🌿 Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Also known as: Goosegrass • Stickyweed • Catchweed • Grip Grass
Family: Rubiaceae (Coffee family)
Origin: Native to Europe and North America; grows wild in cool, moist meadows and hedgerows
Parts used: Aerial parts (leaf, stem, and flower)
Primary use: Internal & External

✨ Description

Cooling, cleansing, and deeply restorative, Cleavers is nature’s gentle detoxifier — a spring herb renowned for purifying the lymphatic system, skin, and urinary tract.

Recognized by its clinging leaves that “cleave” to everything they touch, Cleavers energetically represents connection and release — reminding the body to let go of what no longer serves it.
Traditionally, it has been used to clear stagnant fluids, reduce puffiness, soothe inflammation, and promote radiant skin from within.

This humble herb is a cornerstone of spring detox formulas and a favorite among herbalists for cleansing the lymph, kidneys, and complexion in one smooth flow.

🍵 Dried Herb Uses

As a lymphatic cleanser and gentle diuretic:

Lymphatic Detox: Encourages drainage of excess fluids and waste from the body.
Skin Support: Helps clear acne, eczema, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Urinary Health: Promotes kidney and bladder function, easing mild infections or water retention.
Anti-Inflammatory: Calms swelling in tissues and joints.
Spring Cleanse Support: Ideal in seasonal detox blends for renewal and balance.

Directions (Internal Use):
Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried Cleavers in 8 oz of hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Drink 1–2 cups daily for gentle cleansing and hydration.
Pairs beautifully with Chickweed, Dandelion, or Burdock Root for a complete detox blend.

💧 External Uses

Use as a cool compress or skin rinse for acne, rashes, or swollen lymph nodes.
Add to baths or steams to soothe the skin and promote detox through the pores.
Combine with Witch Hazel or Aloe Vera for a refreshing natural toner.

🔮 Metaphysical & Energetic Uses

Release & Renewal: Symbolizes letting go — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Connection & Flow: Enhances energetic flow and clears blockages in the subtle body.
Protection & Healing: Associated with self-cleansing and adaptability.

Affirmation:

“I release all that is stagnant — my body and spirit flow freely and with ease.”

🌿 Pairing Suggestions

Chickweed or Dandelion Leaf – for deep skin and liver cleansing.
Burdock Root or Nettle Leaf – for circulation and nourishment.
Calendula or Red Clover – for glowing, healthy skin.
Lemon Balm or Peppermint – for freshness and flavor balance.

🌼 Harvest & Sourcing

Our Cleavers is wild-harvested in early spring, when its sticky stems are lush and full of vitality.
The herb is air-dried and hand-cut, preserving its bright green color, grassy aroma, and silky touch.
Harvesting Cleavers at its peak ensures maximum potency for lymphatic and skin-cleansing support.

⚖️ Energetics & Taste

Taste: Fresh, green, and mildly sweet-grassy.
Energetic profile: Cooling, cleansing, and moistening.
Pairs well with: Chickweed, Dandelion, and Burdock.

⚠️ Warnings

Generally safe for regular use.
Because of its strong diuretic action, drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Avoid if experiencing severe kidney inflammation without professional guidance.

🌻 A Note from the Herbalist

Cleavers teaches the art of gentle release — how to cleanse without depletion and flow without force.
It’s the spring whisper of renewal: soft, persistent, and full of green vitality.
With regular use, it refreshes the lymph, clarifies the skin, and restores movement to both body and spirit.