Cleavers's therapeutic uses
Cleavers, scientifically known as Galium aparine, is a natural plant recognized for its potential therapeutic uses, primarily associated with urinary and lymphatic health. Traditionally, the leaves and flowers have been utilized for their diuretic properties, making them popular for addressing bladder infections and fluid retention. Additionally, cleavers may support the immune system by aiding in the reduction of swollen lymph nodes and enhancing lymph flow. Other proposed uses include treating skin conditions such as acne and eczema, as well as gastrointestinal support. The leaves of the plant can also be brewed as a tea, with a typical dosage being one cup three times daily. Although cleavers is praised for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, it is important to note that scientific research validating these claims is limited. Safety concerns have not been thoroughly investigated, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals with severe liver or kidney issues. As with any herbal remedy, consulting a healthcare professional before use is advisable to ensure safety and efficacy.
Cleavers's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: None
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Bladder infection, fluid retention, swollen glands, lymphatic system support, skin conditions, antioxidants, traditional uses
Overview
The leaves of the cleavers plant (Galium aparine) have small, hooked hairs that cause them to cleave to fingers when touched, hence the name. The whole leaf has been used as a flavoring in soups and stews. Roasted seeds are used as a coffee substitute. The leaves and flowers are used medicinally. Cleavers is primarily used for urinary problems and fluid retention because of its diuretic (urine-stimulating) effects. It has also been recommended for enlarged lymph nodes, skin conditions, tonsillitis, hepatitis, and snake bites.
Therapeutic Dosages
A typical recommended dose of cleavers is one cup of tea three times daily, made by steeping 10 to 15 grams of the herb in a cup of hot water.
Therapeutic Uses
Cleavers is often included in herbal mixtures offered to treat kidney and bladder problems, including bladder infections, kidney stones, and prostatitis. It is also said to help cleanse the lymph system, reduce swelling and congestion, and encourage lymph flow. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties may help skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and minor wounds. Cleavers is an antioxidant which protects against free radicals that cause chronic conditions. Finally, cleavers has been used in traditional medicine for aiding digestion. However, there has not been any meaningful scientific evaluation of the herb. Even animal and test-tube studies are essentially lacking.
Safety Issues
Cleavers has not undergone sufficient meaningful safety testing. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, and people with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established. Just in case cleavers has the diuretic effects that are claimed, people taking the medication lithium should use cleavers only under the supervision of a physician because dehydration can be dangerous with this medication.
Bibliography
"Cleavers – Health Information Library." PeaceHealth, 23 May 2015, www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-2070002. Accessed 17 Sept. 2024.
Climan, Anastasia. "Cleaver and Its Effect on Cancer, Psoriasis, and More." Verywell Health, 20 Mar. 2024, www.verywellhealth.com/cleavers-health-benefits-5084341. Accessed 17 Sept. 2024.
Ilina, Tetiana, et al. "Immunomodulatory Activity and Phytochemical Profile of Infusions from Cleavers Herb." Molecules, vol. 25, no. 16, 2020, p. 3721, doi:10.3390/molecules25163721.
Pyevich, D., and M. P. Bogenschutz. "Herbal Diuretics and Lithium Toxicity." American Journal of Psychiatry, vol. 158, 2001, p. 1329.