Red Clover

Red clover is a wonderful, gentle blood purifier. In cases where the lymph nodes are swollen, a cup of tea made with one nice fat blossom and a cup of water is usually all it takes to get the lymph moving again and cleanse the system.

Red clover is also an alterative. It can help improve general health. Alteratives increase blood flow to tissues, detoxify, restore body functions, aid assimilation of nutrients, stimulate metabolism and promote excretion of waste. It's also beneficial for calming coughs and reducing skin inflammations.

My red clover is in bloom now. It's time to harvest these nice plump little globes. Sometimes I have a hard time getting them to dry without turning black when the weather is humid, but that's not really a problem. I can just loosely pack them in a jar and cover them with either 100 proof vodka or Apple Cider Vinegar. Cover them tightly and place them out of the light. Shake once or twice a day for six weeks, strain and bottle. They're ready to use. You can take 35 to 70 drops of the vodka tincture in a little water, or up to a tablespoon of the vinegar in water, or mix the vinegar with oil for a vinaigrette dressing.