Rubiaceae
Cleavers
Galium aparine
✓ Generally Safe
Safe in Pregnancy
Native to: Europe, North America, Asia
Also known as: Sticky Willy, Goosegrass, Sticky Jack, Catchweed
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
LeafStem
Therapeutic Uses
Lymphatic congestion, swollen lymph nodes, urinary tract infections, cystitis, skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis — alterative), tonsillitis, glandular fever. Premier lymphatic herb in Western herbalism.
Herbal Actions
Lymphagogue, diuretic, alterative, anti-inflammatory, astringent, mild laxative
Active Constituents
Iridoid glycosides (asperuloside), tannins, flavonoids, organic acids (citric, gallotannic), coumarins
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | Large handful fresh herb per 500ml cold water, infuse 8 hours (cold infusion), drink throughout day |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:3, 25% ethanol, fresh plant), 3x daily |
| Notes | Fresh plant far superior to dried — volatile constituents lost on drying. Cold infusion of fresh herb is traditional and most effective. Juice of fresh herb: 3 tbsp 3x daily. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Safe in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid with diuretic medications (additive effect). Large doses may cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
Side Effects: Contact dermatitis from sticky trichomes. Mild laxative effect. Generally very well tolerated.