I'd like to share what Kathleen Brown, herbal teacher, writer, gardener and prior president of the Rocky Mountain Unit of The Herb Society, writes about red clover in her book, 'Herbal Teas: 101 Nourishing Blends for Daily Health & Vitality':
"Clover helps heal the earth as a regenerative mulch for depleted soil, replenishing nitrogen. It contains high amounts of protein and calcium and is a richly nourishing and purifying herb for the blood, traditionally used to help clear the skin. Clover is best known today as an excellent spring tonic. It gently nourishes, tones, and cleanses over time, often improving various metabolic functions. Traditionally, it has been used as an herbal cancer treatment, and clover is also good in formulas that address the healing of bones, nerves, and muscles. It's also considered appropriate for healing use with children and was the favorite food for the mythical Brer Rabbit.
health benefits:
- Nourishes and purifies blood
- Relieves symptoms of cough, cold, asthma, and bronchitis
- Externally, useful in compresses and baths for rashes, ulcers, burns and sores
- Supports nerves as relaxing and nutrient-rich tonic."
I made this tea using one handful of fresh clover flowers, lightly rinsed in cool water, covered with freshly boiled water, and steeped with the cover on for at least 10 minutes, and as long as it took until I finished the 3 cup pot... ~1 hour, maybe, for me.
