Common Side Effects of Clover Consumption
For most people, eating small amounts of common clover, such as white clover, is relatively safe, but risks increase with larger quantities or specific species. The potential side effects range from mild discomfort to more serious health issues, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those on certain medications.
Digestive Issues and Bloating
One of the most frequently reported side effects is gastrointestinal distress, including bloating and an upset stomach. This is more pronounced when consuming raw clover in large quantities. Cooking the greens can help reduce this effect. The high fiber content and certain compounds in clover can be difficult for some people to digest, leading to discomfort.
Increased Bleeding Risk
Some species, particularly white clover and moldy sweet clover, contain compounds that act as anticoagulants and can thin the blood.
- Sweet Clover: When sweet clover hay or silage becomes spoiled and moldy, it can develop dicoumarol, a compound that prevents blood clotting. While this primarily affects livestock, it illustrates the plant's potential effects on blood coagulation. Humans consuming large amounts of certain clover could theoretically experience a similar effect, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding.
- White Clover: This species also has a blood-thinning effect and should be avoided by anyone taking anticoagulant medications or who has an upcoming surgery.
Hormonal Disruptions from Phytoestrogens
Red clover, often used in herbal supplements for menopausal symptoms, contains high levels of isoflavones, which are phytoestrogens (plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen). While beneficial for some, these compounds can pose risks for others.
Potential hormonal side effects of red clover include:
- Vaginal spotting or prolonged menstruation
- Exacerbation of hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, or endometriosis
- Negative interactions with hormone-based medications, including contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy
Comparison of Red Clover vs. White Clover Side Effects
This table summarizes the typical side effects associated with two of the most common types of clover.
| Feature | Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) | White Clover (Trifolium repens) |
|---|---|---|
| Hormonal Effects | High levels of phytoestrogens can cause hormonal disruption, such as vaginal spotting and prolonged menstruation. | Low levels of phytoestrogens are unlikely to cause significant hormonal effects in humans. |
| Gastrointestinal Effects | Moderate risk of nausea, muscle aches, and upset stomach, especially with higher doses. | Higher risk of bloating, particularly when eaten raw and in large quantities. |
| Blood Clotting | High doses may slow blood clotting due to certain compounds and should be used cautiously with blood thinners. | Contains compounds that can cause a blood-thinning effect, advising caution before surgery or with certain medications. |
| Toxicity Risk | Generally low toxicity, but interactions with medications are a key concern. | Low toxicity risk in fresh form, but some varieties can release hydrogen cyanide, especially when stressed. |
| Medicinal Use | Commonly used in supplements for menopause, but requires caution due to hormonal activity. | Used less frequently for medicinal purposes in humans; more for forage. |
Important Safety Precautions
Eating clover requires careful consideration, especially regarding the source and species. Foraged clover is susceptible to contamination from pesticides, herbicides, and other environmental pollutants. Always ensure any clover you consume comes from a clean, untreated source. It is also crucial to correctly identify the species you are harvesting, as some look-alikes may be toxic.
The Danger of Spoiled Sweet Clover
Sweet clover is a different species from red and white clovers and becomes highly toxic when it spoils. Moldy sweet clover contains dicoumarol, a potent anticoagulant. This risk is primarily a concern with spoiled hay and silage fed to livestock, but it serves as a powerful reminder of how plant compounds can change under certain conditions and become dangerous.
Interactions with Medications
Clover, particularly red clover, can interact with several types of medications due to its isoflavone content.
- Blood Thinners: Individuals on anticoagulant drugs like warfarin face an increased risk of bleeding and bruising.
- Hormone Therapy: Clover's estrogen-like effects can interfere with hormone replacement therapy, hormonal birth control, and drugs like tamoxifen, used to treat certain cancers.
- Methotrexate: Red clover may increase the concentration of this medication in the body, potentially leading to increased side effects such as nausea and stomach pain.
It is essential to consult a healthcare provider before consuming clover, especially if you are on medication or have a pre-existing medical condition. For further information on specific health interactions, resources like WebMD provide detailed lists of potential drug interactions related to clover supplements.
Conclusion
While both red and white clover are generally considered safe for consumption in moderation, they are not without risk. Potential side effects range from mild digestive upset to serious hormonal issues and complications with blood clotting, depending on the species and quantity consumed. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have hormone-sensitive cancers, bleeding disorders, or are on specific medications should avoid consuming clover. As with any foraged plant, proper identification and sourcing from an uncontaminated area are paramount to safety. Always consult a medical professional before adding clover to your diet, particularly if consuming it in medicinal amounts or as a supplement.
