.....lucky clover

Yogis,
My five-year-old grandson and I were walking through the yard. He suddenly drops to his knees exclaiming, ‘Nana, I think I found a four-leaf clover!’ Did you know that on average there is only 1 four leaf clover per 10,000 clovers? It must be his lucky day…..

As children most of us established a bond with clover, along with many of the other so-called ‘weeds’. Seeing them as friends.  I still remember kneeling in the grass patiently searching on summer days. One pointed concentration. A type of meditation before I knew what meditation was. Even to this day, if you find yourself surrounded by clover, don’t you find your eyes scanning?

There are over 300 varieties of clover. From the genus Trifolieae, they are a flowering plant in the legume family. The most common type found in our lawns is the small white flowered clover, though not exceptionally medicinal for us, they are a bounty for the earth!

Have you ever really looked at her…….

Allowing clover in makes the grass around it more draught and dog urine tolerant. Clover adds nutrients to the soil, fights pests and keeps the lawn greener longer. Clover also aerates the soil and the honeybees, butterflies and rabbits will thank you. Prior to the 1950’s clover was even a welcome addition to grass seed, but then herbicide companies convinced us otherwise. We are so easily swayed……

Then there is her taller cousin red clover, with her bright purple-pink blossoms who heals both earth and us! Her flowers are a top anti-cancer herb when used dried in infusions. As an ally for women, red clover supports us through all of our life cycle phases.  For the maiden she is a cherished fertility herb when preparing to start a family. For the mother, she reduces PMS and supports breast health, while at the other end of the cycle, as a crone I know I am personally grateful for her help in taming my hot flashes.  

A powerful, yet gentle medicine, red clover is considered by many herbalists to be a ‘God-given remedy.’ And she in turn gives herself freely.  

Add delicious color to your salads by throwing in raw blossoms or cook them with grains for a protein boost. While white clover blooms daintily dot the lawn in spring, red clover continues to brighten fields, sunny trails and roadsides well into the brisk days of fall.

Take the time to notice her next time you walk by. Three leaves or four, clover brings good fortune wherever she goes!

I feel lucky to know her,
SARAH