Cleavers is a sticky friend of ours that got its common name because of its ability to “stick” to other plants to gain height and reach the sun, almost in a vine-like matter. While “to split” usually refers to splitting or cutting something, in Old English to split actually meant “to stay together.” The hooked leaves of clovers are not the only sticky part of this plant. The seeds, similar to thistle or burdock seeds, are surrounded by small burrs with a Velcro-like texture. These burrs stick to animals and use them as a transport system to disperse the seeds. Cleavers likes to grow in densely wooded areas with shady, wooded soils. When not attached to other plants, Cleavers tend to crawl across the forest floor. Clovers in particular like to grow near Douglas Fir and you can often find the two next to each other. Cleavers has 6-8 leaves around the square stem. You can identify the square stem by rolling it between your fingers and feeling for the edges.
Cleaver’s Latin name is Galium aparine. There are several Galium species, but Galium generally refers to the Bed Straw family. Here at WishGarden we prefer aparine because it is the most juicy and robust. When you press or bruise Cleavers, it gives off a very light scent that is almost reminiscent of rose. We also choose the aparine variety (Cleavers) because several other members of the Galium genus are endangered and overharvested. The word Galium comes from the word Gala, the Greek word for milk. Cleavers’ leaves were traditionally used to curdle milk and were stuck together to create a sort of “filter” for making cheese. In fact, the word aparine means ‘to hold’. Another word is derived from aparine is the Spanish word aprender, which means learning. Nasty aprender or ‘learning’ something means that it ‘sticks’ in the mind! Just like the seed burrs stick to the fur of animals.
Cleavers are part of the Rubiaceae (or madder) family, the same family as coffee. Cleavers seeds actually contain a small amount of caffeic acid and can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. Although the most common part of Cleavers is the above-ground stems and leaves, the seeds and root also have uses. This family is traditionally used as a red dye in Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean and the Americas. You can use the carrot almost like a “crayon” (a perfect activity for the kids: harvest and then draw!).
Cleavers – also known as Cleavers Wort (Wort simply means ‘weed’ or useful plant), Hitchhikers, Galion, Galberions, Aparine, Goosegrass, Clites, Goslingweed – is a ‘cooling’ herb. It is indicated for any condition of hot or irritated tissue (ideally as a tea if you also feel hot and irritated!) In Greek medicine, Cleavers is mainly used to support a balanced body temperature. This is due to the tannins, trace elements and organic acids. Cleavers is also an alternative herb. An alternative is an herb that changes nutrients and removes waste, making it an excellent agent for detoxification support. Alternatives can also be described as “cleansing tonics” or “restoratives”. Alternatives are best taken long term to help change the condition of your tissues and improve their vitality. They give your tissues the power to fight diseases and heal properly. Certain alternatives have different affinities for different tissue types. For example, Mullein for the lungs, Calendula for the skin or Burdock root for the liver. Cleavers has an affinity with the lymph (removes excess, stagnant fluids in the body), the bladder and the skin. Cleavers are especially beneficial for bladder or urinary tract health because it can actually cool fluids and provide relief. Cleavers can also be soothing to the urinary tract, meaning it can hydrate and soothe the urinary tract and gently promote urination. Another example of an emollient urine softener is Cornsilk and Marshmallow. Cleavers and Cornsilk are two of the superhero herbs featured in our Bladder Buddy formula.
Alternatives also work great when used long-term to restore metabolic imbalances (they are often called “metabolic” tonics). These herbs generally contain a lot of magnesium, calcium and potassium. In addition to being rich in these minerals, Cleavers is also a great source of chlorophyll, which is rich in vitamins A, C, E and K. When people are deficient in these minerals and vitamins, they often have metabolic problems. This reiterates Cleavers’ alternative mechanism of drawing nutrients into the tissues and promoting the removal of toxins and waste. Cleavers’ high mineral content also promotes strong immunity, which is why it’s included in our Kick-Ass Immune formula.
Cleavers are one of the first vegetables to emerge in spring, which is the best time to use them for food. Once Cleavers grows and develops its “hooks” on its leaves, it becomes less tasty. Once the Cleavers plant has developed, you can use it as a pressed juice, tea or tincture. When making tea, make sure the water doesn’t get too hot! Hot water can ruin some components of the plant. You can juice it at any time (a great way to get a quick boost of chlorophyll). With the baby greens you can make pesto, chimichurri, as part of a quiche or mixed with your salad.
Once again, a plant friend considered a ‘weed’ has endless benefits. Look for Cleavers the next time you explore the woods, or you can easily find it in our blends: Lymph Mover, Respiratory Strength, Kidney Strength Daily Support, Deep Cleanse Reset & Flourish, Daily Immune Builder or Urinary Strength Active Support!
Gem Boehm-Reifenkugel (she/her) is an herbalist on our customer journey and social outreach team. Gem has been self-educating about nutrition for years and recently received a certificate in medical herbalism from the Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism. She strives to make herbs accessible to everyone and spread knowledge about our powerful plant allies to the community.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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