Cleavers

Common names: Bedstraw, Goose grass

Botanical name: Galium aparine

Photo

© Martin Wall

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.

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

Science Ratings Health Concerns
1Star

Edema
3Stars Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
2Stars Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
1Star For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.

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

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

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.

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.