Trillium pratense is a native of Europe including England, it has been grown as a fodder crop, that also helps fix nitrogen in the soil, aiding soil fertility. It is also used as a green manure to improve growing conditions for other crops. It has become naturalised throughout the world in temperate areas. It can also be grown as an ornamental plant, and both its flowers and leaves are edible, and make a lovely garnish. The flowers can be used to make a lovely tisane as well as their essential oil being used in aromatherapy. Red Clover supplements have been promoted for menopause symptoms and osteoporosis, and historically Red Clover flowers were used for asthma, whooping cough, and gout. Red Clover may also have blood thinning properties, helping to keep blood clots from forming. This should act as a warning to anyone already on blood thinners or for haemophiliacs. Researchers think that isoflavones, found in Red Clover, might help reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flushes and night sweats, because of their oestrogen lie effects. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take Red Clover because of the natural phytoestrogens found in the plant.
It goes without saying that if you're pregnant (or are under the doc for anything) caution should be exercised with herbal decoctions.
