Cleavers Extract

Description

We prepare Cleavers extract from the flowering herb of fresh (never dried) Galium aparine plants grown on our own herb farm in Bushyhead Oklahoma. This annual grows quickly during cool seasons, and it is considered a common weed.

The primary benefits of cleavers revolve around this herb’s ability to tone the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is responsible for the drainage and cleansing of fluid from cells, tissue, and organs, as well as for part of the body’s natural anti-microbial activity, which occurs in the lymphatic glands. Therefore, lymphatic well-being is a foundation for overall well-being. Drinking a cup of cleavers herb tea, blended with calendula or echinacea, is a perfect remedy for swollen glands, tonsillitis, or any other ailment that would benefit from lymphatic drainage support like respiratory infections. Cleavers have also been traditionally used as a lymphatic tonic to alleviate ulcers and tumors, possibly because of the stimulation of fluid drainage.

Cleavers, (Galium aparine) as mentioned above, supports the movement of fluids in the body and can be considered anywhere there is stagnation or lack of drainage. It is useful for urinary tract infection, skin eruptions, and supports liver health.

Cleavers extract is also considered an alterative because they assist with lymphatic drainage. They are traditionally used in any instance where waste is being excreted (especially for hormonal issues, drug and pharmaceutical use, eczema, and psoriasis, etc).

Cleavers have cooling properties.
The cooling property of Cleavers makes it useful in reducing fevers and preventing heat strokes. It is best to use in the summer season to prevent the harmful effects of the scorching sun.

Cleavers extract is considered anti-microbial.

Cleavers extract is very effective in lowering blood pressure as it helps in thinning the blood. Thinning the blood allows more efficient blood circulation which in turn regulates blood pressure.*

Cleavers also have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Its healing compounds include glycoside asperuloside, gallotannic and citric acids, flavonoids, and fatty acids.

Much scientific research is being done on the herb since it is of great interest to the medical field.

Some studies show that a properly functioning lymph system can also play a key role in helping overweight women regain their proper weight and in relieving pain throughout the body. And in that vein, the lymph system responds well to tart fruits and veggies, so eating cranberries and fruits or herbs high in flavonoids, malic acids, and citric acids (like wood sorrel, spinach, apples, tamarinds) can be helpful in supporting the lymph system.

Other “immune-support” herbs like astragalus, goldenseal, and poke root have been identified as powerful lymph system supporters. Poke should be used with caution and with the support of your herbalist.

* If you are on blood thinning medications, you should not use cleaver as it will further thin your blood and cause greater health risks.

References:

• Hoffmann, David. “The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies.” (Element Books, 1996).