Celtic folklore speaks of cleavers as the herb that brings beauty to those who drink its infusion! This is backed by the cleansing properties of cleavers, especially on the lymphatic system...
Known scientifically as Galium aparine, cleavers is a plant that has woven itself into the fabric of traditional medicine, folklore, and herbal practices for centuries!
The Folklore and History of Cleavers
Most of us remember throwing some cleavers on each other during playtime at school, laughing as we all tried to peel the sticky weed off the back of our school uniforms. Cleavers, with its sticky, clinging nature, has earned various charming nicknames over the years, such as goosegrass, catchweed, and sticky willy. Folklore tells us that cleavers were once used by farmers to stuff mattresses due to their soft yet firm structure, providing a cosy bed while keeping pests away. This practical use hints at the plant’s ancient relationship with humans, where it served not only as a comfort but also as a protector.
In medieval times, cleavers were believed to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. People would hang bundles of cleavers above their doors or place them under their pillows for protection and to invite good dreams. The plant’s natural ability to cling was thought to symbolise its protective embrace, catching and holding onto negative influences to keep them at bay!
Traditional Uses of Cleavers
Cleavers is known as the herb for lymphatic cleansing. Throughout history, cleavers have been valued for its medicinal properties. Ancient Greek and Roman physicians documented its use as a remedy for various ailments. Cleavers were often used as a diuretic to treat urinary problems and to cleanse the kidneys. Herbalists also us it to support the lymphatic system, aiding in detoxification and reducing swelling.
The plant’s tender shoots were sometimes used as a vegetable in the spring, providing nourishment after long winters. The fresh juice of cleavers was considered a tonic, rejuvenating the body and supporting overall health.
Herbal Benefits of Cleavers
Here are some of the key benefits:
1. Lymphatic Support: Cleavers is renowned for its ability to support the lymphatic system. By promoting lymphatic drainage, cleavers help reduce swollen lymph nodes and assist the body in removing toxins.
2. Skin Health: The cooling and soothing properties of cleavers make it an excellent remedy for skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and minor wounds. A poultice made from the plant can be applied to the skin to ease inflammation and promote healing.
3. Urinary Health: As a natural diuretic, cleavers help flush out the urinary tract, making it beneficial for treating urinary tract infections and preventing kidney stones.
4. Digestive Aid: Cleavers can stimulate digestion and alleviate issues such as indigestion and bloating. Drinking cleavers tea can provide gentle relief and support digestive health.
5. Detoxification: The detoxifying properties of cleavers make it a valuable herb for cleansing the body. It can be used as part of a detox regimen to support liver function and overall detoxification processes.
How to Use Cleavers
Incorporating cleavers into your wellness routine can be both simple and rewarding. Here are a few ways to use this versatile herb:
-Tea: Infuse fresh or dried cleavers in hot water to make a refreshing and health-boosting tea. Drink it regularly to support lymphatic and urinary health.
-Tincture: A cleavers tincture can be taken in small doses to enjoy its detoxifying and immune-supporting benefits.
-Poultice: Crush fresh cleavers and apply them directly to the skin to soothe inflammation and promote healing.
-Juice: If you have access to fresh cleavers, juicing them can provide a potent tonic to invigorate your system.
My favourite way to take cleavers is by making a delicious and refreshing drink by infusing some freshly gathered and washed cleavers in some water, alongside some cucumber and lemon/lime slices. This is such a cooling and rejuvenating drink that is great for detoxing the body while supporting its electrolyte content too. Remember to keep it in the fridge to stay nice and cool!
As we reconnect with the gifts of nature, cleavers stand out as a timeless ally. Whether you’re looking to support your lymphatic system, enhance your skin health, or simply enjoy a nourishing cup of herbal tea, cleavers offer a gentle yet powerful way to reconnect with nature’s rhythms and its healing medicine!