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Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Rubiaceae
  • Common Names: Cleavers, Goosegrass, Stickyweed, Bedstraw
  • Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)

Description

Galium aparine is a sprawling, annual herb found in temperate regions across the world. It is well known for its clinging, sticky stems and leaves, which allow it to adhere to clothing and other plants. Traditionally, cleavers has been valued for its lymphatic, diuretic, and detoxifying properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European folk medicine as a lymphatic cleanser and diuretic.
  • Traditionally employed to support kidney and urinary tract health.
  • Applied as a poultice for skin conditions, burns, and wounds.
  • Consumed as a spring tonic for detoxification and overall vitality.

Constituents

  • Iridoid glycosides
  • Flavonoids
  • Coumarins
  • Tannins
  • Saponins
  • Organic acids

Actions

  • Lymphatic tonic
  • Diuretic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Astringent
  • Detoxifying
  • Demulcent

Medicinal Uses

1. Lymphatic System Support:
Cleavers is traditionally used to stimulate lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce swollen glands and improve immune function.

2. Kidney and Urinary Health:
Acts as a mild diuretic, supporting kidney function and easing urinary tract inflammation.

3. Skin Healing:
Traditionally applied as a wash or poultice for eczema, psoriasis, wounds, and burns.

4. Detoxification and Blood Cleansing:
Often used as part of herbal detox regimens to support overall health and vitality.

5. Soothing and Cooling Properties:
Helpful for fevers, inflammation, and conditions where cooling and moisture balance are needed.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Fresh crushed herb applied to inflamed skin and wounds.

Juice:

  • Fresh cleavers can be juiced and taken in small amounts for detoxification.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Diuretics: May enhance the effects of pharmaceutical diuretics; use with caution.
  • Allergies: Avoid if allergic to plants in the Rubiaceae family.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports detoxification, lymphatic health, and skin healing.
  • Traditional European Medicine: Used as a blood and lymph cleanser, often in spring tonics.
  • Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Kapha, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.

Combinations

  • For Lymphatic Support: Combine with red clover and burdock root.
  • For Urinary Health: Combine with corn silk and uva ursi.
  • For Skin Conditions: Combine with calendula and plantain.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Aerial parts are best collected in spring and early summer before flowering.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
  • Storage: Store dried herb in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Galium aparine’s role in lymphatic stimulation, detoxification, and skin support, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Cleavers remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for lymphatic health, urinary support, and skin healing.