Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Traditional Uses, Benefits & Safety Notes
Overview
Cleavers is a gentle yet powerful herb traditionally used to support the lymphatic system, urinary health, and skin. Known for its cooling and cleansing qualities, it has been used for centuries in Western herbalism as a spring tonic and internal purifier.
Medicinal Benefits of Cleavers
1. Lymphatic System Support
Cleavers is best known as a lymphatic tonic, helping to:
Encourage healthy lymph flow
Reduce lymphatic stagnation
Support swollen glands and lymph congestion
This makes it especially useful during seasonal transitions, detox protocols, or periods of immune stress.
2. Gentle Detoxification
Cleavers supports the body’s natural elimination processes by:
Promoting the movement of metabolic waste
Supporting mild detoxification without harsh stimulation
Unlike stronger cleansing herbs, cleavers works slowly and gently, making it suitable for sensitive individuals.
3. Urinary & Kidney Support
Cleavers acts as a mild diuretic, traditionally used to:
Support healthy urine flow
Assist the kidneys in flushing waste
Help reduce water retention
It is often used for mild urinary discomfort or sluggish urinary elimination.
4. Skin Health (Internal Support)
Because of its lymphatic and detoxifying actions, cleavers is commonly used for:
Acne and congested skin
Eczema and inflammatory skin conditions
General skin clarity from within
Herbalists often describe cleavers as helping the body “clear what it no longer needs.”
5. Cooling & Soothing Properties
Cleavers has a naturally cooling energy, making it beneficial for:
Heat-related inflammation
Overactive or irritated systems
Conditions that feel “hot, swollen, or inflamed”
6. Immune System Support
By supporting lymphatic circulation and waste removal, cleavers indirectly:
Supports immune function
Helps the body respond more efficiently to immune challenges
Contraindications & Safety Considerations
Cleavers is considered a very safe and gentle herb, but the following points should be noted:
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Limited clinical data is available
Traditionally considered mild, but best avoided unless guided by a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider
Diuretic Medications
Because cleavers has mild diuretic effects, use with caution if taking:
Prescription diuretics
Medications that affect fluid or electrolyte balance
Kidney Conditions
Those with severe kidney disease should consult a healthcare provider before use
Allergic Sensitivity
Rare, but possible in individuals sensitive to plants in the Rubiaceae family
Discontinue use if irritation or allergic reaction occurs
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. By purchasing, buyer agrees that they are 18 years or older and are sufficiently educated to use this product in a safe and responsible manner. Buyer agrees to release from liability and hold Grounded Remedies by Phoenix LLC forever harmless in the event of personal injury or harm to self or others, health consequences, accidents, or any other negative consequences resulting from the purchase or ingestion of this product.
