Red Clover and Evening Primrose Oil for Hot Flashes: What the Evidence Shows
Menopause & HormonesArticleTwo of the most familiar herbal names on the menopause shelf, two different stories. Studies of red clover for hot flashes have been inconsistent, and there isn't enough evidence to say evening primrose oil helps menopause symptoms. Here is what federal health researchers have found.
In this article
Red clover and evening primrose oil sit side by side in many menopause supplement aisles, and both turn up in blends. They’re very different plants with different claims. Here is what the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH)1 says about each.
Myth: red clover is a proven natural estrogen for hot flashes
Red clover contains isoflavones, plant compounds that are structurally similar to estrogen.1 That’s the basis of the marketing. But studies of red clover for hot flashes have had inconsistent results, and some had a high risk of bias.1 Overall, research hasn’t shown conclusive benefit for any health condition.1
A few more findings:1
- It may help cholesterol in postmenopausal women, but more research is needed.
- Only a small number of studies have looked at bone density, with inconsistent results.
- Extracts have been used in studies for up to 2 years and appear to be well tolerated.
Red clover is related in action to soy isoflavones. Our article on soy isoflavone supplements covers that evidence.
Myth: evening primrose oil eases menopause symptoms
Evening primrose oil contains an omega-6 fat called gamma-linolenic acid. It’s promoted for eczema, breast pain, PMS and menopause symptoms.2 NCCIH says there isn’t enough evidence to support its use for any health condition, and there’s insufficient evidence to show whether it helps menopause symptoms.2 For breast pain, it’s probably no better than a placebo.2
It’s probably safe for most adults when taken by mouth. The most common side effects are stomach pain, nausea and diarrhea.2
Before you buy
- Supplements aren’t FDA-approved before they’re sold.1
- Some herbs interact with medicines. Tell your pharmacist what you take.12
- Read blends carefully. Our guide to menopause supplement labels explains how.
What has stronger evidence
Hormone therapy and several prescription nonhormonal medicines have been tested in larger trials. Our guides to hot flash help without hormones, black cohosh and low-dose paroxetine compare options.
Questions to ask
- Is it safe with my medicines and my health history?
- How long should I try it before deciding whether it helps?
- What other treatments might work better for me?
Try: “I’ve been taking red clover for my hot flashes for two months and I’m not sure it helps. What else could I try, given my history?”
My Body Changed. Now What? includes a Visit Brief. Use it to track your hot flashes and list every supplement you take. See the book.
This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It isn't a substitute for diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Please don't ignore professional advice or delay getting care because of something you read here. If you've had breast or uterine cancer, or take blood thinners or other prescription medicines, ask your clinician or pharmacist before taking any herbal supplement. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. This article discusses dietary supplement ingredients and federal health information. It does not evaluate any particular brand or product. Girl Playbook does not endorse any specific product, test, or provider.
Girl Playbook sells this book. It provides education and worksheets, not individualized medical care.
Sources
The research behind this article, in the order it’s cited. How we source our articles.
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH)Red Clover (opens in a new tab)abcdefg
- NIHEvening Primrose Oil (opens in a new tab)abcde
Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we’ll check it.
