Flower Power

Red Clover calms the storm

Rose Morley

Does your mind feel overactive? When we are stressed and our thoughts are in overdrive, it can have a huge impact on our system, contributing to IBS, gastric upset, nausea, and sleeplessness. If you need a little more grounding and focus to combat these symptoms, then Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) is an excellent healer, soothing the heart, and taming those raging internal fires.

When many of us are still struggling with the emotional fallout of the pandemic lockdowns, flower essences can be of great benefit, used either alone or in combination to relieve fears and anxieties. Empaths, in particular, can benefit from using Red Clover flower essence, as its balancing properties can help them avoid taking on everyone else’s burdens and stresses. Similarly, those who hide emotions deep within ourselves will find Red Clover can help to slowly bring emotions back to the surface, in order to deal with them at a pace that is comfortable. So, when you start to feel growing panic and fear, turn to Red Clover to bring your feelings back under control, perhaps combining it with one of the Element Essences (Findhorn) for extra support.

Another source of upheaval is the menopause. Anxieties around whether and when the next period will come, and what the physical and emotional impact will be, can cause stress and overwhelm. Red Clover flower essence is a simple and effective aid to get you through that emotional struggle. In fact, Red Clover is effective for a wide array of pains associated with the womb. As a herbal tea, it can help soothe menstrual issues, including cramps and PMS symptoms. Massaging the flower essence directly onto the skin in the painful area can help. Kramer (1996) writes about applying flower essences topically according to body maps, and I’ve found this approach really effective in helping not only with physical symptoms, but emotional ones as well. For those who know the overwhelming surge of pain when a period is due, Red Clover tincture can help to relieve cramps, tenderness, and even alleviate mood.

Finally, if you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant, combine the Red Clover flower essence with She Oak (Australian Bush Flower). Both these essences can be good for anxiety pre-pregnancy, during pregnancy, and in labour. Both essences work to balance the emotions, and keep stresses to a minimum.

The small, lovely, and powerful Clover flower soothes and re-balances. If I had my way, its essence would be added to the mains water supply; as it is, a bottle will fit snuggly into your pocket for whenever you need it.

References:

Australian Bush Flower Essences: ausflowers.com.au

Findhorn Flower Essences: findhornessences.com

Kramer, D. (1996) New Bach Flower Body Maps: Treatment by Topical Application. Healing Arts Press: Fairfield, CT