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Cleavers (Galium aparine)

Proposed Uses: Bladder Infections; Fluid Retention; Swollen Glands

Cleavers is primarily used for urinary problems and fluid retention, on the basis of its apparent diuretic effects. It has also been recommended for enlarged lymph nodes, tonsillitis, hepatitis, and snake bites.

Cleavers is often included in herbal mixtures offered for the treatment of kidney and bladder problems, including bladder infections, kidney stones, and prostatitis. It is also said to help “cleanse” the lymph system. However, there has not been any scientific evaluation of the herb.

Dosage
A typical recommended dose of cleavers is one cup of tea three times daily, made by steeping 10–15 grams of the herb in a cup of hot water.

Safety Issues
Cleavers has not undergone any meaningful safety testing. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or people with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.

In case cleavers does in fact have diuretic effects as claimed, people taking the medication lithium should use cleavers only under the supervision of a physician, as dehydration can be dangerous with this medication.

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