Lady’s Bedstraw (Galium verum)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rubiaceae
• Common Names: Lady’s Bedstraw, Yellow Bedstraw, Cheese Rennet
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)

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Description

Galium verum is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia, known for its yellow flowers and historical use as a natural coagulant in cheese-making. It has been valued in herbal medicine for its diuretic, lymphatic, and skin-healing properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European folk medicine as a lymphatic and kidney tonic.
• Employed as a diuretic for urinary and kidney health.
• Applied topically for wound healing, burns, and skin conditions.
• Traditionally used in cheese-making as a rennet substitute.

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Constituents

• Iridoid glycosides
• Flavonoids
• Coumarins
• Tannins
• Essential oils
• Saponins

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Actions

• Lymphatic tonic
• Diuretic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Astringent
• Wound healing
• Antispasmodic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Lymphatic and Detoxification Support:
Helps to stimulate lymphatic drainage and improve immune function.

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

3. Skin Healing and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Traditionally used for eczema, wounds, and minor burns.

4. Digestive Health:
Mildly astringent, used to soothe gastrointestinal discomfort and improve digestion.

5. Nervous System Support:
Has been traditionally used to calm nervous tension and mild spasms.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried aerial parts 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 wounds and burns.

Bath Infusion:

• Used in skin baths for soothing irritation and inflammation.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution and consult a healthcare provider.
• Diuretic Effects: May enhance the effects of diuretic medications.
• Allergies: Avoid if allergic to plants in the Rubiaceae family.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports detoxification, digestion, and skin health.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used as a blood cleanser and lymphatic tonic.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Kapha, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.

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Combinations

• For Lymphatic Support: Combine with cleavers and red clover.
• For Urinary Health: Combine with dandelion and uva ursi.
• For Skin Conditions: Combine with calendula and plantain.

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Harvesting and Storage

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

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Galium verum’s lymphatic-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Lady’s Bedstraw remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for lymphatic health, skin support, and urinary function.