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Cleavers Herb Benefits

Cleavers Herb (Galium Aparine) is an herb that is known to grow through the United States and in several European and Asian countries. It is an annual plant that has a tendency to be weed like and can be aggressive to its environment. It has been used for centuries dated back to ancient Greece.

  1. Benefits

    • Cleavers herb has been used in a variety of ways. It was theorized that in ancient times it was used as a love tonic. Though that may seem unlikely, there are more realistic uses for this herb. Some have used it as a topical agent for skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, and insect bites as it soothes itchy skin. It is most commonly used as a tincture for detoxifying the lymphatic system. Also good for treating urinary tract infections. Some have prepared it like spinach and ate it as an appetite suppressant for obesity. It can be used as a drink for detoxification, prepared like a tea it is high in vitamin C which boosts the immune system. The seed can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute. The roots are used as a red or pink dye.

    Side Effects

    • There are no known side effects. It is said to be safe for pregnant and nursing women as well as children.

    Identification

    • An annual plant that has weak square stems that are hairy at the joints, along the stems and on the leaves. The leaves are long and narrow approximately one to two inches long and about two inches in breadth. The flowers are small, white and scattered. Commonly found in cultivated areas, moist thickets and around river banks. They can be found in six to eight whorls and tend to flower in June. A common attribute is that it clings to clothing, fur, shoes and anything else it comes into contact with.

    Preparations

    • As a tea: Put 3 tablespoons of Cleavers herb fresh or dried to 1 pint of boiling water and steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Take one spoonful about 5 to10 times a day for optimal results. The best way to use this herb is to buy it from a licensed herbalist.

    Warning

    • The FDA does not support any of the aforementioned information. It is only to be labeled as a nutritional supplement only. As with any other heath care regimen, always discuss your options with a qualified health professional, physician or herbalist before trying any treatments on your own.

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