Cleavers

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Photo copyright Martin Wall

 

Related Topics

See also:

• Drug interactions

Common names:

• Bedstraw
• Goose grass

Botanical Names

Botanical name:

• Galium aparine

Parts used and where grown

Cleavers grow in wet areas of Britain, Europe, Asia, and North America. Small prickles grow on the leaves of cleavers, causing it to have a sticky feeling and giving it its name. The leaves and flowers of cleavers are used medicinally.

Health Concerns

 

Cleavers has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):

Rating	Health Concerns
	Edema
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. An herb is primarily supported by traditional use, or the herb or supplement has little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

Traditional Use

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Cleavers is one of numerous plants considered in ancient times to act as a diuretic.¹ It was therefore used to relieve edema and to promote urine formation during bladder infections. It has also been used by people with lymph swellings, jaundice, and wounds.

Active Constituents

Active constituents

Galiosin, an anthraquinone glycoside, other glycosides, tannins, and flavonoids may be the major constituents of cleavers. Little research has been conducted on this plant, but preliminary lab experiments suggest it may have antispasmodic activity.²

Dosage

How much is usually taken?

Cleavers tincture and tea are most widely recommended by herbal practitioners. Tincture (1/2-1 teaspoon or 3-5 ml) can be taken three times per day. Tea is made by steeping 2-3 teaspoons (10-15 grams) of the herb in 1 cup (250 ml) of hot water for ten to fifteen minutes. People can drink three or more cups per day.

Side Effects

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Cleavers has no known side effects and is thought to be safe for use by children and pregnant or nursing women.

Are there any drug interactions?

Certain medicines may interact with cleavers. Refer to drug interactions for a list of those medicines.

References

1. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. London: Viking Arkana, 1991, 493-4.
2. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. London: Viking Arkana, 1991, 493-4.

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Last Review: 09-01-2007

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.

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