INTRODUCTION

Shamrock seed is a seed, i.e. a propagative part of a clover plant. It is contained in a small dry fruit where it germinates to maturity.

There are about 300 species of clover, and the size of the seeds, their shape and color, all vary greatly, depending on clover species. The seeds can be roundish, as well as oval or heart-shaped, and their color ranges from yellow to various shades of red and brown.

http://www.mbsseed.com/CLOYUC%20seed.JPG

FAST FACTS

1. Botanically speaking, there is no such a thing as "Shamrock seed", or for that matter, a "Shamrock plant". The word "shamrock" comes from the Irish word "seamrog" which translates as "little clover".

2. Clover seeds themselves are not edible, but clover sprouts, containing vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and as much as 35% protein, have a great nutritional value.

3. Clover sprouts are mild in flavor, comparable to Alfalfa sprout, and are commonly used in preparing bread, sandwiches, salads and soups.

4. Clover is widely known as a traditional source for a number of natural remedies.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE

Vitamins: A, B, C, E and K
Minerals: Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc
Carotene
Chlorophyll
Amino Acids
Trace Elements
Protein (up to 35%)

HEALTH BENEFITS

Clover, Red clover in particular, is used to treat a number of medical conditions such as chronic skin diseases and coughs. Clover also has antibiotic properties which makes it effective in treating tuberculosis and other bacterial infections.

There are indications that anticancer compounds contained in Red clover make it effective in fighting the disease. However, scientific study of red clover as a cancer remedy is still in its infancy, and more research is needed in order to determine red clover's effectiveness in cancer treatment.

SHAMROCK IN CULTURAL TRADITION

The Shamrock plant, its leaves forming a triad, played an important role in Celtic religious tradition, and was held sacred by the Druids who considered the number three to be magical.

St. Patrick also used the Shamrock as an illustration of the Holy Trinity, in his efforts to spread Christianity among Celtic peoples of Ireland.

SHAMROCK SEED TRIVIA

On March 16 2009, Fox News reported on a seizure of 16 packs of shamrock seeds by Federal agents at Dulles International Airport. The packets, as well as some pork and beef, were confiscated from passengers arriving from Ireland. Seed imports to United States are regulated by law, and no imports without proper documentation are permitted.

Both, the seeds and the confiscated meat, were subsequently destroyed.

REFERENCES

Shamrock
http://www.shamrocknation.com/site/1517278/page/709569
http://store.lollysirishgifts.com/allabsham.html

Clover Seeds
http://www.purcellmountainfarms.com/Clover%20Seeds.htm
http://www.outsidepride.com/catalog/Clover-Seed-p-1-c-314.html

Planting and Sprouting
http://www.thejump.net/hunting/food-plots/how-to-plant-clover.htm
http://www.thenourishinggourmet.com/2009/02/clover-sprouts.html

Sprout Cookery
http://www.sproutpeople.com/cookery.html

Health Info
http://www.raysahelian.com/redclover.html
http://www.newnatives.com/nutrition.html
http://www.isga-sprouts.org/clover.htm

Citation (Fox News)
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,509354,00.html

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