plants (Basel), 10(7). doi:10.3390/plants10071390 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10071390 - Tanrıverdi, G. and Abdulova, A. and Çölgeçen, H. and Atar, H. and Kaleci, B. and Ekiz-Yılmaz, T (2023) 'Investigation of apoptotic and antiproliferative effects of Turkish natural tetraploid Trifolium pratense L. extract on C6 glioblastoma cells via light and electron microscopy', Ultrastruct Pathol, 47(3), pp. 160-171. doi:10.1080/01913123.2023.2184893 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1080/01913123.2023.2184893 - Zakłos-Szyda, M. and Budryn, G (2020) 'The Effects of Trifolium pratense L. Sprouts' Phenolic Compounds on Cell Growth and Migration of MDA-MB-231, MCF-7 and HUVEC Cells', Nutrients, 12(1). doi:10.3390/nu12010257 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12010257 - Khazayel, S. and Faraji, M.H. and Akbaribazm, M. and Khazaei, M. and Niromand, E. and Khazaei, M.R (2025) 'Synergistic inhibitory effects of Trifolium pratense L. extract and doxorubicin on 4T1 tumor-bearing mice are mediated via targeting the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway and reversal of epithelial-mesenchymal transition', Avicenna J Phytomed, 15(5), pp. 1546-1561. doi:10.22038/ajp.2025.25940 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.22038/ajp.2025.25940 - Shirani Asl, V. and Rafieemehr, H. and Tamaddon, G (2024) 'The impact of Trifolium pratense extract on apoptosis and autophagy in NALM-6 cells: implications for B-ALL intervention', Med Oncol, 41(11), pp. 257. doi:10.1007/s12032-024-02485-4 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12032-024-02485-4 - Won, J.P. and Kim, E. and Hur, J. and Lee, H.G. and Lee, W.J. and Seo, H.G (2023) 'Red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) extract inhibits ferroptotic cell death by modulating cellular iron homeostasis', J Ethnopharmacol, 308, pp. 116267. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2023.116267 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2023.116267 - Al-Shami, A.S. and Essawy, A.E. and Elkader, H.A.E.A (2023) 'Molecular mechanisms underlying the potential neuroprotective effects of Trifolium pratense and its phytoestrogen-isoflavones in neurodegenerative disorders', Phytother Res, 37(6), pp. 2693-2737. doi:10.1002/ptr.7870 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.7870 - Zhang, H. and Zhao, J. and Shang, H. and Guo, Y. and Chen, S (2020) 'Extraction, purification, hypoglycemic and antioxidant activities of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) polysaccharides', Int J Biol Macromol, 148, pp. 750-760. doi:10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.01.194 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.01.194 - Khazaei, A.H. and Bozorgi, A. and Ghanbari, E. and Bozorgi, M. and Khazaei, M (2025) 'Trifolium pratense-Derived Exosome Improved Serum Biochemical Parameters and Pancreatic Genes in STZ-Induced Diabetic Rats', Endocrinol Diabetes Metab, 8(5), pp. e70103. doi:10.1002/edm2.70103 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1002/edm2.70103 - Hitzman, R. and Malca-Garcia, G.R. and Howell, C. and Park, H.Y. and Friesen, J.B. and Dong, H. and Dunlap, T. and McAlpine, J.B. and Vollmer, G. and Bosland, M.C. and Nikolić, D. and Lankin, D.C. and Chen, S.N. and Bolton, J.L. and Pauli, G.F. and Dietz, B.M (2023) 'DESIGNER fraction concept unmasks minor bioactive constituents in red clover (Trifolium pratense L.)', Phytochemistry, 214, pp. 113789. doi:10.1016/j.phytochem.2023.113789 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phytochem.2023.113789 - Lien, Y.Y. and Shyur, L.F. and Cheng, Y.B. and Chang, M.T. and Chang, C.T. and Chen, Y.H. and Lai, G.H. and Liao, H.Y. and Cheng, M.C (2024) 'Trifolium pratense as a novel phytogenic supplement, is an anticoccidial agent in chickens', Poult Sci, 103(10), pp. 104064. doi:10.1016/j.psj.2024.104064 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psj.2024.104064 - Lee, S.G. and Brownmiller, C. and Lee, S. and Kang, H.W (2020) 'Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Anthocyanins of Trifolium pratense (Red Clover) in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW-267.4 Macrophages', Nutrients, 12(4), pp. 1089-1089. doi:10.3390/nu12041089 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu12041089 - Akbaribazm, M. and Khazaei, M.R. and Khazaei, M.R. and Khazaei, M. and Khazaei, M (2020) 'Phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of alcoholic/hydroalcoholic extract of Trifolium pratense', Chinese Herbal Medicines, 12(3), pp. 326-335. doi:10.1016/j.chmed.2020.02.002 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chmed.2020.02.002 - Fu, X. and Qin, T. and Yu, J. and Jiao, J. and Ma, Z. and Fu, Q. and Deng, X. and Ma, S (2019) 'Formononetin Ameliorates Cognitive Disorder via PGC-1α Pathway in Neuroinflammation Conditions in High-Fat Diet-Induced Mice', CNS & Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets, 18(7), pp. 566-577. doi:10.2174/1871527318666190807160137 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.2174/1871527318666190807160137 - Singh, L. and Kaur, H. and Arya, G.C. and Bhatti, R (2023) 'Neuroprotective potential of formononetin, a naturally occurring isoflavone phytoestrogen', Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 103(1), pp. e14353-e14353. doi:10.1111/cbdd.14353 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1111/cbdd.14353 - Tan, J.W. and Kim, M (2016) 'Neuroprotective Effects of Biochanin A against β-Amyloid-Induced Neurotoxicity in PC12 Cells via a Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis Pathway', Molecules, 21(5), pp. 548-548. doi:10.3390/molecules21050548 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21050548 - Bai, Y. and Li, Z. and Liu, W. and Gao, D. and Liu, M. and Zhang, P (2019) 'Biochanin A attenuates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury through the TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway', Acta Cirúrgica Brasileira, 34(11), pp. e201901104-e201901104. doi:10.1590/s0102-865020190110000004 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1590/s0102-865020190110000004 - Félix, F.B. and Vago, J.P. and Fernandes, D.D.O. and Martins, D.G. and Zaidan, I. and Gonçalves, W.A. and Costa, W.C. and Araújo, J.M.D. and Queiroz‐Junior, C.M. and Campolina-Silva, G.H. and Soriani, F.M. and Sousa, L.P. and Grespan, R. and Teixeira, M.M. and Pinho, V (2021) 'Biochanin A Regulates Key Steps of Inflammation Resolution in a Model of Antigen-Induced Arthritis via GPR30/PKA-Dependent Mechanism', Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12, pp. 662308-662308. doi:10.3389/fphar.2021.662308 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.662308 - Akbaribazm, M. and Khazaei, M.R. and Khazaei, M.R. and Khazaei, M. and Khazaei, M (2020) 'Trifolium pratense L. (red clover) extract and doxorubicin synergistically inhibits proliferation of 4T1 breast cancer in tumor‐bearing BALB/c mice through modulation of apoptosis and increase antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory related pathways', Food Science & Nutrition, 8(8), pp. 4276-4290. doi:10.1002/fsn3.1724 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.1724 - Akbaribazm, M. and Khazaei, M.R. and Khazaei, M.R. and Khazaei, F. and Khazaei, M. and Khazaei, M (2020) 'Doxorubicin and Trifolium pratense L. (Red clover) extract synergistically inhibits brain and lung metastases in 4T1 tumor‐bearing BALB/c mice', Food Science & Nutrition, 8(10), pp. 5557-5570. doi:10.1002/fsn3.1820 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.1820 - Khazaei, M. and Pazhouhi, M (2018) 'Antiproliferative Effect of Trifolium Pratens L. Extract in Human Breast Cancer Cells', Nutrition and Cancer, 71(1), pp. 128-140. doi:10.1080/01635581.2018.1521443 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2018.1521443 - Pazhouhi, M. and Khazaei, M (2018) 'Protective effect of hydroalcoholic extracts of Trifolium pratense L. on pancreatic β cell line (RIN-5F) against cytotoxicty of streptozotocin', Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences, 13(4), pp. 324-324. doi:10.4103/1735-5362.235159 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.4103/1735-5362.235159 - Antonescu, I.A. and Antonescu, A. and Miere, F. and Fritea, L. and Teușdea, A.C. and Vicaș, L.G. and Vicaş, S.I. and Brihan, I. and Domuța, M. and Zdrîncă, M. and Zdrîncă, M. and Cavalu, S (2021) 'Evaluation of Wound Healing Potential of Novel Hydrogel Based on Ocimum basilicum and Trifolium pratense Extracts', Processes, 9(11), pp. 2096-2096. doi:10.3390/pr9112096 Preclinical
https://doi.org/10.3390/pr9112096 - British Herbal Medicine Association (1996) 'British Herbal Pharmacopoeia'. Traditional / reference
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=British%20Herbal%20Pharmacopoeia - Hoffmann, D (2003) 'Medical Herbalism'. Traditional / reference
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Medical%20Herbalism - Duke, J.A (2002) 'Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Second Edition'. Traditional / reference
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Handbook%20of%20Medicinal%20Herbs%2C%20Second%20Edition - Booth, N.L., Piersen, C.E., Banuvar, S., Geller, S.E., Shulman, L.P. and Farnsworth, N.R (2006) 'Clinical studies of red clover (Trifolium pratense) dietary supplements in menopause: a literature review', Menopause, 13(2), pp. 251-264. doi:10.1097/01.gme.0000198297.40269.f7 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1097/01.gme.0000198297.40269.f7 - Fritz, H., Seely, D., Flower, G., Skidmore, B., Fernandes, R., Vadeboncoeur, S., Kennedy, D., Cooley, K., Wong, R., Sagar, S., Sabri, E. and Fergusson, D (2013) 'Soy, red clover, and isoflavones and breast cancer: a systematic review', PLoS One, 8(11), pp. e81968. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0081968 Meta-analysis / review
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0081968
Generated automatically from the Omnia Sana plant database and its cited sources. For educational purposes only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using medicinal plants.